OK, I admit it. I like 50 Cent.

I typically do not like recent rap music. Old stuff I like, yes–Beastie Boys, Run DMC, NWA, Cypress Hill, Public Enemy; and on up to Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, and Eminem. I couldn’t get into Biggie, Puff, Tupac on up to Wu Tang and Outkast.

I’ve heard a bit about 50 in years past. I don’t think I’ve actually heard any of his music until recently, but I’ve heard of him, and heard people talking about him. Then I saw his “Candyshop” video on one of the MTVs or VH1s or BETs.

Candyshop has an infectious beat, not to mention extremely hot chicks, particularly fellow G-Unit member Olivia. This being the only song I’ve heard of 50’s up to this point, it was still not enough for me to get any of his albums.

Then I saw a VH1 special on 50. He threw a big party at his new house in a very expensive neighborhood. He invited all his friends and industry insiders and… his neighbors! Hehe I thought that was pretty cool.

All his neighbors appeared to be well-to-do white folks. Moms and daughters showed up and 50 personally showed them around the house, introducing them to G-Unit and other friends. He was very friendly and nice. Hmmm, maybe there’s more to 50 than his gangsta image?

So I’ve been paying more attention to 50 Cent lately. This guy sure does smile a lot. In his videos, interviews, and cameos on other friend’s videos he sports a smile instead of a scowl. He’s a soft-spoken young man of 28, with a boyish smile and a somewhat calm demeanor. This is not what I expected in a hardcore gangsta rapper.

Today I picked up his new album, Massacre, and listened to it non-stop for hours. His delivery fits the image I have of 50 in real life–calm, never angry, never yelling. I don’t like every song, no. So far I’ve heard three potential singles. Besides “Candyshop” there is the obvious dance/club song “Disco Inferno” and “Just A Lil Bit”.

OK I’m done playing music journalist.