50 Cent Becomes Independent Artist

Grammy-winning rapper 50 Cent announced on Thursday (Feb. 20) that he’s leaving his longtime record label, Universal Music Group’s Interscope Records, and Eminem’s label, Shady/Aftermath. After releasing four albums under the major label, including 2003’s debut “Get Rich or Die Tryin”, which sold an impressive six million copies, 2005’s “The Massacre”, 2007’s “Curtis” and 2009’s “Before I Self Destruct”, 50 Cent has decided to become an independent artist.

“I have had great success to date with Shady/Aftermath/Interscope and I’d like to thank Eminem and Dr. Dre for giving me an incredible opportunity,” said 50 in a press release. “I’ve learned so much from them through the years. I am excited to enter this new era where I can carry out my creative vision.”

The “In Da Club” rapper and his G-Unit Records have signed a distribution agreement with Caroline, a subsidiary of Capitol Music Group, one of the many labels that are part of Universal Music Group. Capitol is excited about the new partnership with 50.

“We are thrilled to welcome 50 Cent and G-Unit to our family. 50 is simply one of the most accomplished and creative artists, and his plans for the future are as exciting and innovative as you can imagine,” said Caroline President Dominic Pandiscia. “I deeply thank him for his belief in our team and what we can do to help support his creative vision in the years to come.”

50 Cent’s decision to embark on a new journey as an independent artist follows many years of bumping heads with executives at Interscope Records, who have failed to release his fifth studio album, “Street King Immortal”. The album has been delayed numerous times, and is most likely the main reason why 50 and Interscope Records have decided to part ways.

Back in January of 2003, 50 Cent released “In Da Club,” the lead single from his successful debut album “Get Rich or Die Tryin” and his first No. 1 hit. Watch the music video, which won Best Rap Video and Best New Artist at the 2003 MTV Video Music Awards, below.