Hip-Hop: 50 Cent

Born amid poverty and crime on the hard streets of South Jamaica in New York City, Curtis James Jackson III started dealing drugs by the age of 11. He was arrested twice and saw little in his future but violence and prison. To forge a better life, he turned to rap. Under the guidance of MC Jam Master Jay, Jackson soon became a rising star in the world of hip-hop.Taking the name 50 Cent, his work came to the attention of rap superstars Eminem and Dr. Dre, who signed him to a $1 million recording contract. Now 50 Cent's albums sell in the millions. He has signed endorsement deals and branched off into Hollywood acting. Considered one of the few true gangstas in rap, his real experiences are reflected in the music he produces. This authenticity makes him one of the most recognizable stars of hip-hop in the world.