50 cent biography.com

Who Is 50 Cent?

Curtis Jackson, known as 50 Cent, is a hip hop artist and businessman who became famous for his streetwise raps and rags-to-riches life story. After an early life of crime, drugs and violence, he turned to rap, rocketing to stardom with the album Get Rich or Die Tryin' in 2003. One of the leading figures in early 21st-century "gangsta" rap, with side projects including the hip hop group G-Unit, investments in soda water companies and video games, 50 Cent has since branched out to become an actor and businessman. His career has been littered with feuds with other rappers, arrests and legal and financial difficulties, while his recent recording output has been sporadic.

50 Cent was born Curtis James Jackson III on July 6, 1975, in the borough of Queens in New York City. He was raised by a single mother in the neighborhood of Jamaica. His mom worked as a drug dealer and died in an unexplained fire when Jackson was only eight years old; after her death, he was raised by his grandmother.

Jackson had boyhood aspirations to be a boxer, and fought at the junior level, but began selling drugs when he was 12. At the age of 19, an undercover police officer arrested Jackson for selling four vials of cocaine and when his home was raided three weeks later, police found crack and heroin. Sentenced to three-to-nine years, he instead went to a boot camp and got his GED. At this time, he was already rapping and took on the name 50 Cent, which was the original moniker of a Brooklyn crook from the 1980s.

Hip Hop Beginnings

In 2000, Jackson was the victim of a severe shooting incident that left him with multiple injuries. He returned to music after his recovery and made several low-budget recordings with his friends Lloyd Banks and Tony Yayo, as a crew called G-Unit. Their efforts came to the attention of Eminem and Dr. Dre , who heard 50 Cent's "Guess Who’s Back?" mixtape in 2002, and signed him jointly to their labels, Shady Records and Aftermath Entertainment.

'Get Rich or Die Tryin''

50 Cent's debut album, Get Rich or Die Tryin' , was produced by Eminem and Dre. It was a massive commercial success that eventually sold 9 million units. Its gritty singles, including "Wanksta" and "In Da Club," were underpinned by strong hooks that helped turn them into crossover pop hits. His personal appearance – muscled and tattooed, wearing a bulletproof vest and toting a handgun – was also a strong factor in his appeal, as was the fact that his lyrics were based on real-life experiences, in a game where most rappers' boasts are idle. “His rhymes are average, but his lisp, his exaggerated delivery and the beats backing him push this collection over the edge,” raved the Los Angeles Times .

'The Massacre' and Other Releases

Get Rich or Die Tryin' was followed in 2005 by another hit album, The Massacre , on which Jackson continued to rap about drugs, crime and sex on tracks like "Candy Shop" and "Just a Lil Bit." He started his own label under the Interscope umbrella, signing Lloyd Banks and Young Buck, and incorporating them into the G-Unit group on the 2004 album Beg for Mercy , which sold more than 5 million copies worldwide.

Subsequent 50 Cent releases, including Curtis in 2007 and Before I Self-Destruct in 2009, achieved only modest sales. But by then 50 Cent's personal history as a reformed criminal and a survivor of drugs, violence and poverty, had secured his position as an influential figure in hip hop culture.

Jackson maintained a presence in the industry with the release of the album Animal Ambition in 2014, although reviews weren’t particularly warm and it sold just over 100,000 copies – a far cry from his glory days. Ongoing feuds with Ja Rule, Rick Ross and The Game also took his eyes off the prize.

Business Interests and Children

Following in the footsteps of hip hop moguls such as Dre and Jay Z, Jackson successfully expanded his brand into other markets. He promoted and invested in Vitaminwater, a partnership that reportedly netted him $100 million when the company was sold to Coca-Cola in 2007, and also founded the successful headphones line SMS Audio.

Jackson has two sons, Marquise and Sire, with two different mothers.

'Power' and Other Screen Roles

Jackson has also enjoyed success with his forays into film and television. Since 2014, he has served as an executive producer and supporting player in the crime drama Power. Jackson also landed a prominent role alongside Sylvester Stallone in 2013's Escape Plan (and its two sequels) and appeared in the films Spy (2015), Southpaw (2015) and Den of Thieves (2018).

Filing for Bankruptcy to Starting Over Again

Jackson's legal and financial problems began to mount when he was sued by Lastonia Leviston, a girlfriend of Ross, for releasing a sex tape online without her permission. A jury found Jackson liable for $7 million in damages in July 2015. That and another case relating to the headphone company Sleek Audio prompted the rapper-businessman to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.

In 2016, Jackson was ordered by the Bankruptcy Court to pay his creditors $23 million over five years, but he paid it off after only months, helped by a settlement in his favor from a legal malpractice case. That same year, he also finally sold his lavish Connecticut mansion in Farmington that had been on the market for years for a modest price of $8 million. He had originally purchased the home from Mike Tyson in 2003.

QUICK FACTS

• Name: Curtis James
• Birth Year: 1975
• Birth date: July 6, 1975
• Birth State: New York
• Birth City: New York
• Birth Country: United States
• Gender: Male
• Best Known For: Curtis Jackson, known as 50 Cent, is a hip hop artist and business mogul who soared to fame with his 2003 debut album 'Get Rich or Die Tryin.''
• Astrological Sign: Cancer
• Interesting Facts
• Hip hop superstar 50 Cent credits his unique style of speaking and rapping to a shooting injury from 2000 that permanently damaged his jaw and tongue.

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CITATION INFORMATION

• Article Title: 50 Cent Biography
• Author: Biography.com Editors
• Website Name: The Biography.com website
• Url: https://www.biography.com/musicians/50-cent
• Access Date:
• Publisher: A&E; Television Networks
• Last Updated: March 26, 2021
• Original Published Date: April 3, 2014
• I come from the bottom and I have risen up and I have changed but I have never forgotten.

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50 Cent Biography

July 6, 1976 • Queens, New York

Rap musician

The rapper known as 50 Cent is living proof that hip-hop is as much a lifestyle as it is a type of music. He was a star in the underground mix-tape circuit for several years, but the rest of the world did not hear about him until 2002, when his first single, "Wanksta," appeared on the soundtrack of the film 8 Mile. In 2003, 50 Cent's debut album Get Rich or Die Tryin', topped the charts and broke sales records. As a result, the young rapper was constantly in the press, and his life became an open book. This was not a "studio gangsta," meaning a musician who makes up stories about drugs, violence, and murder in order to sell records; 50 Cent was the real deal. He grew up on the streets of New York, survived being shot at nine times, and used those experiences to fuel his songs. As a result, critics noted that his music had a gritty edge, and they predicted that 50 Cent would be the next hip-hop heavyweight.

Life of a drug dealer

Born Curtis Jackson, 50 Cent grew up in South Jamaica, a neighborhood of Queens, which is a borough of New York City. It is a tough neighborhood, plagued by gang violence; it is also the birthplace of many rappers, including LL Cool J (1968–) and the female trio Salt N' Pepa. Fifty Cent was surrounded by violence from the day he was born. His mother, Sabrina Jackson, was only fifteen years old when he was born on July 6, 1976. She turned to dealing drugs in order to support her son, and eventually became one of the most feared drug dealers in Queens. Sabrina was killed mysteriously when her son was eight, perhaps the result of a drug war.

Fifty Cent was raised by his grandmother, whom he adored. However, because she had nine other children in her charge, the boy spent a good deal of time on the streets. By the time he was twelve, he was dealing crack, a strong form of cocaine that is smoked. As 50 Cent explained to Allison Samuels of Newsweek, he had to fend for himself because he did not want to burden his grandmother: "I didn't want to ask her for a pair of Air Jordans when I knew she couldn't afford them, so I began working to get my stuff and not stress her out."

"The bottom line is, the obstacles that you overcome are going to determine how great you are."

At age fifteen, 50 Cent bought his first gun, and by nineteen years old he was the neighborhood drug kingpin, bringing in about $150,000 a month. He had dropped out of high school and was spending most of his time in jail; 50 Cent was also listening to his favorite musicians, including KRS-1, Rakim, and Run-DMC, and trying his hand at writing his own rhymes. He dreamed about breaking into the music business but was not sure he should give it a try. When his son, Marquise, was born, 50 Cent knew it was time to make a change: he decided to stop dealing drugs and start making music.

Eminem: Unlikely Hip-Hop Hero

Eminem is one of the biggest superstars in the music business, but he is also one of the most controversial. His lyrics are full of profanity; his CDs are boycotted by women's organizations and gay and lesbian groups; and he makes news headlines because of his public rampages against his mother, his ex-wife, other musicians, and fans. On the other hand, Eminem, a white rapper from Detroit, Michigan, has an enormous number of steadfast followers. He also has been credited with infusing new life into a genre that some considered to be growing old and stale.

Eminem was born Marshall Mathers III in Kansas City, Missouri, on October 17, 1972. When he was young, he and his mother, Debbie Mathers-Briggs, divided their time between Missouri and Detroit, Michigan. When he was twelve, the family finally put down roots in the east side of Detroit. Because they were constantly moving, Mathers found it difficult to make friends, so he turned to television and comic books. He also started tuning in to rap music, and soon he was writing rhymes like his favorite musicians, LL Cool J and 2 Live Crew. By high school, Mathers was skipping most of his classes, and focusing his energies on his music. He failed the ninth grade, and ended up dropping out of Osbourne High School.

Mathers paid his dues over the next few years, releasing independent CDs until he was noticed by veteran rapper Dr. Dre. With Dr. Dre's help, the world was introduced to Marshall Mathers, also known as Eminem, also known as Slim Shady, the title of his 1998 debut CD. His songs were harsh, filled with references to rape, violence, and drug use. In particular, Mathers lashed out at his ex-wife, Kim, and his mother, whom he blamed for his hard childhood. Critics loved him or hated him, parents protested, but millions of people bought his music and attended his concerts.

The Slim Shady CD was followed by The Marshall Mathers LP (2000) and The Eminem Show (2002). Both sold millions of copies and earned several Grammy Awards. In 2003 The Eminem Show won the Grammy for Best Rap Album. That same year Mathers took home an Academy Award for Best Original Song for "Lose Yourself," which appeared on the soundtrack of the movie 8 Mile (2002). Mathers also starred in the film, playing Jimmy Smith, a would-be rapper who battles the streets of Detroit. Smith was a character that Eminem knew well since he moved from those same streets to become one of the most unlikely hip-hop heroes in music history.

Learns from the master

In 1996 a friend of 50 Cent's introduced him to one of his boyhood idols, Jam Master Jay (1965–2002), a member of the pioneer rap group Run-DMC. Jay was from the same neighborhood, and he saw a spark in the fledgling rapper. Soon, 50 Cent was studying with the seasoned musician. "He was really patient with me," 50 Cent told Josh Tyrangiel of Time. "I would come in with rhymes, almost free verse, and he explained that they had to fit 16 bars of music. Once he said it, I got it." In 1997 Jam Master Jay signed a production deal with 50 Cent and agreed to promote him. The songs 50 Cent produced were raw, and his lyrics were taken from his own life on the streets. As Evan Serpick of Entertainment Weekly wrote, "they reverberated with authenticity."

Fifty Cent quickly became a hit in the underground world of hip-hop. This means he was recording and releasing discs independent of any major record company. As a result, the big record labels started to take notice of the "street thug"-turned rapper. In 1999 Columbia Records signed a deal with 50 Cent and gave him a reported $65,000 advance. Jam Master Jay received $50,000, and lawyers took the rest, so, even though he was a bona fide musician with a record deal, 50 Cent had no money. He kept his "day job," which meant that he continued to sell drugs to make ends meet.

Once they had 50 Cent under contract, Columbia was not sure what to do with him. Tired of waiting to release his first legitimate CD, 50 Cent cut his own single called "How to Rob." The song was an attempt to get noticed by his label. As 50 Cent told Serpick, "I needed them to stop and look at me." "How to Rob" did get Columbia's attention, and everyone else's attention in the music world since it was filled with 50 Cent's plan to "rip off" every hip-hop star around. In his lyrics, 50 Cent warned, "I'll rob Boyz II Men like I'm Michael Bivens/Catch Tyson for half that cash, like Robin Givens." Columbia put 50 Cent's song on the soundtrack to the movie In Too Deep (1999), but did little else with their artist.

In May of 2000, 50 Cent's street life caught up with him. While sitting in a friend's car in front of his grandmother's house, another car pulled up, and the driver fired round after round into 50 Cent's body. All told, he was hit nine times, including a bullet to his hip, which shattered the bone, and a bullet to his head. Although 50 Cent survived, the close call was too much for Columbia Records, and the company dropped him from its label. Ever optimistic, the rapper returned to the mixed-tape circuit.

A fan in Slim Shady

In 2002, 50 Cent wrote "Wanksta," the song that would be his ticket to the big time. "Wanksta" was a bouncy party tune, but it was also a direct jab at 50 Cent's archenemy, rapper Ja Rule (1976–). The feud between the two musicians began in 1999, when Ja Rule was robbed and then accused 50 Cent of being involved in the incident. In the song, 50 Cent claims that his rival is merely a gangster wanna-be: "You say you a gangsta, but you never copped nothing'/You say you a wanksta and you need to stop frontin'."

Fifty Cent delivered "Wanksta," along with a few of his other songs, to Paul Rosenberg, manager of the hottest rapper of the moment, Eminem (1972–). Eminem immediately called 50 Cent and asked him to come to Los Angeles. In June of 2002, 50 Cent signed on the dotted line for a reported $1 million, and was the first rapper to be promoted by Shady/Aftermath Records, Eminem's personal record label. According to Serpick, it was a "match made in hip-hop heaven."

Unlike Columbia Records, Shady/Aftermath immediately put 50 Cent to work. Later in 2002, three of 50 Cent's songs, including "Wanksta," appeared on the soundtrack to 8 Mile, a movie loosely based on the life of Eminem. "Wanksta" received a lot of radio air-play, and listeners lined up to buy a CD by the new rapper. As a result, 50 Cent and Eminem went into the studio to work on 50 Cent's debut disc. Eminem produced several of the songs; other tracks were produced by hip-hop legend Dr. Dre (1965–). The CD, titled Get Rich or Die Tryin' , was released in February of 2003, and it immediately broke records. Just days after it debuted, it sold almost one million copies and made it to number-one on the Billboard charts.

Get Rich or Die Tryin'

Get Rich or Die Tryin' sounded like an anthem for 50 Cent's life. He took shots at other rappers in such songs as "U Not Like Me," where his target is Sean "P. Diddy" Combs (1971–), and he included dance cuts, like "In Da Club," which became an immediate hit single. However, as David Browne of Entertainment Weekly explained, 50 Cent spent most of Get Rich or Die Tryin' "riffing on his crime-ridden past."

By the end of 2003, Get Rich or Die Tryin' had sold more than 6.4 million copies, which made it the best-selling CD of the year. It was also recognized as the biggest number-one debut by a new artist on a major record label. Fifty Cent was nominated for five Grammy Awards (one of the highest achievements in the music industry) and won five World Music Awards. The secret to the CD's success, according to reviewer Ted Kessler, was that behind the clubby dance tunes there was a "cold-blooded seriousness to [50 Cent's] stories ... that set him apart." Critics also praised 50 Cent's gritty vocals and commented that his choir-boy smile and his tattooed, well-toned physique probably helped to boost sales, as well.

Member of Da Club

Following the triumph of Get Rich or Die Tryin', 50 Cent became a full-fledged member of the hip-hop club, and started to live the Hollywood lifestyle that goes with it. In October of 2003 the boy from South Jamaica purchased the house of ex-boxing champion Mike Tyson (1966–) for $4.1 million. In addition, since his "bad boy" days were not yet behind him, 50 Cent also purchased a fleet of SUVs, all of which were bulletproof. As he explained to Ebony, "No matter how successful you are, you've ... gotta take precautions." As added protection, 50 Cent wears a bullet proof vest every day, and insists that his son also wear one. Fifty Cent's fears are not unfounded. In 2002 his longtime friend and mentor Jam Master Jay was shot and killed in his recording studio in Queens, New York.

Fifty Cent does not seem to want to shake his gangster image, but he does intend to channel it into his music and into other projects: "50 Cent is a metaphor for change," 50 Cent explained to Zondra Hughes. In late 2003, 50 Cent and his group G-Unit, short for Guerilla Unit, released their first CD, called Beg for Mercy. At the same time, the rapper announced plans to write his autobiography. He was also considering some movie offers. As for the future, 50 Cent was realistic, but hopeful. As he told Serpick, "Trouble seems to find me, so I'm kinda anticipating not everything being beautiful, or going my way. But it feels like it is right now. So far, so good."

For More Information

Periodicals.

Browne, David. "Money Talks: It Ain't Nothing But a G Thing for Rapper 50 Cent, Who's Looking to Get Rich or Die Tryin' with the Help of Eminem." Entertainment Weekly (February 21, 2003): p. 148.

Brunner, Rob. "Cash of the Titans." Entertainment Weekly (May 30, 2003): pp. 26–29.

Drumming, Neil. "4 50 Cent: Rapper's Delight." Entertainment Weekly (December 26, 2003): p. 24.

Hughes, Zondra. "The 9 Lives of 50 Cent: Rap Star Survives Shootings, Stabbing and Death Threats." Ebony (August 2003): pp. 52–53.

Kessler, Ted. "Shady Business." New Statesman (March 31, 2003): p. 43.

Serpick, Evan. "The 50 Cents Piece." Entertainment Weekly (February 28, 2003): p. 42–44.

Tyrangiel, Josh. "Rap's Newest Target." Time (February 17, 2003): p. 68.

"Eminem Biography." Shady Soldiers Web site. http://www.shadysoldiers.com/info/biography.htm (accessed on June 27, 2004).

50 Cent Direct. http://50centdirect.com (accessed on June 27, 2004).

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50 Cent Biography

Birthday: July 6 , 1975 ( Cancer )

Born In: South Jamaica, New York, United States

50 Cent is an American rapper, record producer, businessman, and actor. After facing disappointment with his very first album which never saw the light of day, 50 Cent started his musical career with a series of hit mix tapes. A controversial yet popular figure in the Gangsta rap genre, 50 Cent’s criminal history has been a topic of discussion for many. Growing up in Queens, he had a rough childhood. He began selling drugs at a very young age. In the year 2000, he got shot nine times but managed to survive the attack. Taking it as a life lesson, 50 Cent started concentrating on his musical career, and his first claim to fame came in the form of ‘Get Rich or die Tryin.’ The album turned out to be a blockbuster and was certified 8× Platinum by ‘The Recording Industry Association of America’ (RIAA). He credits Eminem for his success, claiming that Eminem trusted him when nobody else did. He also says that he has been a huge admirer of the rapper. Eminem once said the troubles 50 Cent went through as a kid shows in his lyrics, and that his pain, horrors, and troubles would resonate with the listeners. Eminem’s prediction came true as 50 Cent went on to sell nearly 30 million copies of his records, and is the recipient of many music awards. Apart from music, he has a thriving career as an actor, and has rubbed shoulders with some of the biggest actors and directors in Hollywood. His business ventures have also been quite successful. Not surprisingly, 50 Cent is frequently listed among the richest rappers of our times.

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Nick Name: Interscope, Fiddy, Boo Boo

Girlfriend: Daphne Joy , Shaniqua Tompkins

Also Known As: Curtis James Jackson III

Age: 49 Years , 49 Year Old Males

mother: Sabrina Jackson

children: Marquise Jackson, Sire Jackson

Born Country: United States

Rappers American Men

Height: 6'0" (183 cm ), 6'0" Males

U.S. State: New Yorkers

Founder/Co-Founder: G-Unit Records, G-Unit Clothing Company, G-Unity Foundation Inc., G-Unit Books

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• 15 wins & 62 nominations total

• 2014–2020 • 44 eps

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• July 6 , 1975
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• Other works Single: "In Da Club".
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• Trivia His mother was killed at age 23, when he was just eight years old.
• Quotes The only thing that I'm scared of is not livin' up to the expectations of Dr. Dre and Eminem .
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50 Cent 4,047

About 50 cent.

Curtis James Jackson III (born July 6, 1975), better known by his stage name 50 Cent , is an American rapper, entrepreneur, investor, record producer, and actor.

After recording a never-released album with Columbia, 50 got on his grind and rose to fame via a string of well-received mixtapes, thus setting the template for rap stardom in the modern era.

50’s crowning success came in 2003 with the release of the album Get Rich or Die Tryin' which sold 872,000 copies in four days and was certified 8x platinum by the RIAA. Since that monster hit, he has continued to make music while also delving into movies, sports drinks, video games, mass charity campaigns, and more.

The moniker 50 Cent might seem like an unusual, downright humble name for a rapper, but it has nothing to do with the cash in Jackson’s pocket. He adopted the name after his criminal past as a drug dealer and a subsequent conviction. Trying to better himself, he saw “50 Cent” as a metaphor for change .

Still Will (Essential 5 EP - International Version)

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Discover 50 Cent, a talented artist captivating audiences with their unique sound. Explore their latest tracks, albums, and live performances. Stay updated on 50 Cent's tour dates, news, and more. Immerse yourself in the soulful melodies and powerful lyrics that make 50 Cent a standout in the music industry.

Back Down – Song and Lyrics by 50 Cent

Ayo Technology – Song and Lyrics by 50 Cent

Candy Shop – Song and Lyrics by 50 Cent

If I Can’t – Song and Lyrics by 50 Cent

Intro – Song and Lyrics by 50 Cent

This Is 50 – Song and Lyrics by 50 Cent

Crack a Bottle – Song and Lyrics by 50 Cent

Freestyle – Song and Lyrics by 50 Cent

You Don’t Know – Song and Lyrics by 50 Cent

Gatman and Robbin’ – Song and Lyrics by 50 Cent

U Not Like Me [Album Version (Explicit)] – Song and Lyrics by 50 Cent

Mujeres in the Club – Song and Lyrics by 50 Cent

The Cake – Song and Lyrics by 50 Cent

Hands Up – Song and Lyrics by 50 Cent

In My Hood – Song and Lyrics by 50 Cent

You a Shooter – Song and Lyrics by 50 Cent

Follow My Lead – Song and Lyrics by 50 Cent

Ski Mask Way – Song and Lyrics by 50 Cent

Things Change – Song and Lyrics by 50 Cent

Gangsta’S Delight – Song and Lyrics by 50 Cent

P.I.M.P. – Song and Lyrics by 50 Cent

My Gun Go Off – Song and Lyrics by 50 Cent

MJB Da MVP – Song and Lyrics by 50 Cent

Window Shopper – Song and Lyrics by 50 Cent

I Get Money – Song and Lyrics by 50 Cent

We All Die One Day – Song and Lyrics by 50 Cent

Just a Lil Bit – Song and Lyrics by 50 Cent

Piggy Bank – Song and Lyrics by 50 Cent

Bang Bang [#] – Song and Lyrics by 50 Cent

In da Club – Song and Lyrics by 50 Cent

Do You Think About Me – Song and Lyrics by 50 Cent

Talk About Me – Song and Lyrics by 50 Cent

Every Time I Come Around [Video] – Song and Lyrics by 50 Cent

You Already Know – Song and Lyrics by 50 Cent

Pearly Gates – Song and Lyrics by 50 Cent

What If – Song and Lyrics by 50 Cent

In Da Club – Song and Lyrics by 50 Cent

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50 Cent: The Life of a Hunted Man

It’s well past 4 a.m. and 50 Cent ‘s six bodyguards are out in the hallway of the hotel, lazily leaning against the wall or completely asleep. 50 is inside his room, still pulsing with energy. Three hours ago, he finished the biggest show of his career yet, a sold-out date for a crowd of 15,000 at Long Island’s Nassau Coliseum. When 50 left the venue, he was surrounded by a ring of bodyguards until he climbed into a bulletproof GMC Suburban. A convoy of nine trucks followed him three minutes down the road to this hotel. Now, as his crew prowls for groupies, 50 is keeping a roomful of friends in stitches, telling stories about his past with the same mix of he-didn’t-just-say-that humor and gruesome detail that has made him the most exciting new MC and the coolest new villain in hip-hop since the emergence of Eminem. $ Tonight he’ll hold court for three or four hours straight until it’s time to leave for a tour date in Baltimore. There’s a thin wife-beater covering his chiseled torso and a Yankees hat balanced at an angle atop the white do-rag on his head. His navy-blue bulletproof vest is there on the floor. On records, 50 projects a scary crack dealer, but among friends, the screw face drops. He’s animated, a street-corner shit-talker who knows where all the bodies are buried and knows no one can make him shut up. When he gets around to talking about his six-year-old son, Marquise, who appears in the ”Wanksta” video, his son’s mother pulls his picture out of her wallet. She calls him a hip-hop baby. ”One time he was watching TV with another little kid,” 50 says, ”and a person got shot and died. He said to the other kid, ‘That’s weak. My daddy got shot a lot of times. He didn’t die.”’ Everyone laughs. ”I had to tell him that was a special situation,” he says. ”You’re not supposed to get hit that many times and get away!”

Violence has been a constant in the life of twenty-six-year-old 50 Cent — government name Curtis Jackson, nickname Boo-Boo. His mother, a drug dealer, was killed when he was eight. At twelve, he became a dealer, and was nearly shot to death at twenty-four. His first hip-hop mentor, Jam Master Jay, was killed execution-style last year. Just four days before this very evening, an empty SUV owned by Busta Rhymes was hit with six bullets while parked in front of 50 Cent’s manager’s office. And right now, there are people who want 50 dead.

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Some have suggested that it’s other rappers who are trying to kill him, but 50 says hatred from his old competitors in crack dealing has multiplied because of his fame. “This ain’t no rap war,” he says. “This have nothin’ to do with no rappers. The gangsters don’t like that I do whatever the fuck I wanna do. I’m movin around, I’m all over the country, I’m makin’ money, I’m a motherfuckin’ star. That bothers a nigga. The people that dislike me have nothin’ to lose. I’m from the bottom. They’re uneasy about still bein’ on the bottom.”

50 gets through his days in bulletproof trucks, walking with four to six bodyguards just inches away, ushering him briskly through streets and doors, but his body language and demeanor show him unmoved by the threats on his life. He never refuses to stop for an autograph or a photo request, even when it exposes him to danger. Is he worried about his grandparents, who still live in Queens, New York, in the house where he grew up? He says his reputation is enough to protect them. “They [his would-be killers] know how I am. Anything go on around there, they need to move everything they love. They mammy, they pappy, they kids, all that shit. That’d start some real nasty shit. And they don’t wanna go through that.” He seems confident he won’t be killed, unperturbed by being hunted. “It don’t matter to me,” he says. “That shit is not important when you got finances. Do I look uneasy to you?”

He does not. In this hotel room, he’s boisterous, arrogant, secure in his own skin and having fun. The man from the gutter in Queens who nearly ended up in prison or dead is the biggest new star of the year. His gory, brilliant major-label debut, Get Rich or Die Tryin’, sold 2.1 million copies in its first three weeks. Nearly all hip-hop fans know the broad outline of 50’s life story: the ghetto-celeb crack dealer who escaped the drug game by thrusting himself into hip-hop, only to have his enemies follow him into his new life. One day in 2000, just months away from the release of his first album, he was shot nine times. His album was shelved, but 50 became a street legend on the strength of underground mix-tape hits (which are now collected on Guess Who’s Back?). Last year, Eminem and Dr. Dre signed him to a joint label deal, and Em featured 50’s Ja Rule dis, “Wanksta,” on the soundtrack to 8 Mile. Dr. Dre produced Get Rich’s first single, “In Da Club,” and 50 went platinum in just over a week. “As soon as he walked in the studio, he picked up a pen, and we were done in an hour,” says Dre. “We just made some shit we wanted to hear.”

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Part of 50’s success is his unique voice, with a slur that’s the result of the hole in his jaw from a bullet to the face. But a bigger part is his credibility. When he talks about drugs and guns and death, you know he’s speaking from experience. “If he says he’s gonna pop you, you think he might,” says Eminem. “Kids wanna see a guy that got shot that many times and lived. There’s a whole mystique about him, but at the same time, the same kids that are goin’ to the shows are a little bit intimidated by him. Maybe not all, but most. He’s definitely out there. And that’s me sayin’ that.”

“I think kids like me like the fuckin’ bad guy in a film,” 50 says. “People love the bad guy. I watch movies all the time and root for the bad guy and turn it off before it ends because the bad guy dies. It’s cinematic law: The bad guy has to die. But sometimes the bad guy gets a record deal and becomes a superstar like 50.”

CURTIS JACKSON WAS BORN JULY 6TH, 1976, on the south side of Jamaica, Queens, a rugged, drug-infested strip. Nearby residents describe it as the main arena for all the up-and-coming crack dealers. “That was their playground,” says one. “That’s where they got their stripes. A lot of niggas dumped bodies on that side of town.” Young Curtis never knew his father, and doesn’t want to now. “Let’s give him a warning in this article,” he says. “Don’t you even dare crawl your ass out this way. I don’t wanna know the nigga.” 50’s mother, Sabrina Jackson, was only fifteen years old when he was born and wasn’t around very long. She dealt cocaine. “My moms was hard,” 50 says. “She’s real worse than me. She wasn’t really feminine like that. My moms was tough-tough, like man-tough.”

Curtis spent most of his time with his grandparents, because his mom was out working. “She used to substitute finances for time,” 50 remembers. “Every time I seen her, it was somethin’ new for me. Christmas every day. She put jewelry on me early.”

When Curtis was eight, someone went home with Sabrina, put something in her drink that left her unconscious, closed the windows, turned on the gas and left her for dead. She was found a few days later. “Had to be something to do with the drugs,” 50 says. “Her body was all fucked up.” She was twenty-three.

He moved in permanently with his grandparents. They tried to steer him away from the street, but he was Sabrina’s boy and thus able to hang out with the older guys in the neighborhood. When he was twelve, those guys gave him some cocaine to sell. “They knew nobody was there for me, so they gave me a little three-and-a-half grams and said, ‘Here, start hustling,’” he says. “The other kids my age wouldn’t even know what to do if you gave ’em a scale and bakin’ soda and a pot to cook [crack] up.” Of course, at twelve he could hustle only between three and six in the afternoon, when his grandmother thought he was in an after-school program. “I did things in the street, then I was able to adjust and leave that at my doorstep. Once I get in the house, I’m my grandmother’s baby. But once I’m outside, I do whatever I gotta do to get by.” He can still flip that switch between tough and sweet whenever he likes, moving in a heartbeat from the charm of a soft-spoken choirboy to a teeth-clenched icy grill that would make you throw your wallet at him in fear. He’s clear about when and where to employ each one. “I know I gotta be able to separate in order to progress,” he says.

In tenth grade at Andrew Jackson High School, 50 was arrested for possession of crack and given juvenile probation. He transferred to another school, but it didn’t matter. “I was fashion show in high school. After the first time I got in trouble, I’d pop in when I had something nice to wear and shit.” He dropped out after tenth grade. (He got his GED in jail a few years later.) By this time, he was a budding boxer and a rising street icon, a ghetto celeb feared throughout Queens, in control of a crack house and the main drug-selling strip around the way. At eighteen, 50 was making $5,000 a day selling crack and heroin. He bought himself a white Land Cruiser and a white Mercedes-Benz 400 SE. “He’s always been known for doing something crazy and wild,” says Sha Money XL, a longtime friend and president of 50’s indie label, G-Unit Records. “People around Queens be like, ‘I know Boo, he was crazy in school. He used to come to school with mad money and guns.’”

50 used a lot of intimidation and strategy to maintain his hold on the strip. During one of his prison stints, he met some thieves from Brooklyn. Back on the strip, he employed them to rob rival Queens hustlers. He’d let the stickup kids keep whatever cash and jewelry they got as long as they gave him all the drugs. Then he gave the stolen drugs to his customers when they bought his crack, as a buy-one-get-one-free deal. This forced his competitors to carry guns, which meant they had to scatter when the cops came. “So they had to come and leave, come and leave,” he says. “Consistency is the key to all success. If you can consistently sell crack without the cops comin’, you gonna be successful. If you consistently put out quality material in your mix tape, it’ll build anticipation for your album.”

50’s not proud of having sold drugs, but he feels no guilt about it, either. “Guilt?” he asks, a little annoyed. “Hell, no. Guilt for how? Try tellin’ a kid that’s twelve years old, ‘If you do good in school for eight more years, you can have a car.’ And let a kid’s curiosity lead him through his neighborhood and find somebody who got it in six months on that strip. It don’t seem like one of the options, it seem like the only option. I provide for myself by any means. I don’t care about how anybody feels about it. ‘Cause when I’m doin’ it, I really don’t have intentions to hurt nobody. I don’t expect everybody to understand. But there’s people that’s from where I’m from that understand.”

In the summer of 1994, 50 was arrested twice in three weeks and knew he was headed for death or prison. “It was comin’,” he says. “Long as you stay there, you don’t beat the odds.”

For years he’d been going to friends’ basements and rhyming to instrumentals for fun. Now he thought it was time to get away from the drug world and try hip-hop. He knew nothing about constructing songs, but he told himself he would succeed. “Once I focus on something, it gotta work for me,” he says. “I won’t turn off from it. I convince myself it’s gonna work and then no one can convince me that it’s not.”

In 1996, a friend introduced him to Jam Master Jay, who was then organizing his label, JMJ Records. Jay taught 50 how to structure a song. “Jay knew 50 was the shit,” Sha Money says. “He was treating 50 like a big-budget artist.” Jay produced 50’s first album, but it was never released.

In 1999, 50 moved on to Columbia Records, where he recorded another album, Power of a Dollar, which included the underground classic “How to Rob,” in which he describes mugging a slew of rap and R&B stars and lays out who 50 Cent is: the fearless and funny thug who’s just a minute off the street. The song exploded on the hip-hop underground and on the radio. 50 had always admired how KRS-One had roared into hip-hop behind a dis record (“South Bronx”). Now he’d done the same.

One night in a club, 50 said “What’s up?” to a man he knew who happened to have stolen a chain from Ja Rule. Ja saw 50 talking to the man and felt disrespected. Thus began a feud. “Wanksta” and a slew of records dissing Ja and Murder Inc. head Irv Gotti followed. Things got physical one day in Atlanta. Ja and 50 were staying in the same hotel, and when 50 saw Ja, he pulled him aside to talk. “He was lookin’ real stupid,” 50 says. “He had one of them little bats they give you at the baseball games for your kids. He had the li’l-tough look on his face.” Their talk didn’t last long. “I let him go on for about a minute or two, and then I just punched him in his eye. I heard enough of that shit.”

50 says anger is his most familiar emotion. “Somethin’ happen that another person might start crying about, I get mad. Some people know how to express themselves emotionally and cry and do all that other shit. Me, emotionally, I’m, like, thirteen.”

Months after the Atlanta fight, in a scuffle with Ja Rule’s crew at the Manhattan recording studio the Hit Factory, 50 was stabbed, though not seriously. (Charges were dismissed.) But while the Ja Rule beef merely got people talking about 50, he gained respect when Jay-Z responded to being dissed in “How to Rob” by saying, “I’m about a dollar/What the fuck is 50 Cent?” on “It’s Hot (Some Like It Hot),” from Volume 3 … The Life and Times of S. Carter.

“When he responded, I was complimented,” 50 says. “He wouldn’t say nothing back to somebody he didn’t think was hot. I never went to radio until after he said that about me. I don’t know if my career would be where it’s at if he didn’t respond.”

50 was poised to be a star. In a few months, his album was to be released. But there was at least one contract on his life; some say three. “Where I’m from, the price of life is cheap,” he says. “For $5,000, you could kill somebody. You could pick a shooter. You could have a few different choices. Might do it for less than that if they like you.” On May 24th, 2000, death came for a visit, and his life changed forever.

He was at his grandmother’s house, on his way to the tattoo parlor and then to the studio, at about 11:20 in the morning. He got into a friend’s car, then was asked to go back in to get some jewelry. When he returned and slid into the car, another car pulled up. Someone crawled out of the back and came up on 50’s left side with a gun cocked. “Sneaky motherfucker, man,” 50 says. “He did it right. He just didn’t finish. He like Allen Iverson shakin’ a nigga, go to the basket and miss.” The man hit him with nine shots at close range. 50 took bullets in the hand (“shell hit my thumb and came out my pinky”), the hip (“that one hurt-hurt”), the calf and the chest, and one to the face went through his left cheek and into his mouth. “You don’t actually feel each one hit you,” he says. “The adrenaline is pumping. You movin’ and tryin’ to get out of the way. I was bouncing around the back seat. We pulled off. We got a block or so. We had to pull over to get rid of the tote [gun]. Threw it in the sewer, then we got to the hospital. But I was up and still talking the whole time.” A few weeks later, the shooter was murdered. 50 denies responsibility.

He spent thirteen days in the hospital, then staggered out on a walker. Six weeks later, he began walking on his own. Now life was more precious to him. He began working on his body with endless push-ups, pull-ups and sit-ups that turned him from kinda fat to chiseled.

But more important for an MC, there was now a large, squarish hole through the left side of his lower jaw and a piece of bullet left in his tongue. He’d lost a bottom tooth and a U-shaped chunk of his gums, but his lazy tongue and the hole in his jaw gave him a slur like no one in hip-hop. “There’s a different sound now when I talk, ’cause of the air around the tooth,” 50 says. “Gettin’ shot just totally fixed my instrument.”

The story of the shooting of 50 Cent spread throughout hip-hop and made him seem mythical, even unkillable. But as soon as Columbia heard, it dropped him. “I wasn’t sure if the industry was ever gonna embrace me again,” he says. In January 2001, he began spending every day at Sha Money XL’s studio, making songs for the underground mix-CD world. He released five albums of material within months, flooding the market as no MC ever had. “I thought, ‘This dude got shot, got back up and is still poppin’ shit?’rdquo; says Eminem. “He came back stronger than ever. That made me stop.”

Eminem flew 50 out to L.A. for a meeting. “When everyone else was afraid to work with me for reasons outside of music, he looked straight past that,” 50 says.

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“One of the things that excited me about Tupac,” Eminem says, “was even if he was rhymin’ the simplest words in the world, you felt like he meant it and it came from his heart. That’s the thing with 50. That same aura. That’s been missing since we lost Pac and Biggie. The authenticity, the realness behind it.”

BACK IN THE HOTEL ROOM, IT’S ALMOST morning, and 50’s still telling stories, first about when Foxy Brown came to visit him in the hospital, then about an old friend with such bad luck he got arrested almost every time he left home. It’s almost time to leave, so he slips on his bulletproof vest and begins pulling the Velcro straps tight. He’s richer than ever, but he’s being hunted. “Niggas out there sellin’ drugs is after what I got from rappin’,” he says. “When you walk into a club, and the bouncer stop doin’ whatever the fuck they doin’ to let you in and say, ‘Everybody else wait. He special’ — that’s the same shit they do when you start killin’ niggas in your hood. This is what we been after the whole time. Just the wrong route.”

Everyone turns when Marquise’s mom holds up a tailor-made kiddie-size navy-blue bulletproof vest that her son will wear onstage this summer at his father’s shows. There’s something cute and funny about it, but no one laughs.

This story was originally published in RS 919 from April 3, 2003.

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48 Facts About 50 Cent

Written by Ashien Bock

Modified & Updated: 04 Jun 2024

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

• Acting Career Facts
• Legal Issues Facts
• Musical Collaborations Facts

When it comes to the world of hip-hop and music, few names are as iconic as 50 Cent. Born Curtis James Jackson III, the rapper, actor, and entrepreneur, commonly known by his stage name 50 Cent, has left an indelible mark on the industry. With a career spanning over two decades, 50 Cent has achieved tremendous success, both in music and beyond.

In this article, we delve into the fascinating world of 50 Cent and present 48 intriguing facts about the man himself. From his childhood in Queens, New York, to his rise to fame, and his ventures in business and acting, we explore the many facets of this multifaceted artist. So, buckle up and get ready to discover some lesser-known aspects of 50 Cent as we take a deep dive into his remarkable life and career.

Key Takeaways:

• 50 Cent’s journey from a tough upbringing to becoming a successful rapper, actor, and entrepreneur showcases resilience and determination, inspiring others to overcome challenges and achieve their dreams.
• With hit albums, business ventures, and philanthropy, 50 Cent has made a lasting impact on the entertainment industry, proving that hard work and talent can lead to a multifaceted and influential career.

50 Cent’s real name is Curtis James Jackson III.

Before he became renowned as 50 Cent, the rapper was known by his birth name Curtis James Jackson III.

He was shot nine times.

During an incident in 2000, 50 Cent was shot nine times, which left him with multiple injuries and scars. This event became a defining moment in his life and career.

50 Cent grew up in Queens, New York.

He was born and raised in the South Jamaica neighborhood of Queens, New York City, where he had a rough upbringing.

He started dealing drugs at a young age.

Facing financial struggles, 50 Cent turned to selling drugs from a young age as a way to survive.

His breakthrough album was “Get Rich or Die Tryin'”.

Released in 2003, “Get Rich or Die Tryin'” propelled 50 Cent into stardom, selling over 870,000 copies in its first week.

He has won numerous awards.

50 Cent has received accolades throughout his career, including a Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance and several Billboard Music Awards.

50 Cent has been involved in business ventures.

Aside from his music career, 50 Cent has invested in various business ventures, including a stake in VitaminWater and his own line of headphones.

He has acted in movies and TV shows.

50 Cent has showcased his acting skills in several films and television series, including “Get Rich or Die Tryin'” and the hit TV show “Power”.

He is a philanthropist.

Despite his tough image, 50 Cent has been involved in various charitable endeavors, supporting causes such as hunger relief and education.

Eminem played a significant role in his rise to fame.

Renowned rapper Eminem played a pivotal role in 50 Cent’s success by signing him to his record label, Shady Records.

50 Cent has his own production company.

He established his production company, G-Unit Films, which produced films like “Get Rich or Die Tryin'” and the TV series “Power”.

He is a New York Times bestselling author.

50 Cent released his autobiography, “From Pieces to Weight,” which became a bestseller on the New York Times list.

He has collaborated with numerous artists.

50 Cent has collaborated with various musical artists, including Eminem, Dr. Dre , Justin Timberlake, and Snoop Dogg.

He has his own clothing line.

Known for his fashion sense, 50 Cent launched his clothing line called “G-Unit Clothing Company”.

He has a successful entrepreneurial career.

In addition to his music and acting ventures, 50 Cent has achieved great success as an entrepreneur, with investments in areas such as real estate and boxing promotions.

He has faced legal issues.

Throughout his life, 50 Cent has dealt with legal troubles, including bankruptcy filings and lawsuits.

He is known for his iconic musical release, “In da Club”.

“In da Club” was one of 50 Cent’s biggest hits, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and becoming a cultural phenomenon.

He has been involved in feuds with other artists.

50 Cent has had publicized feuds with various artists, including Ja Rule , The Game, and Rick Ross.

He is a successful producer.

50 Cent has served as a producer for several TV shows, including “Power” and “For Life”.

He has a massive social media following.

50 Cent is known for his active presence on social media platforms, particularly Instagram, where he has millions of followers.

He is known for his unique rap style and delivery.

With his distinctive voice and delivery, 50 Cent has created a recognizable style that sets him apart from other rappers.

He has released multiple successful albums.

In addition to “Get Rich or Die Tryin'”, 50 Cent has released albums such as “ The Massacre ,” “Curtis,” and “Animal Ambition,” all of which achieved commercial success.

He has been involved in the film industry as an actor and producer.

50 Cent has acted in films such as “All Things Fall Apart” and “Den of Thieves,” and has also produced movies like “ Southpaw ” and “Escape Plan.

His music is known for its explicit lyrics.

50 Cent’s music often contains explicit lyrics and themes, which have contributed to his controversial image.

He has created his own record label.

50 Cent founded his own record label, G-Unit Records, which has signed artists like Lloyd Banks and Tony Yayo .

He has collaborated with major brands.

50 Cent has partnered with well-known brands such as Reebok and Effen Vodka for various endorsement deals.

He has had successful business ventures in the beverage industry.

50 Cent’s involvement with VitaminWater resulted in a lucrative deal when The Coca-Cola Company acquired the brand.

He has showcased his acting skills in Broadway productions.

Aside from movies and TV shows, 50 Cent has also performed in Broadway productions, such as “A Raisin in the Sun”.

He has been recognized for his contributions to the entertainment industry.

Throughout his career, 50 Cent has received numerous accolades, including BET Awards, MTV Video Music Awards, and World Music Awards.

He has released a fragrance line.

Expanding his brand even further, 50 Cent launched his own fragrance line called “Power by 50 Cent”.

He is a successful entrepreneur in the audio industry.

With his brand SMS Audio, 50 Cent has developed a successful line of headphones and audio products.

He has been involved in charity work.

Despite his tough exterior, 50 Cent has shown a philanthropic side by supporting organizations such as Feeding America and the G-Unity Foundation.

He has pursued acting in television series.

In addition to film, 50 Cent has acted in popular television series such as “The Oath” and “Power Book II: Ghost”.

He has made investments in the technology sector.

50 Cent has invested in tech companies such as Hang w/ and SKEE.TV, showcasing his diverse business interests .

He has written an inspirational book.

Aside from his autobiography, 50 Cent has authored a self-help book titled “Hustle Harder, Hustle Smarter,” sharing motivational insights from his journey.

He has a successful career in television production.

50 Cent has found success as a television producer, creating and executive producing shows like “Power Book III: Raising Kanan” and “For Life.

He has not been afraid to express his opinions.

Known for his outspoken nature, 50 Cent has often used his platform to express his views on various social and political issues.

He has been involved in the gaming industry.

50 Cent has lent his image and voice to video games, including the popular “50 Cent: Bulletproof” and “Blood on the Sand.

He has collaborated with major artists on hit songs.

Throughout his career, 50 Cent has collaborated with artists such as Beyoncé, Mary J. Blige , and Justin Timberlake, creating chart-topping hits.

He has a strong social media presence.

With millions of followers across his social media platforms, 50 Cent engages with fans and shares updates on his various ventures.

He has ventured into the energy drink market.

Expanding his entrepreneurial endeavors , 50 Cent launched an energy drink called “Street King,” with a portion of the sales going towards helping fight global hunger.

He has received praise for his acting performances.

50 Cent’s acting abilities have earned him critical acclaim, including a nomination for Best Supporting Actor at the Black Reel Awards for his role in “Get Rich or Die Tryin'”.

He has his own TV production company.

Under his production company, G-Unit Films, 50 Cent has produced various television shows, including the successful series “Power” and its spin-offs.

He has been an influential figure in hip-hop culture.

With his unique style and impactful music, 50 Cent has made a significant impact on the hip-hop culture and influenced future artists.

He has been involved in philanthropic partnerships.

50 Cent has formed partnerships with organizations such as Feeding America, the United Nations, and the World Food Programme to help fight hunger.

He has a successful boxing promotion company.

50 Cent established his own boxing promotion company, SMS Promotions, working with professional boxers to organize fights and provide opportunities for up-and-coming talent.

He has dabbled in the fashion industry.

Besides his clothing line, 50 Cent has made appearances at fashion shows and has been featured in fashion magazines, showcasing his sense of style.

He has maintained a successful career for over two decades.

Despite facing various challenges and controversies, 50 Cent has stayed relevant in the music and entertainment industry for over two decades, solidifying his status as a prominent figure.

50 Cent, also known as Curtis Jackson, is a renowned rapper, actor, and entrepreneur who has made a significant impact on the entertainment industry. From his humble beginnings to achieving worldwide success, 50 Cent’s journey is an inspiration to many aspiring artists.

Throughout this article, we have explored 48 fascinating facts about 50 Cent, shedding light on his life, career, and achievements. From surviving a near-fatal shooting to his rise to stardom with the release of his debut album “Get Rich or Die Tryin’,” 50 Cent’s story is one of resilience and determination.

Not only has 50 Cent dominated the music charts with his hit songs, but he has also ventured into acting and business. From producing and starring in multiple films and television series to launching successful business ventures, such as his own clothing line and record label, 50 Cent has proven to be a force to be reckoned with.

As we conclude, it is clear that 50 Cent’s impact on the entertainment industry goes beyond his music. His ability to reinvent himself and diversify his talents has made him a true icon. Whether it’s through his philanthropic efforts or his influential presence, 50 Cent continues to leave a lasting legacy.

1. When was 50 Cent born?

50 Cent was born on July 6 , 1975.

2. What is 50 Cent’s real name?

3. What is 50 Cent’s most famous album?

50 Cent’s most famous album is “Get Rich or Die Tryin’,” which was released in 2003.

4. How did 50 Cent get shot?

50 Cent was shot multiple times in a 2000 incident outside his grandmother’s home in Queens, New York.

5. What other ventures has 50 Cent been involved in?

Aside from music, 50 Cent has ventured into acting, producing films and television series, and launching his own business ventures such as a clothing line and record label.

6. What is 50 Cent’s net worth?

According to Forbes, 50 Cent’s net worth is estimated to be around $30 million.

7. Has 50 Cent won any awards?

Yes, 50 Cent has won numerous awards, including Grammy Awards, MTV Video Music Awards, and BET Awards.

8. Is 50 Cent involved in any philanthropic activities?

Yes, 50 Cent is involved in various philanthropic activities, particularly focusing on initiatives to combat hunger and poverty.

9. Has 50 Cent authored any books?

Yes, 50 Cent has authored several books, including his autobiography “From Pieces to Weight” and “The 50th Law” in collaboration with Robert Greene.

10. What is 50 Cent’s latest project?

50 Cent’s latest project is the television series “Power Book II: Ghost,” which is a spin-off of the popular show “Power.”

From his humble beginnings in Queens to becoming a rap icon, 50 Cent's life is filled with remarkable stories. His music, business ventures, and personal experiences have shaped him into the influential figure he is today. If you enjoyed learning about 50 Cent's incredible journey, you might also be interested in exploring the life of another influential figure in the music industry, Chris Lighty, whose extraordinary story is just as captivating.

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Hip Hop Scriptures

 50 Cent Digital Biography

It was hard in his early life, but Curtis James Jackson III aka 50 Cent finally made it to become a renowned popular African American hip hop artist the world ever has. Born on July 6, 1975 in South Jamaica, Queens in New York, he grew up in a broken home family, his hustler mother Sabrina Jackson died when he was merely eight years old, while his father left the family, leaving his grandmother to parent him. Lost those closest to him at an early age and encouraged by his desire for things would drive him begun drug dealing at the age of twelve. Eventually encountered the law and began making visits to prison, 50 pursued his dream of becoming a heavyweight boxer, but finally fell back on rapping. 

Took rapping seriously, it was in the mid '90s that the young man stayed away from crime and began making music. His break came soon thereafter upon meeting Jam Master Jay of Run DMC through a friend who instead of only taught him how to count bars, write choruses, and structure songs, passed over a tape of beats and asked him to rap over it. Got the man impressed, he was signed to his label, JMJ Records. Unfortunately, the deal didn't result much which prompted 50 to leave the label and quickly signed another deal with Columbia Records, thanks to the platinum selling producers Trackmasters who took noticed on his rapping skill. Began working on his debut album, he produced thirty-six songs in two and a half weeks, eighteen of which were included on his unofficially released album, "Power of the Dollar [Unreleased]" in 2000. 

A trio of singles preceded the album's proposed release, namely "Your Life's on the Line," "Thug Love" featuring Destiny's Child, and "How to Rob," in fact, contributed to 50's rising to popularity. The latter track, which lyrics detail how he would rob particular big-name rappers, attracted a lot of attention thus making it a hit. Shortly after the release of the single, on May 24, 2000, just before Columbia was set to release "Power of the Dollar [Unreleased]", he encountered a deadly incident on 161st Street in Jamaica, Queens when an assassin attempted to end his life, shooting him nine times with a 9mm pistol while he sat helpless in the passenger seat of a car. Spent thirteen days in recovery, he survived but Columbia Records decided to drop him, blacklisted him in the recording industry after finding out he had been shot, put "Power of the Dollar [Unreleased]" to shelve. 

Hard for him to find a studio to work with in the US during the two following years, 50 Cent headed for Canada. With the help from his business partner Sha Money XL, he made a return to the rap underground, began recording over thirty songs for mixtapes and formed a hip hop group G-Unit, featuring Lloyd Banks, Young Buck, and Tony Yayo, with the intention to set up a solid career in the industry. Together they produced large quantities of tracks, some of which featured the companions rapping over popular beats, while the others mocked popular rappers, and had them compiled on "Guess Who's Back?" in 2002. Much to their surprise, the mixtape garnered industry attention as well as street esteem, particularly popular rapper Eminem who declared on a radio show his admiration for 50 Cent. And amidst a bidding war that followed, Em indeed got him signed to his and Dr. Dre 's Shady/Aftermath label. 

Not only Em and Dre lent their hand to executive produce 50's upcoming album, but also each of them helped producing a few tracks for the set, "Get Rich or Die Tryin'", released on February 6, 2003. Prior to the release of the LP, Em got him debuted on the soundtrack to his film "8 Mile", singing "Wanksta" which became a runaway hit in late 2002, setting the stage for "In da Club," the Dre-produced lead single from "Get Rich". The so-called "most hyped debut album by a rap artist in about a decade" by All Music Guide, satisfyingly sold 872,000 copies in its first week of release, led the LP to be certified gold in its first week, platinum the following week, and was eventually certified six times platinum by the RIAA. In 2003, 50 established his own record label, G-Unit Records, and appointed his manager Sha Money XL as the president. Subsequently, a second effort "The Massacre" was put on the market by March 3, 2005, spawned two major hit singles, namely "Candy Shop" and "Disco Inferno". 

"The Massacre" sold extremely well, 1.15 million copies in its first four days of release, exceeding its predecessor while making it the sixth fastest-selling album since SoundScan began tracking sales data in 1991. Had his music career sky rocketed, 50 gave hand at acting, starred alongside senior actor Terrence Howard in the semi-autobiographical film "Get Rich or Die Tryin'", chronicling his personal life, an inner city drug dealer who turns away from crime to pursue his passion, rap music. Put a gun theme in its advertisement, the flick provoked protest from some community leaders who at the end had the movie posters banned. Amid the controversies, "Get Rich or Die Tryin'" made its way to hit the theaters as slated though, on November 5, 2005. Already became a household name, 50 added more film projects into his resume, starring in the 2007 "Home of the Brave", being in the same scene with Samuel L. Jackson and Jessica Biel among others. 

As of 2007, 50 was billed to star in three more films, "The Dance", "Live Bet", and "The Ski Mask Way", all slated for 2008 release with the latter also saw him served as producer for the first time. In the meantime, his music career was still going strong as the third studio album "Curtis" is set to release on September 4, 2007. He was about to name this piece "Before I Self Destruct" because he saw himself doing so but then thought otherwise. He then came up with "Curtis S.S.K." with the abbreviation referring to SoundScan Killa before deciding for the last time to name the album simply "Curtis" He claimed that the moniker "Before I Self Destruct" would be kept for his next project, the fourth album that will be released February 4, 2008. 

As of his personal life, 50 has a son, named Marquise Jackson, with his then girlfriend, Shaniqua Tompkins, who was born in 1997. It was the birth of the infant that brought drastic changes to the star's life, of which he was quoted as saying, "[w]hen my son came into my life, my priorities changed, because I wanted to have the relationship with him, that I didn't have with my father." Greater than that, he also credited his son to become the inspiration of his career, revealed "[m]e being an artist on the music front came from my son actually. He was motivation to go in a different direction." Rose to stardom mostly due to his music works, 50 also became media darling due to his run in with the law and feud with fellow rappers, The Game and Ja Rule, just to name a few. Meanwhile, he was engaged in a creative battle with Kanye West who happened to release his new album 'Graduation' on September 11, 2007, the same date his 'Curtis' will be released. Predicted chart battle occurred with Kanye offering a national debate on TV defending each album. Although the debate was shut down few weeks after the idea came out, 50 took the battle seriously. He stated that if his album sale is below Kanye's, he will quit writing music for himself. 

(source: aceshowbiz.com)

Learn about how hip hop has been commercialized, impacted pop culture, education, & the universe. Take the journey through the 2000s with 50 Cent, T.I., Kanye West & more!!

Curtis James Jackson III (born July 6, 1975), better known by his stage name 50 Cent, is an American rapper and actor. He rose to fame with the release of his albums Get Rich or Die Tryin' (2003) and The Massacre (2005). Get Rich or Die Tryin' has been certified eight times platinum by the RIAA and has sold over 15 million copies worldwide. His album The Massacre has been certified five times platinum by the RIAA and has sold 11 million copies worldwide.

Born in South Jamaica, Queens, Jackson began drug dealing at the age of twelve during the 1980s crack epidemic. After leaving drug dealing to pursue a rap career, he was shot at and struck by nine bullets during an incident in 2000. After releasing his album Guess Who's Back? in 2002, Jackson was discovered by rapper Eminem and signed to Interscope Records. With the help of Eminem and Dr. Dre, who produced his first major commercial successes, Jackson became one of the world's highest selling rappers. In 2003, he founded the record label G-Unit Records, which signed several successful rappers such as Young Buck, Lloyd Banks, and Tony Yayo.

Jackson has engaged in feuds with other rappers including Ja Rule, Fat Joe, Jadakiss, Cam'ron, Rick Ross, and former G-Unit members The Game and Young Buck. He has also pursued an acting career, appearing in the semi-autobiographical film Get Rich or Die Tryin' in 2005, the Iraq War film Home of the Brave in 2006, and Righteous Kill in 2008. 50 Cent was ranked as the sixth best artist of the 2000–2009 decade by Billboard magazine. The magazine also ranked him as the fourth top male artist and as the third top rapper behind Eminem and Nelly. Billboard magazine also ranked him as the sixth best and most successful Hot 100 Artist of the 2000–2009 decade and as the number one rap artist of the 2000–2009 decade. Billboard ranked his album Get Rich or Die Tryin' as the twelfth best album of the 2000–2009 decade and his album The Massacre as the 37th best album of the 2000–2009 decade. He is currently working on his fifth studio album, Black Magic, which currently has no official release date but is expected to be released later in 2011.

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