Basic Information
Name: Curtis James Jackson III
Date of Birth: July 6, 1975
Nationality: American
Profession: Rapper, Actor, Television Producer, Entrepreneur
Social Media Links:
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Biography
Curtis James Jackson III, known globally as 50 Cent, was born on July 6, 1975, in the South Jamaica neighborhood of Queens, New York. Raised by his mother, Sabrina, who was a drug dealer, Jackson faced a tumultuous childhood. After his mother's untimely death when he was just eight years old, he was brought up by his grandparents.
In his teenage years, Jackson became involved in the drug trade, which led to multiple run-ins with the law. However, in 1996, he decided to pivot towards music, seeing it as a path to a better life. Adopting the stage name "50 Cent," a metaphor for change, he began crafting his unique style in the rap scene.
In 2000, just as his career was gaining momentum, Jackson was shot nine times outside his grandmother's home. Miraculously, he survived, and this life-altering event became a pivotal point in his life, fueling his determination to succeed in the music industry.
His breakthrough came in 2002 when his mixtape Guess Who's Back? caught the attention of Eminem and Dr. Dre. Impressed by his raw talent and compelling story, they signed him to Shady Records and Aftermath Entertainment. In 2003, Jackson released his debut album, Get Rich or Die Tryin', which was both a commercial and critical success, solidifying his place in the hip-hop world.
Beyond music, Jackson ventured into acting and entrepreneurship. He starred in films like Get Rich or Die Tryin' (2005) and Righteous Kill (2008). He also founded G-Unit Films in 2003, showcasing his versatility in the entertainment industry.
Jackson's business acumen led him to invest in various ventures, including a notable stake in Vitaminwater, which reportedly earned him a substantial profit when the company was sold to Coca-Cola. He also launched his own line of headphones, SMS Audio, and ventured into the spirits industry with his brand of champagne, Le Chemin du Roi.
Career Timeline
1996: Begins pursuing a career in music.
2000: Survives a near-fatal shooting; debut album Power of the Dollar remains unreleased.
2002: Releases mixtape Guess Who's Back?, attracting attention from Eminem and Dr. Dre.
2003: Releases debut album Get Rich or Die Tryin', achieving massive success.
2005: Releases second album The Massacre; stars in semi-autobiographical film Get Rich or Die Tryin'.
2007: Releases third album Curtis.
2009: Releases fourth album Before I Self Destruct.
2014: Releases fifth album Animal Ambition.
2014: Begins producing and starring in the television series Power.
2023: Announces 20th-anniversary tour for Get Rich or Die Tryin'.
Achievements
Awards & Recognition:
Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group (2009).
Billboard Music Award for Album of the Year (2003).
World Music Award for World's Best Selling Hip Hop/Rap Artist (2007).
Philanthropic Work:
Founded the G-Unity Foundation, which supports programs fostering social and leadership skills for youth nationwide.
Key Quotes / Catchphrases
"Get rich or die tryin'."
"Now is the time to stop drifting and wake up—to assess yourself, the people around you, and the direction in which you are headed in as cold and brutal a light as possible. Without fear."
"Never be a minion, always be an owner."
