The Hollywood Reporter‘s latest interview with 50 Cent made headlines across media on Wednesday. And with a well-documented resume of career-ending rap battles, he shared his thoughts on the iconic battle between Drake and Kendrick Lamar held in May. According to 50, Drake didn’t suffer a loss in the beef, contrary to cultural perception.
“This is hip-hop. It’s inherently competitive. Even Drake, with his position and choices, embodies the same approach I did,” 50 Cent told journalist Mesfin Fekadu. “‘F–k it, everybody has to get it.’ When it’s Drake versus Kendrick, it’s because Kendrick’s the only one whose success rivals Drake’s.”
Drake’s long and dominating career has put him in a position where other rappers want to see him fall, hoping to get their own chance. Many of the criticisms aimed at Drake’s artistry are unfounded, according to 50 Cent.
“Our culture loves to watch someone rise because it confirms that they too can rise,” he explained. “But when you stay on top for too long, people start wondering, ‘When are you going to fall so I can have my chance?’ This brings about a cloud of doubt from the artist community. They’ll say, ‘His new stuff is good, but it’s not like his old stuff.’ That’s the backlash from success, from consistency. I don’t see a loss for Drake. His fans will continue to support him with every new release.”
Relating to his past beefs, 50 believes Drake will bounce back after Kendrick Lamar because it wasn’t a career-ending situation. “The way I handle things can ruin your entire career,” said 50.
50 Cent and Drake hung out while the mogul was in Toronto a few weeks ago. 50 shared that the two had plans to collaborate on Instagram. The mogul’s post was captioned, “Brain [brain emoji], storming last night me and @champagnepapi gonna get the [film emoji], rolling biggest ting on your TV GLG [streelight emoji] GreenLightGang @bransoncognac @lecheminduroi.”