The rapper 50 Cent called his “favourite artist”
In addition to being a seismic talent, 50 Cent is one of hip-hop’s wealthiest men and provided a blueprint for many artists today in regards to maintaining relevancy and adapting their brand. The Queens rapper broke onto the scene in the early-2000s after signing with Shady Records in 2002 and exploded with his smash hit ‘Wanksta’ from the 8 Mile soundtrack.
The emcee only got bigger from there and, in 2003, released one of the best hip-hop debut albums of all time, Get Rich Or Die Tryin‘. Boasting tracks such as ‘In Da Club’ and ’21 Questions,’ the lyricist, (real name Curtis Jackson), became one of the most prominent artists in New York before conquering the globe.
Surprisingly, Jackson didn’t receive a Grammy for his debut album. Instead, OutKast were awarded ‘Best Rap Album’ for Speakerboxxx/The Love Below. The decision to give the Atlanta duo the prize was met with controversy, and Kanye West once told the Academy, “You all robbed 50 Cent of his Grammy!”
However, Jackson continued to make music, and his 2007 album, Curtis, was made alongside figures such as Jay-Z, Kanye West and Lil Wayne, among the most prominent hip-hop acts in America. However, following the project’s low sales when compared to West’s Graduation, Jackson adapted and entered the world of television production.
Irrespective of whether he currently makes music, 50 Cent’s heart will always remain loyal to the art form of rap. That said, during a 2012 appearance on the New York Power 105.1 radio show The Breakfast Club, Jackson revealed who he believes is the best rapper.
Speaking with hosts DJ Envy, Charlemagne Tha God and Angela Yee, Jackson explained why, in his opinion, KRS-One is the best lyricist. Explaining his love for the Bronx emcee, 50 Cent stated, “I seen artists get lost in teaching people. KRS was my favourite! My favourite artist…period.”
He continued, “‘The Bridge Is Over’, the competitiveness, the energy, that aggressive [style] in the early stages. That would resonate with me. [But] then the decisions he made, he got too deep!”