Mystikal is stepping back into the limelight after being released from prison … taking the stage for his first big performance after spending 18 months behind bars on rape charges.
The rapper made a surprise appearance Saturday night at Funk Fest in Orlando in his first major gig since getting out of prison … and the crowd went wild, welcoming him back with open arms!
Mystikal got a special introduction from Doug E. Fresh … and then launched into his throwback hits, performing “Move B*tch” and “Shake Ya A**” in front of thousands of screaming fans.
It’s a triumphant return to the spotlight for Mystikal … Funk Fest is a huge two-day festival, with headlining performances from T.I., Erykah Badu, Jeezy and Plies.
We broke the story … Mystikal was released from a Louisiana prison back in February once he was finally able to scrape together $3 million for his bond. The money came from an advance for a new recording deal, plus fund raised by Mystikal’s friends and family.
Mystikal snapped a pic with his lawyers on his way out and said he was thankful for the opportunity to get back to being a father and working on his music.
Mystikal was hyped up after his set … thanking his fans for the love and reflecting on his long road back to the top.