Attention all hip hop lovers: the showdown begins shortly! Anyone who knows music or hip hop should know about the recent spat between 50 Cent (Curtis Jackson) and Kanye West. They are both releasing albums on September 11th. I think it is a smart idea to release their albums on that day to help the American public focus their attention on something other than the tragic events of 9/11.
Being a music fanatic, I have followed this dispute between 50 and Kanye since the beginning. 50 was first to announce his release date of September 11th. Kanye soon followed, pushing his album up to the same date, basically declaring war (according to 50). I love when rappers have showdowns. It creates great excitement and tension and shows who truly is the people's favorite. 50 Cent is adamant in his ways that he is the sure winner. He claims that he will not only win but it will be a landslide victory.
Kanye begs to differ and I think that the world agrees with him. I honestly have no idea who will have a better release date and sell the most records. I do know that so far Kanye is looking to be the winner. His latest single, "Stronger," has been number one on iTunes for at least a week. 50 is nowhere near the top ten, giving Kanye a significant head start. This could also mean that 50's fans are waiting for the actual release date. 50 has more "hood" appeal while Kanye seems to stand out in the "commercial" aspect. It will surely be a tight race to see which side of the block will represent.
Both rappers clearly have no problem selling millions of records. When 50 burst onto the rap scene, he was an instant success, with the help of mega producers Dr. Dre and Eminem. Kanye had already established himself as a producer for the likes of Jay-Z and others. He has since won a Grammy. Upon dropping his first album, he skyrocketed to fame. His lyrical style was like no other. Same goes for his unique clothing choices. The funny thing is, both rappers have trademark voices due to their pasts. 50 was shot nine times before becoming famous, including a shot in the jaw that makes his words slightly slurred -- a mark that lets him stand out above the rest. Kanye was in a serious car accident that left his jaw in shambles, giving his voice a distinguishable sound as well.
50 Cent raised the tension when he declared that he would "never make a solo album again" if Kanye were to outsell him. Talk about a statement of confidence! I am hesitant in giving 50 his victory this early in the game. If Kanye's iTunes sales are any indication of how September 11th's showdown will unfold, 50 may be in serious trouble. I can tell you this -- I will be buying both CDs on the 11th. Who will win is the real question. Who will represent when it really matters?
In my personal opinion, Kanye is just a little fresher. He's got my vote. What about yours?