In a recent interview, rapper 50 Cent revealed that he almost missed out on the 2022 Super Bowl halftime show, and it was fellow rapper Eminem who ensured his participation. According to 50 Cent, Roc Nation, the entertainment company producing the halftime show, initially did not want him to be a part of it. However, Eminem insisted that he would only perform if 50 Cent was included. As a result, 50 Cent made a surprise appearance during the halftime show, performing his hit song “In da Club” upside-down, a nod to his iconic 2003 music video.
The Super Bowl halftime show also featured performances by hip-hop legends Dr. Dre, Mary J. Blige, Snoop Dogg, and Kendrick Lamar. The halftime show was produced by Jay-Z’s Roc Nation, with whom 50 Cent has had a longstanding feud. Despite their differences, 50 Cent acknowledged that Jay-Z and his team ultimately included him in the show to secure Eminem’s participation. The dynamic performance at the SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, left the audience in awe, especially with 50 Cent’s unexpected appearance and gravity-defying performance.
The 2022 halftime show was a result of Roc Nation’s partnership with the NFL, which began in 2019. This collaboration faced criticism due to the NFL’s treatment of Colin Kaepernick, who famously protested against racial injustice and police brutality by taking a knee during the national anthem in 2016. Kaepernick’s activism led to his departure from the NFL, and he later settled a legal case against the league. Eminem, who has been an ally of 50 Cent since signing him to his record label in the early 2000s, also made a statement by taking a knee during his performance at the Super Bowl.
Despite previous tension with Jay-Z and Roc Nation, 50 Cent maintained a positive attitude towards the halftime show and his surprise appearance. He praised Eminem for his unwavering support and camaraderie, emphasizing the importance of their friendship and mutual respect. Eminem echoed these sentiments, describing 50 Cent as a brother and a talented individual who consistently delivers exceptional performances. The collaboration between these two rap icons, along with other hip-hop legends, created a memorable halftime show that celebrated their collective talent and legacy in the music industry.
Overall, 50 Cent’s revelation about nearly missing out on the 2022 Super Bowl halftime show sheds light on the behind-the-scenes negotiations and complex relationships within the music industry. Despite initial opposition, Eminem’s insistence on including 50 Cent in the lineup led to a remarkable performance that captivated audiences and showcased the enduring bond between these influential artists. The collaboration between Roc Nation and the NFL, while controversial, provided a platform for artists to express themselves and address important social issues, adding depth and meaning to the halftime show.
