50 Cent
50 Cent/Nicole Scherzinger/Young Buck Lyrics

The opening lyrics of 50 Cent's eponymous song immediately set the stage for the gritty and violent world that is being portrayed. The two quarters falling onto a table could be interpreted as a metaphor for the fragmented and disposable nature of human life in this world. The sound of the gun being loaded and cocked adds to the tension and sense of danger that pervades the song. Through their lyrics, 50 Cent, Eminem, and Nate Dogg are depicting a world where violence and power reign supreme, and where individuals must be constantly ready to defend themselves or risk being destroyed.

As the song progresses, the lyrics become more explicit in detailing the harsh realities of this world. 50 Cent's verse speaks of his criminal past and his willingness to do whatever it takes to survive in this environment. Eminem's verse delves into the psychological toll that living in this world can take on a person, describing a cycle of violence and paranoia that is difficult to break free from. Nate Dogg's chorus serves as a reminder that even in this violent and chaotic world, love and human connection are still possible.

Despite the dark subject matter, the song has become a classic in hip hop, lauded for its raw honesty and unflinching portrayal of the realities of ghetto life. It has also become an iconic example of the early 2000s gangster rap sound, characterized by hard-hitting beats and aggressive rhymes.