Those who think rappers’ brains are not worth a nickel might wish their own brain
s were worth 50 cent. Recently, in a deal for the sale of Glaceau (makers of Vitamin Water) to Coca-Cola, 50 Cent (aka Curtis Jackson) netted himself a cool $400 million resulting from his 10% ownership stake in the company. That puts him on the map with the likes of Michael Jordan, Bob Johnson, Jay-Z and Oprah Winfrey when it comes to “sittin on swoll” with his bank account.
Whether you like “Fiddy”, feel he’s ignorant, or think he’s a jerk, you have to respect the fact that he represents the hard working, relentless “hustler’s mentality” which exists in the minds of many black male rappers. Their entrepreneurial spirit is stronger than that of most doctors, lawyers and professors, who simply work hard so they can work for someone else. The hip hop community has been ostracized by the rest of society, including many black female groups, church groups, conservatives and damn near everyone else. These men are written off as gold-chain wearing, sexist loudmouths without a brain cell in their collective skull. Some of this criticism is warranted, as the genre could certainly use some adjustments. But some critiques are just flat out haterology and the same kind of racism that causes the rest of America to diss the black male, especially if he is from poverty, uneducated or not affiliated with the church.
“Fiddy’s” lyrics can be clearly problematic, and they are not forgiven. But there are many millions who are inspired by 50 Cent, and this must be acknowledged. A kid growing up without a nickel in his pocket, with drug dealers and drug addicts in his own house is likely to end up dead, in jail or on drugs. “Fiddy” made it out of that hell which would have killed most of us, and for this, he should be commended. What should also be recognized is the fact that he stands as an equally powerful symbol of hope for many millions of impoverished young boys who don’t connect with the Oprah Winfrey Show. A black boy in the hood is not likely to be inspired by a woman who has shows featuring celebrity puppies or the best Tupperware for the fall season. Oprah and others don’t respect the rappers, but there are a lot of people who do.
My point is not to say that 50 Cent is perfect, nor is Oprah completely imperfect. It is important to recognize that these are two outstanding individuals who worked hard to make it out of their circumstances. Oprah was 14 and pregnant, 50 Cent was shot 9 times. The only thing worse would be to get shot 9 times right before giving birth. As a Finance Professor, a black man and an advocate of black ownership and wealth building, I personally feel that both of these people are off the charts.
50 Cent is no longer rich. He is now WEALTHY. He’s not singing for cash, he’s making a splash. His recent song entitled “Straight to the bank” is right on target. Those aiming their guns at hip hop are not. No one is beyond criticism, but props should be given where they are due. Keep pimpin 50, I’m proud of you. Now take your black butt to the bank.
Dr. Boyce Watkins is a Finance Professor at Syracuse University and host of the nationally-syndicated radio show “Boiling Hot with Boyce Watkins”. He is a regular commentator in national media, including CNN, FOX,
