Dogged by controversy since his first appearance in the music arena, 50 Cent has defied the critics and skeptics and now holds the title of 2005’s highest selling album in the United States with The Massacre (Universal), beating out fellow chart toppers Green Day, Mariah Carey and Kelly Clarkson. 50 Cent is also the first recording artist since the Beatles (in 1964) to have four songs in the US Top 10 on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart.
His debut film, also titled Get Rich or Die Tryin’, recently took US$12.5 million on its opening day in the States. Based around 50 Cent’s life and directed by Jim Sheridan, the film will be released in Australia on January 12 (through UIP).
Over the last year 50 Cent has toured extensively through the US and Europe and has blown the rooftop off countless venues.
The Virginian Pilot wrote of his August 2005 Virginia Beach concert; “as 50 tore through his many hits like “Disco Inferno,” “Wanksta” and “Candy Shop”…one just could not hate him.
“The buzz was too strong; the fans — young, old, black and white — were screaming too loud. He wore a command of the stage and a professionalism that a performer who didn’t deserve it would not have.”
Joining 50 Cent in Australia and New Zealand are his infamous clique and multi-platinum album selling G Unit.
For the Australian shows “King Of Krunk” Lil Jon & The BME Click will join the tour while Sydney trio Bliss n Eso and Melbourne lads Weapon X & Ken Hell round out the night.
No stranger to touring alongside major international acts, Bliss n Eso have hit the road in the past with the likes of Cypress Hill, Naughty By Nature, Jurassic 5 and The Roots. Already a favourite on JJJ and commercial airwaves, Bliss n Eso are sure to win even more fans throughout the course of the 50 Cent tour.
Then there’s Melbourne lads Weapon X & Ken Hell. Without doubt, they’ve had a huge year. Not only have they released their debut album SNEAKERPIMPIN AINT EASY (Illusive) but they also received their first ARIA nomination and toured extensively on the massive Coke Live ‘n Local Tour 05.
In New Zealand, Frontline's Dave Dallas and Nick Maclaren head up the
local contingent. Constantly on the road plying their trade, the duo's
debut album Borrowed Time (Dirty Records) has just hit stores across the
country. Stay tuned for news on more Kiwi supports.
All in all these concerts are going to be MASSIVE and with definitely just the one 50 Cent show only in each city tickets aren’t expected to last for long. For his fans in Christchurch, Wellington, Adelaide and Perth this will be their first taste of 50 Cent live!
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