50 Cent has celebrated an incredible milestone, that has not only made us all feel very old but has also reminded us of how lengthy his amazing career has been. His now iconic track “In Da Club” first dropped eighteen years ago.

The smash hit first brought the world’s attention to the young rapper, seeing both the single and his album “Get Rich or Die Tryin” reach number 1 on Billboard’s charts. “In Da Club” also earned the best rap video honour at the 2004 MTV Video Music Awards, and he also took home the best new artist crown.  Most knew, even then, he would be destined for great things.

One person who definitely saw this coming, was his fellow rapper, Eminem. 50 Cent has credited the rap legend with giving him his first shot into the music foray, taking to Twitter to show his appreciation as he celebrated his milestone:

“You ain’t gonna believe this one but 18 years ago today I dropped a song I recorded in LA and it’s still spinning 1,000 times a week at radio currently sits at one billion YouTube views. I tell @eminem I love him for what he did for me, he put me on.”

The two rappers have shared a long friendship, often speaking candidly about their powerful bond and how they have supported each other through difficult times. 50 Cent is rumoured to be the voice of reason of the pair, providing Eminem with sound advice when he finds himself embroiled in feuds. 

Their collaborations are nothing short of masterful, with 2006’s “You Don’t Know” still earning massive streaming numbers even today. The track beautifully showcases both men’s vastly different rap styles, blending into an epic, melodic and catchy number. Released as part of “Eminem Presents the Re-Up” which landed in late 2006, it became a fast fan favourite.

It is truly touching and beautiful to see the fierce friendship Eminem and 50 Cent have shared over the years. That one rapper taking a chance to help another get his start in the business, has evolved into such a strong lifelong bond. And the music these two visionaries have created together has gifted us all immensely. 

Author: Harley Houghton

Harley Houghton is a writer and blogger, based in Melbourne, Australia. Her passions include music, especially metal, gaming and comics. Check out her blog www.harleysmadhouse.com and follow her on Twitter.