50 Cent

50 Cent released his debut studio album 'Get Rich or Die Tryin'' on February 6, 2003. The album was a massive success and catapulted him to fame. It debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, selling over 872,000 copies in the first week. It is considered a classic in the hip-hop genre and featured hit singles like 'In Da Club', which topped the charts around the world. The album's production was primarily handled by Dr. Dre and Eminem, and it received widespread critical acclaim.

50 Cent released his second studio album 'The Massacre' on March 3, 2005. The album was highly anticipated following the success of his debut and debuted at number 1 on the US Billboard 200. It sold 1.14 million copies in its first four days, making it the sixth-largest opening week for an album at the time. It featured hit singles such as 'Candy Shop' and 'Disco Inferno'. However, the album received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising its production but criticizing its lyrical content.

50 Cent released his third studio album 'Curtis' on September 11, 2007. The album was part of a highly publicized sales battle with Kanye West's 'Graduation'. 'Curtis' debuted at number 2 on the US Billboard 200, selling 691,000 copies in its first week. The album had singles such as 'Ayo Technology' and 'I Get Money'. Despite strong sales, 'Curtis' received mixed reviews from critics. The album is notable for the shift in 50 Cent's career towards a more mainstream sound.

On September 11, 2007, 50 Cent and Kanye West both released albums, leading to a much-publicized sales battle in the music industry. 50 Cent released his third studio album 'Curtis', while Kanye West released 'Graduation'. 50 Cent famously mentioned that he would retire if West's album outsold his in the first week. 'Graduation' eventually outsold 'Curtis' with 957,000 copies to 691,000 in the U.S., marking a pivotal moment in hip-hop where West's style was seen overshadowing the gangsta rap persona of 50 Cent.

In September 2008, 50 Cent ventured into the beverage industry by signing a deal with Effen Vodka. This was part of his efforts to expand his business portfolio beyond music. The partnership brought significant publicity to the brand, leveraging 50 Cent's charismatic endorsement and presence in the liquor market. This deal marked an important step in 50 Cent's career as a businessman, diversifying his investments and expanding his brand's influence in the lifestyle and entertainment sectors.

On November 16, 2009, 50 Cent released his fourth studio album 'Before I Self Destruct'. Unlike his previous two albums, this album did not attain the same level of commercial success. It debuted at number five on the Billboard 200 chart, selling 160,000 copies in its first week. The album was accompanied by a film of the same name, written and directed by 50 Cent. Despite the album's less impressive sales figures, it was praised for returning to the darker themes of his earlier work.

On June 11, 2010, 50 Cent made his film debut with the crime drama film 'Twelve', directed by Joel Schumacher. In the film, he played the role of a drug dealer. Although the film did not receive positive reviews, his performance was notable as it marked the beginning of his transition from music to acting. This move was seen as part of his effort to build a diverse career in entertainment.

In 2014, 50 Cent announced his departure from Interscope Records, the label with which he had released his first four albums. This was a significant move for 50 Cent as it marked his transition to releasing music independently. He mentioned that the departure was amicable and part of his desire to explore more creative and business opportunities. By launching his own independent label, G-Unit Records, he gained greater control over his music and the revenues it generated.

On July 13, 2015, 50 Cent filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection amidst financial troubles. He cited debts of over $32 million and assets worth less than $20 million, which prompted the filing for protection. This announcement followed a court ruling ordering him to pay $7 million to Lastonia Leviston, and $18 million to Sleek Audio. The filing allowed him to reorganize his finances and pay off debts over time, while maintaining his business operations. His bankruptcy proceedings were extensively covered in the media.

In May 2017, a judge dismissed 50 Cent's bankruptcy case after he successfully paid off his debts. The rapper initially filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in July 2015, citing debts of $36 million and assets of less than $20 million. However, by 2017, 50 Cent paid more than $22 million in a five-year period. His financial recovery demonstrated his robust business acumen and diverse investments, which included ventures in the entertainment, beverage, and technology sectors.