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Line 1: − + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + − Interesting, Robert Bruce fought with the English at the Battle of Falkirk against Wallace, but later rebelled against England as Wallace had and won Scottish independence from England. A later Scottish alliance with France was part of the cause of the [[Hundred Years War]].+ − Wallace was made famous in the movie [[BraveHeart]] when he was played [[Mel Gibson]].+ + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + +
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'''William Wallace''' fighter for Scottish independence after [[King Edward I]] of England conquered [[Scotland]] in 1296 A.D. Wallace defeated the Earl of Warenne in the [[Battle of Stirling Bridge|Battle of Cambuskenneth Bridge]] in 1297 and then went on the offensive by raiding into Northumberland and Durham in [[England]]. Edward led an invasion of Scotland and defeated Wallace at the [[Battle of Falkirk]] destroying his army. It was one of the first major uses of the [[longbow]] by the English. Wallace himself was captured and executed in 1305.
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<!--Note to Editors: Please remember not to violate copyright laws and patents, not to use open opinion, and too many external links (that's spamming), and malicious vandalism.-->
{{for|the currency amount|50 cents}}
{{for|other people called Curtis Jackson|Curtis Jackson (disambiguation)}}
{{Infobox musical artist
|Name = 50 Cent
|Background = solo_singer
|Img = 50 cent retouched.png
|Img_capt =
|Birth_name = Curtis James Jackson III
|Origin = [[New York City]], [[New York]], [[United States|USA]] {{flagicon|USA}}
|Born = {{birth date and age|1975|7|6}}
|Genre = [[Hip hop music|Hip hop]]
|Occupation = [[Rapping|Rapper]], [[actor]], [[Entertainment|entertainer]], [[entrepreneur]]
|Years_active = [[1998]] to present
|Label = Jam Master Jay, [[Columbia Records|Columbia]], [[Shady Records|Shady]]/[[Aftermath Entertainment|Aftermath]]/[[G-Unit Records|G-Unit]]/<br>[[Interscope Records|Interscope]]
|Associated_acts = [[G-Unit]], [[Eminem]], [[Dr. Dre]], [[Mobb Deep]], [[Mazaradi FOX]]
|URL = http://www.50cent.com
}}
'''Curtis James Jackson III''' (born [[July 6]] [[1975]])<ref> [http://nysdocslookup.docs.state.ny.us/GCA00P00/WIQ3/WINQ130 New York Department of Correctional Services] (DIN: 94-R-6378). Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref> is an [[United States|American]] rapper commonly known by his [[stage name]] '''50 Cent'''. He rose to fame following the release of his albums ''[[Get Rich or Die Tryin' (album)|Get Rich or Die Tryin']]'' and ''[[The Massacre]]''. 50 Cent achieved multi-[[RIAA certification|platinum]] success with both albums, selling over twenty-one million records worldwide.
Born in [[South Jamaica, Queens]] in [[New York]], 50 Cent began [[Illegal drug trade|drug dealing]] at the age of twelve during the 1980s' [[crack epidemic]].<ref name=OMM>Observer Music Monthly ([[August 21]] [[2005]]). [http://observer.guardian.co.uk/omm/story/0,,1550801,00.html Right on the money]. ''The Observer''. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref> After leaving drug dealing in favor of pursuing a rap career, he was [[shooting|shot]] nine times in 2000. After the release of his [[mixtape]] compilation ''[[Guess Who's Back?]]'' in 2002, 50 Cent 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—he became one of the highest selling rap artists in the world. He founded the record label [[G-Unit Records]] in 2003, which has signed several successful rappers such as [[Young Buck]], [[Lloyd Banks]], and [[Tony Yayo]] and he has engaged in numerous feuds with other rappers including [[Ja Rule]], [[The Game (rapper)|The Game]], and [[Cam'ron]].
50 Cent has also pursued an acting career, appearing in the semi-autobiographical film ''[[Get Rich or Die Tryin' (2005 film)|Get Rich or Die Tryin']]'' in 2005 and the [[Iraq War]] film ''[[Home of the Brave (2006 film)|Home of the Brave]]'' in 2006. He is planning to release two solo albums by February 2008.<ref>Blender (March 2007). [http://www.blender.com/news/comments.aspx?article=9124&src=cl31 50 Cent Set To Return With Two New Albums]. ''Blender''. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref>
==Biography==
===Early life===
50 Cent, born Curtis James Jackson III,<ref name=OMM2>Observer Music Monthly ([[August 21]] [[2005]]). [http://observer.guardian.co.uk/omm/story/0,13887,1550804,00.html From the cradle to the grave (nearly)]. ''The Observer''. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref> grew up in the [[South Jamaica, Queens|South Jamaica]] neighborhood of [[Queens]] in [[New York City]]. He grew up without a father and was raised by his mother Sabrina Jackson, who gave birth to him at the age of fifteen.<ref name=RS>[[Touré]] ([[April 3]] [[2003]]). [http://www.rollingstone.com/news/story/5939379/the_life_of_a_hunted_man/1 The Life of a Hunted Man]. ''Rolling Stone''. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref> Sabrina, who was a [[cocaine]] dealer, raised Jackson until the age of eight, when she was murdered. At the age of twenty-three, she became unconscious after someone [[Date rape drug|drugged]] her [[alcoholic beverage|drink]]. She was then left for dead after the gas in her apartment was turned on and the windows shut closed.<ref name=RS/><ref name=MSNBC>Samuels, Allison ([[February 21]] [[2007]]). [http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/6959748/site/newsweek/ The Flip Side of 50 Cent]. ''MSNBC''. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref> After her death, Jackson moved into his grandparents house with his eight aunts and uncles.<ref name=OMM2/><ref>Otto, Jeff ([[September 6]] [[2005]]). [http://au.movies.ign.com/articles/647/647683p1.html Interview: 50 Cent]. ''IGN''. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref><ref name=MTV3>Reid, Shaheem ([[November 7]] [[2005]]). [http://www.mtv.com/bands/123/50_cent/news_feature_110705/index.jhtml 50 Cent: Return To Southside] ''MTV''. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref> He recalls, "My grandmother told me, 'Your mother's not coming home. She's not gonna come back to pick you up. You're gonna stay with us now.' That's when I started adjusting to the streets a little bit."<ref name=MTV>Reid, Shaheem ([[February 12]] [[2003]]). [http://www.mtv.com/bands/123/50_Cent/news_feature_021203/index4.jhtml 50 Cent: Money To Burn]. ''MTV''. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref> Jackson grew up with his younger cousin, Michael Francis, who earned the nickname "25 Cent" in reference to being his younger counterpart. Francis currently raps under the stage name "Two Five".<ref>Associated Press ([[December 23]] [[2005]]). [http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/10630290/ Two Five says success has changed 50 Cent]. ''MSNBC''. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref>
Jackson began [[boxing]] around the age of eleven. In the mid 1980s, he competed in the Junior Olympics as an [[Amateur boxing|amateur boxer]]. He aspired to fight in the [[Golden Gloves]] boxing tournament, but was too young to compete.<ref name=MTV2>Reid, Shaheem ([[February 25]] [[2005]]). [http://www.mtv.com/bands/123/50_cent/news_feature_022505/ All Eyes on 50 Cent: The Sequel]. ''MTV''. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref> He recounts, "I was competitive in the ring and hip-hop is competitive too... I think rappers condition themselves like boxers, so they all kind of feel like they're the champ."<ref name=MTV2/> Jackson began dealing [[narcotics]] at the age of twelve. He sold drugs "between the hours of 3-6 pm" when his grandparents thought he was at after school programs.<ref>Female First ([[February 1]] [[2006]]). [http://www.femalefirst.co.uk/celebrity_interviews/134622004.htm The Phenomenon '50 Cent' Revealed]. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref> He also took guns and drug money to school. In the tenth grade, he was caught by [[metal detector]]s at Andrew Jackson High School. He later stated, "I was embarrassed that I got arrested like that... After I got arrested I stopped hiding it. I was telling my grandmother [openly], 'I sell drugs.'"<ref name=MTV/>
On [[June 29]] [[1994]], Jackson was arrested for helping to sell four [[vial]]s of cocaine to an [[undercover]] [[police officer]]. He was arrested again three weeks later when police searched his home and found [[heroin]], ten ounces of [[crack cocaine]], and a starter gun. He was sentenced to three to nine years in [[prison]], but managed to serve six months in a Shock Incarceration [[Boot camp (correctional)|boot camp]],<ref name=OMM2/><ref>The Smoking Gun ([[February 27]] [[2003]]). [http://www.thesmokinggun.com/archive/50cent1.html The Smoking Gun: 50 Cent]. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref> where he earned his [[General Educational Development|GED]].<ref name=HS>Dave ([[November 2]] [[2003]]). [http://www.rapnewsdirect.com/0-202-1482-00.html 50 Cent Interview on Howard Stern Show]. ''Rap News Network''. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref> Jackson said that he did not use cocaine himself, he only sold it.<ref name=HS/> He adopted the nickname "50 Cent" as a [[metaphor]] for "change".<ref name=AOL>AOL Music ([[August 1]] [[2003]]). [http://www.daveyd.com/interview50cent.html Interview w/ 50 Cent]. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref> The name was derived from [[Kelvin Martin]], a Brooklyn robber in the 1980s who was known as "50 Cent". Jackson said: "I took the name 50 Cent because it says everything I want it to say. I'm the same kind of person 50 Cent was. I provide for myself by any means."<ref>Boots, Tone ([[August 3]] [[2005]]). [http://www.stuffmagazine.com/articles/index.aspx?id=1112 Get Rich or Die Trying] ''Stuff'' magazine. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref>
===Early career===
In 1996, a friend introduced 50 Cent to [[Jam Master Jay]] of [[Run-DMC]] who was organizing his label. It was the first time 50 Cent entered a studio. Jay taught him how to count [[Bar (music)|bars]], write [[chorus]]es, structure songs, and make a record.<ref name=BBC>Youngs, Ian ([[December 23]] [[2002]]). [http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/entertainment/music/2591521.stm 50 Cent: The $1m rapper]. ''BBC News''.</ref><ref>Tarek, Shams ([[May 16]] [[2003]]). [http://www.queenspress.com/archives/features/2003/0516/feature.htm Jamaica’s ‘Own Bad Guy' 50 Cent Making Good in the Music Biz]. ''Queens Press''. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref> 50 Cent's first official appearance was on a song titled "React" with the group [[Onyx (band)|Onyx]] on their 1998 album ''[[Shut 'Em Down]]''. He credited Jam Master Jay as an influence who helped him improve his ability to write [[hook (music)|hooks]].<ref name=MTV2/> He produced 50 Cent's first album, however it was never released.<ref name=RS/> In 1999, after leaving Jam Master Jay, the platinum selling producers [[Trackmasters]] took notice of 50 Cent and signed him to [[Columbia Records]]. They sent him to a studio in [[Upstate New York]], where he produced thirty-six songs in two and a half weeks.<ref name=MSNBC/> Eighteen were included on his unofficially released album, ''[[Power of the Dollar]]'' in 2000.<ref name=50Cent>50cent.com. [http://www.50cent.com/ Biography]. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref>
50 Cent's popularity started to increase after the successful but controversial underground single, "[[How to Rob]]", which he wrote in half an hour while in a car on the way to a studio.<ref name=AOL/><ref name=Part5>50 Cent. [http://www.mtv.com/bands/123/50_cent/book_excerpt/index5.jhtml From Pieces to Weight Part 5]. ''MTV''. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref> The track comically describes how he would rob many famous artists. He explains the reasoning behind song's content as, "There’s a hundred artists on that label, you gotta separate yourself from that group and make yourself relevant."<ref name=AOL/> Offended by the record, [[Jay-Z]], [[Big Pun]], [[DMX]], and the [[Wu-Tang Clan]] replied to the song.<ref name=Part5/> Following the release of the single, [[Nas]] invited 50 Cent to travel on a promotional tour for his ''[[Nastradamus]]'' album.<ref name=MTV3/> The track was intended to be released with "Thug Love" featuring [[Destiny's Child]], but two days before he was scheduled to film the "Thug Love" video, 50 Cent was shot and had to be confined to a hospital due to his injuries.<ref name=dubcnn>Ninja (December 2002). [http://www.dubcnn.com/interviews/50cent/ 50 Cent Interview]. ''Dubcnn''. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref> The next single, "[[Ghetto Qu'ran]]", dealt with the history of the drug trade in Queens, mentioning the names of individuals who were involved in the business during the 1980s.<ref name=TSG>Mace, Francis ([[September 6]] [[2005]]). [http://www.thesmokinggun.com/archive/0906051murder1.html Surveilling 50 Cent]. ''The Smoking Gun''. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref><ref>Satten, Vanessa ([[July 27]] [[2006]]). [http://xxlmag.com/online/?p=3259 Games Haters Play]. ''XXL''. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref>
===Shooting===
On [[May 24]] [[2000]], 50 Cent was attacked by a gunman outside his grandmother's house. He went into a friend's car, but was asked to return to the house to get [[jewelry]]. His son was in the house while his grandmother was in the front yard.<ref name=MSNBC/> Upon returning to the back seat of the car, a car pulled up nearby. An assailant then walked up to 50 Cent's left side with a [[9 mm caliber|9 mm]] [[handgun]] and fired nine shots at close range. He was shot nine times—in the hand (a round hit his right thumb and came out of his [[Little finger|pinky]]), arm, hip, legs, chest, and left cheek.<ref name=RS/><ref name=MTV/><ref name=TIME>Tyrangirl, Josh ([[February 17]] [[2003]]). [http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1004252,00.html Rap's Newest Target]. ''Time'' magazine. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref> The face wound resulted in a swollen tongue, the loss of a [[wisdom tooth]], and a small but permanent slur in his voice.<ref name=MTV3/><ref name=MTV/><ref>50 Cent (2003). ''The New Breed'' (DVD). Interscope Records.</ref> His friend also sustained a gunshot wound to the hand.<ref name=SOHH>Chery, Carl ([[October 24]] [[2005]]). [http://www.sohh.com/articles/article.php/7723 50 Cent Shot By "Hommo" Reveals Tell-All Book]. ''SOHH''. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref> They were driven to hospital where he spent thirteen days in recovery. The alleged shooter was killed three weeks later.<ref name=SOHH/>
50 Cent recalled the incident saying, "It happens so fast that you don't even get a chance to shoot back... I was scared the whole time... I was looking in the [[rear-view mirror]] like, 'Oh shit, somebody shot me in the face! It burns, burns, burns.'"<ref name=MTV/> In his [[memoir]], ''From Pieces to Weight: Once Upon a Time in Southside Queens'', he wrote, "After I got shot nine times at close range and didn't die, I started to think that I must have a purpose in life... How much more damage could that shell have done? Give me an inch in this direction or that one, and I'm gone."<ref name=OMM2/> The recovery process took five months, and he used a [[walker (tool)|walker]] for the first six weeks. His physical workout regimen helped attain his muscular physique.<ref name=RS/><ref name=MTV/>
While in hospital, 50 Cent signed a publishing deal with Columbia Records. However, he was dropped from the label and "blacklisted" in the recording industry after finding out he had been shot.<ref name=Blender>Weiner, Jonah (April 2005). [http://www.blender.com/guide/articles.aspx?id=1534 Dear Superstar: 50 Cent]. ''Blender''. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref><ref name=TSG/> Unable to find a studio to work with in the [[United States|U.S]], he traveled to [[Canada]].<ref name=TSG/> Along with his business partner [[Sha Money XL]], he recorded over thirty songs for mixtapes, with the purpose of building a reputation. 50 Cent's popularity rose and in early 2001, he released material independently on the mixtape, ''[[Guess Who's Back?]]''. Beginning to attract interest, and now backed by [[G-Unit]], 50 Cent continued to make songs. They released the mixtape, ''[[50 Cent Is the Future]]'', revisiting material by [[Jay-Z]] and [[Raphael Saadiq]].<ref name=50Cent/>
===Rise to fame===
In 2002, [[Eminem]] listened to a copy of 50 Cent's ''[[Guess Who's Back?]]'' CD. He received the CD through 50 Cent's attorney, who was working with Eminem's manager [[Paul Rosenberg (Music Manager)|Paul Rosenberg]].<ref name=dubcnn/> Impressed with the album, Eminem invited 50 Cent to fly to [[Los Angeles]], where he was introduced to Dr. Dre.<ref name=RS/><ref name=BBC/><ref name=dubcnn/> After signing a one million [[United States dollar|U.S. dollar]] record deal,<ref name=BBC/> 50 Cent released the mixtape, ''[[No Mercy, No Fear]]''. It featured one new track, "[[Wanksta]]", which was put on Eminem's ''[[8 Mile (soundtrack)|8 Mile]]'' soundtrack.
On [[February 6]] [[2003]], 50 Cent's commercial debut album, ''[[Get Rich or Die Tryin' (album)|Get Rich or Die Tryin']]'' was released. ''[[All Music Guide]]'' called it "the most hyped debut album by a rap artist in about a decade."<ref>Birchmeier, Jason. [http://www.allmusic.com/cg/amg.dll?p=amg&sql=10:svz1z88a4yv3 Get Rich or Die Tryin' Review]. ''All Music Guide''. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref> ''[[Rolling Stone]]'' noted the album for its "dark synth grooves, buzzy keyboards and a persistently funky bounce" with 50 Cent complementing the production in "an unflappable, laid-back flow."<ref>Hoard, Christian ([[March 6]] [[2003]]). [http://www.rollingstone.com/artists/50cent/albums/album/301556/review/6067729/get_rich_or_die_tryin 50 Cent: Get Rich or Die Tryin' Review]. ''Rolling Stone''. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref> 872,000 copies were sold in the first four days.<ref>Gundersen, Edna ([[September 3]] [[2005]]). [http://www.usatoday.com/life/music/news/2005-03-09-50-cent-sales_x.htm 'Massacre' sales top one million]. ''USA Today''. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref> It was certified [[RIAA Certification|gold]] in its first week, [[RIAA Certification|platinum]] the following week, and was eventually certified six times platinum by the [[RIAA]]. The lead single, "[[In da Club]]", which ''[[The Source (magazine)|The Source]]'' noted for its "blaring horns, funky organs, guitar riffs and sparse hand claps"<ref>Rosario, Robert "Boo" (March 2003). "Record Report". ''The Source'' magazine, p. 192.</ref> broke a ''[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]'' record as the 'most listened-to' song in radio history within a week.<ref>Rock on the Net. [http://www.rockonthenet.com/artists-f/50cent.htm Timeline]. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref>
[[Image:Gunitlogo.jpg|left|thumb|85pix|[[G-Unit Records]] Logo]]
[[Interscope]] then granted 50 Cent his own label, [[G-Unit Records]] in 2003.<ref>Winston, Dallas ([[September 4]] [[2003]]). [http://www.allhiphop.com/hiphopnews/?ID=1760 G-Unit Records Signs With Interscope]. ''AllHipHop''. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref> He appointed his manager [[Sha Money XL]] as the president. The label signed [[Lloyd Banks]], [[Tony Yayo]], and [[Young Buck]] as the established members of [[G-Unit]]. Dr. Dre and 50 Cent signed [[The Game (rapper)|The Game]] under a [[joint venture]]. On [[March 3]] [[2005]], 50 Cent's second commercial album, ''[[The Massacre]]'' was released. He became the first solo artist to have three singles on the Billboard top five in the same week with "[[Candy Shop]]", "[[Disco Inferno]]", and "[[How We Do]]".<ref>Montgomery, James ([[March 9]] [[2005]]). [http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1497922/20050309/story.jhtml 50 Cent's The Massacre Makes Huge Chart Debut]. ''MTV''. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref> ''Rolling Stone'' noted that "50's secret weapon is his singing voice - the deceptively amateur-sounding tenor croon that he deploys on almost every chorus."<ref>Brackett, Nathan ([[March 10]] [[2005]]). [http://www.rollingstone.com/artists/50cent/albums/album/7072060/review/7045740/the_massacre The Massacre Review]. ''Rolling Stone''. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref>
After the departure of The Game, 50 Cent signed singer [[Olivia (singer)|Olivia]] and rap veterans [[Mobb Deep]] to G-Unit Records. [[Spider Loc]], [[M.O.P.]], and Young Hot Rod later joined the label.<ref>Reid, Shaheem ([[September 2]] [[2005]]). [http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1508894/09022005/50_cent.jhtml 50 And Mase: The Pastor Isn't Officially G-Unit Yet, But a Song Is Already Out]. ''MTV''. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref><ref>Chery, Carl ([[May 27]] [[2005]]). [http://www.sohh.com/articles/article.php/7132 Pulse Report: M.O.P. Signs To G-Unit]. ''SOHH''. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref> 50 Cent has expressed interest in working with other rappers outside of G-Unit, such as [[Lil' Scrappy]] of [[BME Recordings|BME]], [[LL Cool J]] from [[Def Jam]], [[Ma$e|Mase]] from [[Bad Boy Records|Bad Boy]], and [[Freeway (rapper)|Freeway]] of [[Roc-A-Fella Records|Roc-A-Fella]], some of whom he has now recorded with.<ref>Black, Bea ([[June 2]] [[2006]]). [http://www.allhiphop.com/hiphopnews/?ID=5337 Roc-A-Fella Rapper Freeway Collaborating with G-Unit for New Album]. ''AllHipHop''. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref>
===Personal life===
In 1997, 50 Cent's then-girlfriend Shaniqua Tompkins gave birth to a son, Marquise Jackson.<ref name=OMM/> The birth of his son changed his outlook on life, "[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."<ref>Williams, Kam. [http://aalbc.com/reviews/50_cent_interview.htm 50 Cent’s 2 Cents on Shooting Scenes, Samuel L., and His Son]. ''AALBC''. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref> He credits his son with inspiring his career, "[m]e being an artist on the music front came from my son actually. He was motivation to go in a different direction."<ref>I Like Music (2005). [http://www.ilikemusic.com/interviews/50_Cent_interview_Get_Rich_Or_Die_Tryin-2068 50 Cent chats to ilikemusic.com]. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref> 50 Cent has a [[tattoo]] of "Marquise" with an axe on his right bicep. "The axe is 'cause I'm a warrior. I don't want him to be one, though,"<ref name=Blender/> he explains. He also has "50", "Southside", and "Cold World" inscribed on his back because "I'm a product of that environment. It's on my back, though, so it's all behind me."<ref name=Blender/>
In 2005, 50 Cent expressed support for President [[George W. Bush]] after rapper [[Kanye West]] criticized him for the slow response in assisting the victims of [[Hurricane Katrina]].<ref>Lynskey, Dorian ([[January 20]] [[2006]]). [http://arts.guardian.co.uk/filmandmusic/story/0,,1690036,00.html 'I'm not trying to save the world']. ''The Guardian''. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref> If his felony convictions did not prevent him from voting, he claimed that he would have voted for Bush.<ref>MTV News staff ([[November 23]] [[2005]]). [http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1514482/20051123/50_cent.jhtml For The Record: Quick News On 50 Cent, Kanye West, Irv Gotti, Beyoncé, Zack De La Rocha, Alice In Chains & More]. ''MTV''. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref> In 2006, 50 Cent was recognized for his wealth by ''Rolling Stone'', placing him second behind [[Diddy]] in the rap industry.<ref>Hiatt, Brian ([[March 10]] [[2006]]). [http://www.rollingstone.com/news/story/9447993/the_richest_rock_stars_of_2006 The Richest Rock Stars of 2006]. ''Rolling Stone''. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref> He resides in [[Farmington, Connecticut]], in the former mansion of ex-[[boxing|boxer]] [[Mike Tyson]].<ref>Bernard, Sarah ([[August 22]] [[2005]]). [http://nymag.com/nymetro/shopping/columns/economy/12452/ How Would 50 Cent Spend $3.5 Million?]. ''New York''. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref> 50 Cent has put the mansion for sale at $18.5 million in order to move closer to his son who lives in [[Long Island]] with his ex-wife.<ref>Keil, Braden ([[May 4]] [[2007]]). [http://www.nypost.com/seven/05042007/news/regionalnews/for_sale__fitty__swanksta_crib_regionalnews_braden_keil.htm For Sale: Fitty Swanksta Crib]. ''New York Post''. Retrieved on [[May 27]] [[2007]].</ref>
==Ventures==
===Merchandise===
50 Cent signed a five year deal with [[Reebok]] to release a G-Unit Sneakers line as part of his [[G-Unit Clothing Company]] in November 2003.<ref>Reebok.com ([[November 13]] [[2003]]). [http://www.reebok.com/useng/ir/press/2003/Reebok+and+50+Cent+Announce+.htm Reebok and 50 Cent Announce the Successful Launch of New "G-Unit Collection by RBK" Footwear]. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref> He provides the [[voice-over]] as the [[protagonist]] in the videogame ''[[50 Cent: Bulletproof]]'', which was released for [[PlayStation 2]], [[Xbox]], and the [[PlayStation Portable]]. He has worked with [[glacéau]] to create and market low-calorie, natural drinks called Formula 50. He also launched a [[condom]] line and plans to donate a part of the proceeds to [[HIV]] awareness.<ref name=NYPost>Mirchandani, Raakhee ([[January 5]] [[2007]]). [http://www.nypost.com/seven/01052007/entertainment/the_merchant_of_menace_entertainment_raakhee_mirchandani.htm?page=0 The Merchant of Menace]. ''New York Post''. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref>
===Films===
After making a [[cameo appearance]] on ''[[The Simpsons]]'' episode ''[[Pranksta Rap]]'', in which he makes light of his legal troubles, in 2005, 50 Cent starred alongside [[Terrence Howard]] in the semi-autobiographical film ''[[Get Rich or Die Tryin' (2005 film)|Get Rich or Die Tryin']]''. He also starred in the 2006 film ''[[Home of the Brave (2006 film)|Home of the Brave]]'' as a [[soldier]] returning home from the [[Iraq War]], traumatized after killing an Iraqi woman.<ref>Topel, Fred ([[December 12]] [[2006]]). [http://www.craveonline.com/music/articles/04647206 CraveOnline Talks to 50 Cent]. ''CraveOnline''. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref> Currently, 50 Cent is working on a role as a fighter in an [[Angola]] State Prison in ''[[The Dance (2008 film)|The Dance]]'' alongside [[Nicholas Cage]], and is set to star opposite [[Robert De Niro]] in 2008's ''New Orleans'', a movie regarding a police death.<ref>Brevet, Brad ([[December 11]] [[2006]]). [http://www.ropeofsilicon.com/news.php?id=4860 Interview: 50 Cent on 'Home of the Brave']. ''RopeofSilicon''. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref> He has started a production company called ''[[G-Unit Films]]'' <ref>MTV News staff ([[March 23]] [[2007]]). [http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1555498/20070326/nas.jhtml For The Record: Quick News on Eminem, Ciara, Ludacris, Ne-Yo, Slayer, Marilyn Manson, Nas, Public Enemy & More]. ''MTV''. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref> and they will be working on their first motion picture called ''[[Live Bet (2008 film)|Live Bet]]''.
===Books===
50 Cent released a [[memoir]] about his life leading up to his success titled ''From Pieces to Weight: Once upon a Time in Southside Queens'' in 2005. On [[January 4]] [[2007]], he launched his G-Unit Books imprint at Borders-Columbus Circle in the [[Time Warner Building]] in New York.<ref>Strong, Nolan ([[February 1]] [[2007]]). [http://allhiphop.com/hiphopnews/?ID=6557 50 Cent to Launch G-Unit Books, Meet Fans]. ''AllHipHop''. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref> He also co-wrote ''The Ski Mask Way'', a novel about a small-time drug dealer who attempts to rob his employers, which is expected to be turned into a film before the end of 2007.<ref name=NYPost/> 50 Cent also said he was reading ''[[The 33 Strategies of War]]'' by [[Robert Greene (author)|Robert Greene]] and is currently working with the author on a book titled ''The 50th Law'', an urban take on ''[[The 48 Laws of Power]]''.<ref name=NYPost/><ref>Richburg, Chris ([[6 February]] [[2007]]). [http://www.allhiphop.com/hiphopnews/?ID=6676 '48 Laws' Author Robert Greene Working with 50 Cent on New Book, QD3 On New Film]. ''AllHipHop''. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref>
==Feuds==
{{main|G-Unit feuds}}
[[Image:Ant-50 Cent billboard in Tribeca by David Shankbone.jpg|thumb|An anti-50 Cent billboard in [[Tribeca]], New York.]]
===Murder Inc.===
Before signing with Interscope, 50 Cent was engaged in a well-publicized [[Hip hop rivalries#50 Cent vs. Ja Rule|dispute]] with rival rapper [[Ja Rule]] and his label [[The Inc. Records|Murder Inc. Records]]. The rappers engaged in numerous mixtape "[[Dissing|disses]]". The conflict stemmed from 50 Cent's friend allegedly robbing Ja Rule of his jewelry.<ref name=TIME/> In March 2000, 50 Cent was punched by brothers Christopher and [[Irving Lorenzo]] (head of Murder Inc. Records) and then stabbed in the chest by rapper [[Black Child]] outside [[The Hit Factory]] studio in New York. He was treated for a [[laceration]] to the chest and a partially [[collapsed lung]].<ref>Brown, Ethan ([[December 1]] [[2003]]). [http://nymag.com/nymetro/news/features/n_9562/ Got Beef?]. ''New York''. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref>
An [[affidavit]] by an [[Internal Revenue Service|IRS]] agent suggested that the label had ties to [[Kenneth "Supreme" McGriff]], a New York [[drug lord]] who was suspected of being involved in the murder of [[Jam Master Jay]] and the shooting of 50 Cent. An excerpt of the affidavit read:<ref name=TSG/>
{{cquote|The investigation has uncovered a conspiracy involving McGriff and others to murder a rap artist who has released songs containing lyrics regarding McGriff's criminal activities. The rap artist was shot in 2000, survived and thereafter refused to cooperate with law enforcement regarding the shooting. Messages transmitted over the Murder Inc. pager indicate that McGriff is involved in an ongoing plot to kill this rap artist, and that he communicates with Murder Inc. employees concerning the target.}}
===New York rappers===
Prior to releasing ''The Massacre'', 50 Cent recorded a song, "[[Piggy Bank (song)|Piggy Bank]]", which was leaked before the album's release. The song "disses" several rappers including [[Fat Joe]], [[Nas (rapper)|Nas]], and [[Jadakiss]].<ref>Reid, Shaheem ([[February 22]] [[2005]]). [http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1497344/20050222/50_cent.jhtml 50 Cent's LP Pushed Up, Harsh 'Facts' Sound Like Disses On Leaked 'Piggy Bank']. ''MTV''. Retrieved on [[May 23]] [[2007]].</ref> Fat Joe responded with a song, "My Fo, Fo", accussing 50 Cent of taking [[steroid]]s, hiding in his home, and being jealous of [[The Game (rapper)|The Game]]. Jadakiss also responded with a song, "Checkmate", and said that 50 Cent was trying to "create a buzz for his new album".<ref name=PB>Reid, Shaheem ([[March 10]] [[2005]]). [http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1497957/20050309/jadakiss.jhtml Jadakiss, Fat Joe Retaliate For 50's 'Piggy Bank']. ''MTV''. Retrieved on [[May 23]] [[2007]].</ref> The music video for "Piggy Bank" portrays animated [[caricature]]s of Jadakiss (as a [[Ninja turtle]]), Nas (as a kid chasing a "milkshake" truck in a [[Superman]] costume), Fat Joe (as an overweight boxer who receives a [[knockout]]), and also The Game (as [[Mr. Potato Head]]).<ref>Reid, Shaheem ([[August 4]] [[2005]]). [http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1506954/20050804/story.jhtml 50 Mocks Fat Joe, Jadakiss, Game, Nas In 'Piggy Bank' Video]. ''MTV''. Retrieved on [[May 23]] [[2007]].</ref>
50 Cent spoke negatively about [[Bad Boy Entertainment]] mogul Sean "[[Puff Daddy|Diddy]]" Combs, and recorded a song revealing the reasons behind his negative feelings: primarily, a contract dispute over [[Mase]]. In this song, he implied that Diddy knew about [[The Notorious B.I.G.]]'s murder and threatened to expose him through several former associates. The feud has since been resolved, with Diddy and 50 Cent appearing on [[MTV]]'s [[TRL]] and [[Sucker Free]], respectively, stating that there are no longer problems between the two.<ref>Strong, Nolan; Jeffries, Alexis ([[July 9]] [[2006]]). [http://www.allhiphop.com/Hiphopnews/?ID=6111 Exclusive: 50 Cent, Sean 'Diddy' Combs Declare 'Cease Fire']. ''AllHipHop''. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref>
On [[February 1]] [[2007]], [[Cam'ron]] and 50 Cent had a live argument on ''The [[Angie Martinez]] Show'' on [[WQHT-FM|Hot 97 radio]]. 50 Cent commented that [[Koch Entertainment]] was a "graveyard",<ref name=NYT>Sanneh, Kelefa ([[February 27]] [[2007]]). [http://www.nytimes.com/2007/02/27/arts/music/27koch.html?ex=1330232400&en=450b007f34cc7d4d&ei=5088&partner=rssnyt&emc=rss Rappers Find That a Small Label Can Have Its Uses]. ''New York Times''. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref> meaning [[major record labels]] would not work with their artists. Cam'ron then ridiculed the record sales of [[G-Unit]] members [[Lloyd Banks]] and [[Mobb Deep]] by stating that [[Jim Jones (rapper)|Jim Jones]] had outsold their albums despite being signed to an [[independent label]] and that his group, [[The Diplomats]], had a distribution deal from several labels.<ref name=NYT/> Both rappers released "diss" songs with accompanying videos on [[YouTube]]. 50 Cent suggested in "[[Funeral Music]]" that Cam'ron is no longer able to lead The Diplomats and that Jim Jones should take his place. Cam'ron responded with "Curtis" and "Curtis Pt. II", in which he makes fun of 50 Cent's appearance, calling him "a gorilla, with rabbit teeth".<ref>Petipas, Jolene ([[February 9]] [[2007]]). [http://www.sohh.com/articles/article.php/10860 It's Official, 50 Cent Starts War With Cam'ron]. ''SOHH''. Retrieved on [[May 25]] [[2007]].</ref> 50 Cent responded by releasing "[[Hold On (Young Buck song)|Hold On]]" with [[Young Buck]].<ref>Reid, Shaheem ([[March 28]] [[2007]]). [http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1555587/20070326/west_kanye.jhtml Kanye, Cam'ron, More MCs Skip Million-Dollar Videos, Go Straight To The Web]. ''MTV''. Retrieved on [[May 25]] [[2007]].</ref>
===The Game===
{{main article|G-Unit vs. The Game feud}}
In 2005, 50 Cent had a feud with [[The Game (rapper)|The Game]], whom he was close to before releasing his debut album ''[[The Documentary]]''. When the album was released, 50 Cent felt The Game was disloyal for saying he did not want to participate in G-Unit's feuds with other rappers and even wanting to work with artists they were feuding with. He also claimed that he wrote six songs on the album and was not receiving proper credit for his work.<ref>Reid, Shaheem ([[March 1]] [[2005]]). [http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1497638/03012005/50_cent.jhtml 50 Cent And The Game — Doomed From The Very Beginning?]. ''MTV''. Retrieved on [[May 25]] [[2007]].</ref>
50 Cent later dismissed The Game from G-Unit on [[WQHT-FM|Hot 97]] radio. After the announcement, The Game, who was a guest earlier in the evening, attempted to enter the building with his entourage. After being denied entry, one of his associates was shot in the leg during a confrontation with a group of individuals who were leaving the building.<ref>Reid, Shaheem ([[February 28]] [[2005]]). [http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1497589/20050228/50_cent.jhtml 50 Drops Game From G-Unit; Shots Fired At Radio Station]. ''MTV''. Retrieved on [[June 2]] [[2007]].</ref><ref>Hope, Clover ([[March 2]] [[2005]]). [http://www.allhiphop.com/hiphopnews/index.asp?ID=4134 50 Cent Cancels New York Appearance Amid Shooting Inquiry]. ''AllHipHop''. Retrieved on [[June 2]] [[2007]].</ref> When the situation escalated, 50 Cent and The Game held a press conference to announce their reconciliation.<ref>Fresh, Remmie ([[March 9]] [[2005]]). [http://www.allhiphop.com/hiphopnews/?ID=4163 The Game And 50 Hold Press Conference Today To End Dispute]. ''AllHipHop''. Retrieved on [[May 25]] [[2007]].</ref> Fans had mixed feelings as to whether the rappers created a publicity stunt to boost the sales of the albums the pair had just released.<ref>Rodriguez, Jayson ([[March 1]] [[2005]]). [http://www.allhiphop.com/hiphopnews/?ID=4129 UPDATE: Man Shot Not With 50 Cent; Violator Offices Shot Up]. ''AllHipHop''. Retrieved on [[June 2]] [[2007]].</ref> Nevertheless, the situation escalated when The Game's [[Wiktionary:street credibility|street credibility]] was criticized by 50 Cent and G-Unit. The group denounced The Game and announced that they will not feature on his albums. During a performance at [[Summer Jam]], The Game launched a [[boycott]] of G-Unit called "[[G-Unot]]".<ref>Rodriguez, Jason ([[June 5]] [[2005]]). [http://allhiphop.com/hiphopnews/?ID=4469 The Game Taunts 50 Cent, Jay-Z Returns At Hot 97’s Summer Jam]. ''AllHipHop''. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref>
After the Summer Jam performance, The Game released a track, "[[300 Bars and Runnin']]", which addresses 50 Cent and G-Unit. He continued his attacks with a DVD titled ''[[Stop Snitchin, Stop Lyin']]''. After numerous songs aimed at G-Unit, 50 Cent responded to the The Game's rebuttals on mix tapes. One track, "Not Rich, Still Lyin'", imitates The Game, attacks his credibility, and mentions his feud with his brother, Big Fase 100.<ref>Chery, Carl ([[February 3]] [[2006]]). [http://www.sohh.com/articles/article.php/8275 The Game takes on Spider Loc, 50 Cent strikes back]. ''SOHH''. Retrieved on [[June 2]] [[2007]].</ref>
The Game also released images depicting the rap group in many parodies on previous mixtapes. In response, G-Unit published a mixtape cover with the rapper's head on the body of a male [[Exotic dancer|stripper]].<ref>Contact Music ([[July 24]] [[2006]]). [http://www.contactmusic.com/news.nsf/article/50%20cent%20fuels%20fire%20with%20the%20game_1003370 50 Cent Fuels Fire With The Game]. Retrieved on [[May 22]] [[2007]].</ref> Although they were signed to Aftermath Entertainment, The Game left the label in order to terminate his contractual obligations with G-Unit.
==Discography==
{{main|50 Cent discography}}
*2003: ''[[Get Rich or Die Tryin' (album)|Get Rich or Die Tryin']]''
*2005: ''[[The Massacre]]''
*2007: ''[[Curtis (50 Cent album)|Curtis]]''
==Awards==
{{main|List of 50 Cent awards and nominations}}
==Filmography==
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Year !! Title !! Role !! Notes
|-
| [[2003 in film|2003]] || ''[[50 Cent: The New Breed]]'' || as himself || [[Documentary]] [[DVD]]
|-
|rowspan="2"| [[2005 in film|2005]] || [[Pranksta Rap]] || as himself || ''[[The Simpsons]]'' episode 16.9
|-
| ''[[Get Rich or Die Tryin' (film)|Get Rich or Die Tryin']]'' || Marcus || [[Motion picture]] debut
|-
| [[2006 in film|2006]] || ''[[Home of the Brave (2006 film)|Home of the Brave]]'' || Jamal Aiken ||
|-
|rowspan="3"| [[2008 in film|2008]] || ''[[The Dance (film)|The Dance]]'' || --- || announced
|-
| ''[[Live Bet]]'' || --- || announced
|-
| ''[[The Ski Mask Way]]'' || Seven || announced
|}
==References==
{{reflist|2}}
==External links==
{{commons}}
*[http://www.50cent.com/ Official website]
*{{myspace|50cent}}
*{{imdb name | id=1265067 | name=50 Cent}}
*{{amg|id=11:wbfpxqqjldse|label=50 Cent}}
*[http://www.youtube.com/profile?user=50CentMusic 50 Cent] at [[YouTube]]
{{50 Cent}}
{{Persondata
|NAME=50 Cent
|ALTERNATIVE NAMES=Curtis James Jackson III
|SHORT DESCRIPTION=Rapper
|DATE OF BIRTH=[[July 6]] [[1975]]
|PLACE OF BIRTH=[[New York City]], [[New York]], [[United States]]
|DATE OF DEATH=
|PLACE OF DEATH=
}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:# 50 Cent}}
[[Category:1975 births]]
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[[Category:African-American actors]]
[[Category:Aftermath Entertainment]]
[[Category:G-Unit Records artists]]
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[[Category:G-Unit members]]
[[Category:Hip hop record producers]]
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[[Category:People from Queens]]
[[Category:Rapper/actors]]
[[Category:Shady Records artists]]
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