In a recent interview with Billboard, rapper 50 Cent shared insights into the advice he offered fellow musician Drake following his high-profile confrontation with Kendrick Lamar. The discussion unfolded as part of an exploration of 50 Cent’s new Las Vegas deal, which will see him earning $15 million for six performances. The conversation quickly turned to the dynamics of longevity and competition within the hip-hop industry.
During the interview, 50 Cent reflected on his own experiences with competition, specifically recalling his rivalry with Kanye West in 2007. He noted the parallels between his career and Drake’s, emphasizing that both artists have faced significant pressure from the public and industry alike to maintain their positions at the top. He articulated how the hip-hop community often exhibits a tendency to root for an artist’s downfall as a means of creating space for emerging talent.
When asked about his conversation with Drake, 50 Cent encouraged him not to internalize the negativity surrounding his recent music. “I told him, it’s not him. I’m listening to the outskirts; it’s not you. Don’t let yourself think that for a second,” he said. He dismissed the notion that Drake had lost credibility as a result of the beef with Kendrick Lamar, highlighting that Drake’s financial success from his last tour—reportedly over $300 million—was a testament to his enduring appeal.
50 Cent pointed out that the competitive nature of the industry can often foster creativity, suggesting that the recent tensions between Drake and Kendrick Lamar might ultimately result in higher quality music. He remarked, “If you slow down because you feel what the resistance will make you feel like your material isn’t good, then you got to figure out how to keep pushing.”
The discussion also touched on the broader implications of lyrical content in hip-hop, with 50 Cent acknowledging that the genre’s audience has recently shown a renewed interest in substance and storytelling. He praised Kendrick Lamar’s work, calling it groundbreaking and indicative of a shift in what listeners value in hip-hop music.
As the interview concluded, 50 Cent reiterated his belief that the public’s perception of an artist can be misleading, particularly when they are met with criticism or perceived setbacks. He asserted that success in the industry should not be measured solely by chart performance or public opinion, but rather by an artist’s ability to keep creating and evolving.
The insights shared by 50 Cent not only reflect the challenges faced by established artists like Drake but also highlight the intricate relationship between competition and creativity in the ever-evolving landscape of hip-hop. As both artists navigate their careers, the lessons from their experiences may resonate with fans and fellow musicians alike, underscoring the importance of resilience in the face of industry pressures.