Curtis James Jackson III, known professionally as 50 Cent, is an American rapper, actor, record executive, businessman, and television producer. Born in Queens, New York City, he started pursuing music in 1996. His debut album, Get Rich or Die Tryin', blended street narratives with melodic hooks, redefining the sound of the early 2000s. He's also released albums including The Massacre (2005), Curtis (2007), and Before I Self Destruct (2009).