50 Cent Delivers Nostalgic Performance Full of Hits

It seems like just yesterday that 50 Cent was a chart-topping sensation, but now, two decades since the release of Get Rich or Die Tryin', the rapper, born Curtis Jackson III, embarked on what he calls The Final Lap tour. Despite his evolution into a mogul and actor, as 50 Cent, the performer, he remains true to his roots with a show full of the tight, funky rhythms and straightforward lyrical flows that catapulted him to fame, underscoring themes of sex, drugs, and street life.

A Dynamic Start

At the Qudos Bank Arena on December 8, despite a technical hiccup with the smoke detectors, 50 Cent dived into the set energetically. Hits like What Up Gangsta and I Get Money set a bold, confident tone for the night, capturing the essence of his renowned machismo.

A Show of Entertainment

The performance was heightened by the presence of hard-working dancers and impressive stage effects, which included everything from vibrant lights to explosive pyrotechnics. Although 50's vocals have the tendency to become monotonous, his skill at crafting hooks and his method of swiftly transitioning between tracks keeps the audience captivated.

The Peak of the Show

The midpoint of the concert delivered peak hedonism with dance-inducing tracks like P.I.M.P. and Candy Shop. In a change of pace, the more solemn 21 Questions showcased his ability to connect on a more intimate level, though the return to high-energy hits like Just a Lil Bit and In da Club wasn't far behind.

The Encore

For the hardcore fans, the encore was a treat with a selection of covers and lesser-known tracks. The night concluded with a fiery rendition of I’ll Whip Ya Head Boy, reminding the fans of the rapper's lasting influence on hip-hop.

It may be bittersweet to think of 50 Cent's work as throwback hits, but the artist knows how to shine them up and present them as golden oldies one more time.

performance, nostalgia, hits