50 Cent

You can say this much for 50 Cent: The man knows how to make an entrance. Before he released the uproariously cunning single "How to Rob," few knew this Queens, NY, native even existed. But by naming names and placing his own persona deep in the middle of a non-existent battle (specifically, casting hip-hop stars as targets for 50 Cent's hardcore, comedic robbing spree), he assured himself a place among the industry's most illustrious performers. After all, a challenge rarely goes unanswered in hip-hop circles and when that gauntlet is raised, the best retaliation is a lyrical one. Thus setting the stage for his own legend to emerge, 50 Cent recorded a powerful debut CD to prove he was no one-hit wonder. Tracks on Power of the Dollar utilize penetrating wit and funk-infused beats, accompanied by grand orchestrations of commanding horns, pronounced percussion, and various string elements. "Slow Doe" features Latin guitar grooves and "Your Life's on the Line" conveys street life through hard, violent rhythms. Using a New York "double-time" rap style, 50 Cent presents his verbal art as a visceral and bold experience. But when he was shot two months before the album's projected release, Columbia shelved the entire project and released 50 Cent from his contract. ~ Roxanne Blanford, All Music Guide