Arguably the most significant project in 50 Cent’s career, “Guess Who’s Back?” was released in April 2002. Unlike a typical mixtape, it was more of an independent release. After being shot and dropped by Columbia Records, it was seen as 50’s second chance. The project gained attention when Eminem came into possession of it through a friendship between Paul Rosenberg and 50’s attorney at the time. This led to the groundbreaking 1-million-dollar deal between G-Unit, Shady Records, Aftermath, and Interscope. Due to being blacklisted in the US, 50 decided to record this project in Canada. It featured key songs that would eventually be on his original debut album, “Power of the Dollar,” which was ultimately shelved. Notable tracks include “Ghetto Qu’ran,” which sparked controversy in his hometown, “Life’s on the Line,” a diss track that initiated a feud with Ja Rule, and “U Not Like Me,” which made it to his official major-label debut, “Get Rich or Die Tryin’.” Surprisingly, it peaked at #28 on the Billboard 200, an impressive feat for an underground project without significant marketing support. This demonstrated 50’s immense power and the strength of his music, capable of breaking through any gatekeepers of the time. The project generated widespread buzz on the streets and ignited a frenzy on the internet!
