The 50th Law w/ Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson

On Wednesday September 9, 50 Cent, one of the most controversial rappers/entrepreneurs of all time, visited the Howard University Campus to promote his new book, The 50th Law. Curtis Jackson, whose career has gained notoriety from his feuds with famous rap personalities such as Ja Rule, Jadakiss, Fat Joe, and Cam'ron visited the campus with co-author Robert Greene, the famed psychologist and author of many books such as The 48 Laws of Power and The Art of Seduction. His appearance, which took place in Cramton Auditorium, drew a respectable crowd of fans, opponents, and non-biased students who just wanted to learn more about the man behind the moniker.

Before 50 took the stage, Greene came out to give those in attendance basic background information on Jackson and a glimpse of what their book was all about. By the time Greene finished with the introduction, many members of the crowd, who were eagerly anticipating the arrival of 50 Cent (who was approx. 30 minutes late), were more than excited to see the rapper and hear what he had to say. When 50 finally made his debut, most of the crowd erupted into applause and spontaneous picture-taking. After he addressed the crowd, 50 took his seat and the long awaited forum began.
Overall, I was impressed with what Mr. Jackson had to say. While most people might have a distorted perception of the so-called "gangsta" rapper, my view on him was positively changed after the colloquium had concluded. 50 Cent presented himself as a well-informed, well-rounded individual. As someone who came from the humblest of upbringings, his intellectual prowess proved that the common phrase "I'm a product of my environment" is no longer a valid excuse for one not reaching their fullest potential. For someone who has been a member of the corporate community for less than a decade, he appeared to be quite knowledgeable in the fields of business and investing. A choice selection of budding entrepreneurs from the Howard community got a taste of 50's investment expertise after he viewed a number of business pitches and had to choose which one he thought was the best. I applaud all who participated in the contest and congratulate the freshman Biology major who won (Biology majors stand up!)

Of course, 50 Cent, like his usual controversial self, had to stir up the crowds somehow. He accomplished this with statements made about successful rapper Lil' Wayne. While 50 was speaking about rappers who fabricated stories about their background in order to gain credibility, someone in the crowd shouted "Weezy!" This led 50 to comment about the fact that Weezy has been in the spotlight since the age of 13 or 14. He then questioned the audience as to how all of Weezy's rhymes regarding his street life could possibly be true if Weezy has been on TV from such a young age. Check out this video that a member of the audience recorded: http://www.worldstarhiphop.com/videos/video.php?v=wshhuOIud8u7H1Hep130
After 50 and Greene were finished speaking about their book, they allowed the audience to ask questions, most of them directed towards the rapper. Although the moderator instructed the audience that only one question per person was allowed, many people disregarded his plea, leading to many people not being able to ask potentially good questions. Several audience members had well thought out inquiries while the majority used their time to give shout-outs, promote demo tapes, or otherwise make a mockery of the open-forum. I, myself, was quite embarrassed that students at such a premier institution of higher learning would conduct themselves in such manner. I was excited that 50 availed himself to the audience for autograph signing and picture taking. Even though I didn't get an autograph, I was satisfied with the pictures I was able to take. (even though the quality of the pictures wasn't the best =] )