In a recent candid conversation, hip-hop icon 50 Cent opened up about his deep admiration for fellow rapper Eminem, revealing the pivotal role Em played in his career. Speaking in an interview, 50 Cent expressed gratitude, stating, “I love him… Just ’cause he gave me my opportunity. I wouldn’t even be here.” This heartfelt acknowledgment comes amid revelations about their tumultuous yet impactful journey in the music industry.
50 Cent, born Curtis Jackson, faced significant challenges early in his career, including being shot nine times in 2000. This harrowing experience left him grappling with paranoia and distrust within the industry, as he felt blackballed by record labels and promoters. “By the time 2002 rolled in, life felt like a war zone for 50 Cent,” he reflected, noting how the music world treated him like “radioactive.”
Despite these adversities, 50 Cent continued to innovate and work on his craft. His mixtape “Guess Who’s Back” eventually caught the attention of Eminem, who was at the height of his fame with the release of “The Marshall Mathers LP.” Eminem’s enthusiasm for 50’s music led to a life-changing invitation for a meeting in Los Angeles—a risky move given the ongoing tensions in the industry and lingering threats to 50’s safety.
“When I first got the invite, I thought it might be a prank,” 50 Cent recalled, admitting he arrived in LA wearing a bulletproof vest, a precaution stemming from his past trauma. However, when he met Eminem, the moment was more genuine than he anticipated. “There were no big speeches, no drama, just a quick moment of real respect,” he said, emphasizing the warmth of Eminem’s embrace.
This meeting marked the beginning of a powerful collaboration that would change the landscape of hip-hop. The resulting album, “Get Rich or Die Tryin'”, catapulted 50 Cent to superstardom. Despite his newfound success, 50 Cent maintained his cautious approach to life and business, continuing to wear his bulletproof vest and keeping a watchful eye on potential threats.
Their partnership did not come without challenges. As Eminem’s career soared, he too found himself embroiled in conflicts, particularly when 50’s rival, Ja Rule, targeted Eminem’s daughter in a diss track. In response, Eminem fiercely defended his friend through a series of diss tracks, demonstrating the loyalty that has characterized their relationship.
The bond between the two artists has only strengthened over the years. Eminem stood by 50 Cent during critical moments, such as the 2022 Super Bowl halftime show, where he insisted that 50 be included despite pushback from producers. “I can’t do it if I can’t bring 50 up,” Eminem reportedly said, showcasing his unwavering support for his longtime friend.
As their careers continue to evolve, the loyalty and respect between 50 Cent and Eminem remain evident. From their humble beginnings to their current status as hip-hop legends, their story serves as a testament to the power of friendship and support in an industry often fraught with competition and conflict. Their journey together underscores a profound message: true camaraderie can thrive even in the most challenging environments, and it can lead to extraordinary achievements.