By Hardcore Critic
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
Last week, 50 Cent released his fifth studio album, 5 (Murder by Numbers), showing how far he has come in a relative short period of time. A decade ago, few outside of New York City knew who 50 Cent was. However, before the end of the year, 50 Cent would become the biggest phenomenon rap had seen in years.
During the summer of 2003, 50 Cent officially rose from a popular mixtape rapper to the biggest star in the game. Much of 50 Cent’s success came at the expense of Ja Rule, who had been labeled as “soft” by 50 Cent. Ironically, his second consecutive chart-topper, “21 Questions,” is a song fans would have expected from Ja Rule.
At a time when every other hip hop news story revolved around the growing feud between 50 Cent and Ja Rule, it would be 50 to lighten the mood. Recruiting hardcore hip hop crooner, Nate Dogg, for his hood love ballad, 50 Cent crafted an unforgettable single. Though the song lacked the energy of “In da Club,” the slow, seductive, beat remains in the memories of many.
The music video was also memorable, as then-rising actress, Meagan Good, played opposite of 50 Cent. Nine years after the release of the single, “21 Questions” remains very popular. “21 Questions” is notable as one of the biggest singles in the career of the late Nate Dogg.
Watch “21 Questions” by 50 Cent ft. Nate Dogg below:
