50 Cent is an American rapper, actor, and entrepreneur who rose to fame in the early 2000s with his debut album, Get Rich or Die Tryin’. Born in Queens, New York, 50 Cent (real name Curtis James Jackson III) began his career as a drug dealer before turning to music. His unique flow and gritty lyrics quickly caught the attention of the hip-hop world, and he became one of the most successful artists of his time, selling over 30 million albums worldwide. He has also acted in several movies and television shows, including the hit Starz series, Power.
In this article, we will take a closer look at 50 Cent’s career and highlight his top 10 best songs of all time. From his early hits like “In da Club” and “P.I.M.P.” to later tracks like “Candy Shop” and “21 Questions,” we will explore the songs that cemented 50 Cent’s place in hip-hop history. We will also examine the stories behind the songs, including their inspiration, production, and impact on popular culture. Whether you’re a die-hard 50 Cent fan or just discovering his music for the first time, this article is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of hip-hop.
1. Candy Shop
“Candy Shop” is a hit single by 50 Cent, released in 2005 as the second single from his second studio album, “The Massacre.” The song features Olivia on the chorus and is produced by Scott Storch. It is known for its catchy beat and sexually suggestive lyrics, with 50 Cent comparing his lover to a “candy shop” where he can indulge his desires. The song became a commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and staying in the top 10 for several weeks. It also topped the charts in several other countries, including the UK and Australia. “Candy Shop” cemented 50 Cent’s place as one of the top rappers of his time and remains one of his most popular songs to this day.
2. Disco Inferno
“Disco Inferno” is a high-energy track by 50 Cent, released in 2005 as the lead single from the soundtrack of the movie “Get Rich or Die Tryin’.” The song features a heavy beat and a catchy hook, with 50 Cent rapping about his rise to fame and success in the rap game. Produced by C. Styles and Bang Out, “Disco Inferno” showcases 50 Cent’s signature style and flow, with the lyrics and beat creating a party-like atmosphere. The song was a commercial success, reaching number three on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and staying in the top 10 for several weeks. It also received critical acclaim for its infectious beat and memorable lyrics. “Disco Inferno” remains a fan favorite and a staple in 50 Cent’s discography.
3. Window Shopper
“Window Shopper” is a song by 50 Cent, released in 2005 as a standalone single. The song features production from C. Styles and Bang Out, and is known for its catchy beat and braggadocious lyrics. In the song, 50 Cent talks about his lavish lifestyle and dismisses those who can’t afford to live like him as mere “window shoppers.” The song’s chorus features a sample from “Love’s Theme” by Love Unlimited Orchestra, adding to its appeal. “Window Shopper” was a commercial success, reaching number 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and receiving widespread airplay on radio and television. It remains one of 50 Cent’s most popular songs and has been featured in several movies and television shows. The song’s infectious beat and memorable lyrics make it a standout track in 50 Cent’s discography.
4. When It Rains It Pours
“When It Rains It Pours” is a song by 50 Cent, released in 2007 as a single from his third studio album, “Curtis.” The song features production by Ty Fyffe and showcases 50 Cent’s signature flow and storytelling ability. In the song, 50 Cent talks about the challenges he faced growing up in Queens and how he overcame them to become successful in the music industry. He also addresses his detractors and those who doubted him, emphasizing his resilience and determination. The song’s chorus features a sample from “I Can’t Stand the Rain” by Ann Peebles, adding to its appeal. “When It Rains It Pours” received critical acclaim for its powerful lyrics and memorable beat, and remains a fan favorite to this day. It showcases 50 Ce
5. Many Men (Wish Death)
“Many Men (Wish Death)” is a song by 50 Cent, released in 2003 as a single from his debut studio album, “Get Rich or Die Tryin’.” The song features production by Darrell “Digga” Branch and is known for its haunting melody and powerful lyrics. In the song, 50 Cent talks about his brush with death and the enemies he’s made along the way. He emphasizes his resilience and determination to survive despite the odds against him. The song’s chorus features a sample from “The Massacre” by Barry White, adding to its impact. “Many Men (Wish Death)” received critical acclaim for its raw emotion and powerful storytelling, and remains one of 50 Cent’s most popular songs to this day. It showcases his talent as a rapper and storyteller and is a standout track in his discography.
6. Get Up
“Get Up” is a song by 50 Cent, released in 2008 as the lead single from his fourth studio album, “Before I Self Destruct.” The song features production by Scott Storch and showcases 50 Cent’s signature flow and style. In the song, 50 Cent talks about his ability to get up and keep going, no matter what challenges come his way. He emphasizes his toughness and resilience, and encourages his listeners to do the same. The song’s chorus features a sample from “Tainted Love” by Soft Cell, adding to its appeal. “Get Up” was a commercial success, reaching number 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and receiving widespread airplay on radio and television. It remains a fan favorite and a standout track in 50 Cent’s discography.
7. In Da Club
“In Da Club” is a hit single by 50 Cent, released in 2003 as the lead single from his debut studio album, “Get Rich or Die Tryin’.” The song features production by Dr. Dre and showcases 50 Cent’s unique flow and gritty lyrics. In the song, 50 Cent talks about his rise to fame and success in the music industry, and encourages his listeners to party and have a good time. The song’s chorus features a catchy hook, with 50 Cent proclaiming that “we gon’ party like it’s your birthday.” “In Da Club” was a commercial and critical success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and staying in the top 10 for several weeks. It remains one of 50 Cent’s most popular songs and is considered a classic of the early 2000s hip-hop era.
8. I Get Money
“I Get Money” is a song by 50 Cent, released in 2007 as the third single from his third studio album, “Curtis.” The song features production by Apex and showcases 50 Cent’s braggadocious lyrics and confident flow. In the song, 50 Cent talks about his wealth and success in the music industry, emphasizing his ability to make money and live a lavish lifestyle. The song’s chorus features a catchy hook, with 50 Cent proclaiming that “I get money, money I got.” “I Get Money” was a commercial success, reaching number 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and receiving widespread airplay on radio and television. It remains a fan favorite and a standout track in 50 Cent’s discography, showcasing his talent as a rapper and his knack for crafting catchy hooks and memorable lyrics.
9. 21 Questions
“21 Questions” is a hit single by 50 Cent, released in 2003 as the second single from his debut studio album, “Get Rich or Die Tryin’.” The song features Nate Dogg on the chorus and is produced by Dr. Dre. It is known for its mellow beat and romantic lyrics, with 50 Cent asking his love interest a series of questions to see if she’s the right one for him. The song’s chorus features a catchy hook, with Nate Dogg singing “I love you like a fat kid loves cake.” “21 Questions” was a commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and staying in the top 10 for several weeks. It also received critical acclaim for its introspective lyrics and catchy melody. “21 Questions” remains one of 50 Cent’s most popular songs and is considered a classic of the early 2000s hip-hop era.
10. Just A Lil Bit
“Just A Lil Bit” is a single by 50 Cent, released in 2005 as the third single from his second studio album, “The Massacre.” The song features production by Scott Storch and showcases 50 Cent’s signature flow and catchy lyrics. In the song, 50 Cent talks about his ability to charm women with just a little bit of effort, emphasizing his confidence and swagger. The song’s chorus features a memorable hook, with 50 Cent singing “Just a lil bit” to his love interest. “Just A Lil Bit” was a commercial success, reaching number three on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and staying in the top 10 for several weeks. It also received critical acclaim for its catchy melody and infectious beat. The song remains a fan favorite and a standout track in 50 Cent’s discography, showcasing his talent as a rapper and his ability to craft hit songs.