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The Massacre
The Massacre
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The Massacre
Studio album by
ReleasedMarch 8, 2005[1]
Recorded2004
Studio
  • 54 Sound (Ferndale, Michigan)
  • Record One (Los Angeles)
  • Trans Continental (Orlando, Florida)
  • Larrabee North (Hollywood)
  • Rock Central (Los Angeles)
  • RMP (Orlando)
Genre
Length77:22
Label
Producer
50 Cent chronology
Get Rich or Die Tryin'
(2003)
The Massacre
(2005)
Bulletproof
(2005)
Singles from The Massacre
  1. "Disco Inferno"
    Released: December 11, 2004
  2. "Candy Shop"
    Released: February 15, 2005
  3. "Just a Lil Bit"
    Released: May 17, 2005
  4. "Outta Control"
    Released: September 13, 2005

The Massacre is the second studio album by American rapper 50 Cent, released on March 8, 2005, via Interscope Records, Eminem's Shady Records, 50 Cent's G-Unit Records, and Dr. Dre's Aftermath Entertainment. With production from Dr. Dre, Eminem, Scott Storch, Sha Money XL and others, the album features guest appearances from G-Unit affiliates Tony Yayo, Olivia, Eminem and Jamie Foxx.

Preceded by the singles "Disco Inferno" and "Candy Shop", the album debuted atop the Billboard 200, selling 1.15 million copies in its first four days; it remained atop the chart for six weeks after its release. The Massacre received generally positive reviews from music critics, and was 50 Cent's second consecutive number one album on the chart. Following its release, the album spawned the Billboard Hot 100-top ten singles "Just A Lil Bit" and "Outta Control."

Background

[edit]

The original title for the album was revealed as The St. Valentine's Day Massacre, named after the 1929 Chicago gang murder spree known as Saint Valentine's Day Massacre. 50 Cent intended the album to be released on February 15, 2005, but Interscope was not interested. He leaked "Disco Inferno" in order to force their hand, and Interscope released it on March 7.[2]

Originally, songs intended for the album included "Hate It or Love It", "Higher" and "Special" but the songs were eventually given to the Game's The Documentary, causing a majority of The Massacre to be reworked.[3] Although, a G-Unit remix of "Hate it or Love It" appeared as a bonus track on this album.

After 50 Cent released the Game from his G-Unit Records imprint on live radio February 21, 2005, a shootout occurred.[4] Paul Rosenberg of Shady Records and Jimmy Iovine of Interscope worried that the album would underperform due to the negativity of the Hot 97 shooting. 50 and the Game later entered into a truce six days after The Massacre was released,[5][6] but their animosity rose up again after Game made fun of G-Unit at Hot 97's annual Summer Jam, where he first used the "G-Unot" insult, later turning to a boycott.[7]

Censorship

[edit]

The censored version of the album censors out most profanity, violence, and all drug content. The track "Gunz Come Out" has inconsistency in the editing, and contains some profanity. The opening intro removes the shooting sequence, and is cut down to 20 seconds. The album cover also removes guns in the background behind the rapper, being replaced by motifs and a gradient background.[8] In comparison, the album is not as heavily censored as his previous album Get Rich or Die Tryin' (2003).[9]

Production

[edit]

The instrumentation of the album closely mirrors that of its predecessor, incorporating string instruments and orchestral elements; however, cinematic themes are no longer the central focus. This album introduces numerous new musical components, including jazz rap and R&B influences that evoke the essence of early 1990s New York hip hop. A notable addition to the album's sound is the influence of Scott Storch, whose musical ideas infuse tracks like "Candy Shop" and "Just A Lil Bit" with Middle Eastern Arabic melodies layered over hard-hitting hip hop beats. Another notable but underrated addition to the album's sound is Buckwild's production on "I Don't Need 'Em", which uses a jazz rap instrumental. Furthermore, the album benefits from exceptional mixing, primarily attributed to Dr. Dre's involvement, as was the case with the previous album.The album's production credits include Bang Out, Bass Brothers, Black Jeruz, Buckwild, Cool & Dre, C. Styles, Cue Beats, Disco D, Dr. Dre, Eminem, Hi-Tek, J.R. Rotem, Luis Resto, Mike Elizondo, Needlz, Scott Storch, and Sha Money XL.

Commercial performance

[edit]

With a release in the middle of the sales week, The Massacre sold 1.15 million copies in its first four days of release, becoming the sixth-largest opening week for an album at the time since Nielsen SoundScan began tracking sales in 1991.[10] This is the second largest opening week for a hip hop album, behind Eminem's The Marshall Mathers LP (2000), which sold 1.76 million copies in its first week.[11] Mariah Carey's The Emancipation of Mimi replaced it as number one in late April 2005, as The Massacre reached 3 million units sold.[12] In 2025, The Massacre was certified seven times platinum for combined sales and album-equivalent units of at least seven million copies in the United States.[13] It has sold over twelve million copies worldwide.[14][15]

In 2005, The Massacre was ranked as the number one album of the year on the Billboard 200.[16]

Critical reception

[edit]
Professional ratings
Aggregate scores
SourceRating
Metacritic66/100[17]
Review scores
SourceRating
AllMusicStarStarStarHalf star[18]
BlenderStarStarStarStar[19]
Entertainment WeeklyB−[20]
The GuardianStar[21]
Los Angeles TimesStarStarStar[22]
NME8/10[23]
Pitchfork7.0/10[24]
Rolling StoneStarStarStarStar[25]
SpinB−[26]
The Village VoiceA−[27]

The Massacre received generally positive reviews from music critics; it holds a score of 66 out of 100 at Metacritic.[17] Vibe magazine found it "full of finger-pointing panache" and wrote that "50 delivers a taut, albeit less explosive, album aimed at both silencing his detractors and keeping the ladies satisfied".[28] NME observed "a new depth to the murderous lyricism" from 50 Cent on the album.[23] Greg Tate, writing in The Village Voice, said that, like Tupac, 50 Cent is "a ruffian who knows the value of a good pop hook", and called The Massacre "the most diabolically sensous collection of baby-making gangsta music since Pac's All Eyez."[29] Kelefa Sanneh of The New York Times found the album to be "nearly as addictive as its predecessor" and called 50 Cent "a crafty songwriter, specializing in obvious but nearly irresistible tracks that sound better the more you hear them."[30] In his review for The Village Voice, Robert Christgau said that 50 Cent's "ugly gangsta lies" are "incidental to the mood of the piece, which is friendly, relaxed, good-humored, and in the groove."[27]

In a mixed review, Nathan Rabin of The A.V. Club said that, although its strengths lie in 50 Cent's "dark charisma" and "fluid delivery", the album is marred by flaws typical of "big rap releases: At nearly 78 minutes, it's far too long, wildly uneven, and not particularly cohesive sonically or thematically."[31] Uncut magazine wrote that, despite 50 Cent's "cool menace", "not even tight productions from Eminem and Dre can stop things from flagging midway."[32] Lynne D. Johnson of Spin felt that it lacks "originality" and makes artistic concessions: "He's tryin' too hard to be everything to everybody."[26] In a negative review for The Guardian, Alexis Petridis panned him as a lyricist and felt that the album lacks "any of the factors that make the best gangsta rap disturbingly compelling ... There's nothing except a string of cliches so limited that repetition is unavoidable".[21]

Accolades

[edit]

The Massacre was nominated at the 2006 Grammy Awards for Best Rap Album,[33] but lost to Kanye West's Late Registration.[34] It was ranked the twenty fifth best album of the year by Rolling Stone.[35]

According to 50 Cent, the album received more mixed reviews than its predecessor Get Rich Or Die Tryin' because he was focused more on the hooks and song structure: "People fought love for the things they see are significant. Jimmy Iovine was a producer … he loves the significance of production. He loves Dre. I don’t give a fuck what I made … look, I made my whole second album as a 10-record. I knew they wasn’t my best verses but my choruses were right so I focused on my song structure."[36]

Track listing

[edit]
No.TitleWriter(s)Producer(s)Length
1."Intro (The Massacre)"Lindsay CollinsEminem0:41
2."In My Hood"
  • C. Styles
  • Bang Out
  • Eminem[a]
  • Resto[a]
3:51
3."This Is 50"
3:04
4."I'm Supposed to Die Tonight"
3:51
5."Piggy Bank"
Needlz4:15
6."Gatman and Robbin" (featuring Eminem)
3:46
7."Candy Shop" (featuring Olivia)Scott Storch3:29
8."Outta Control"3:21
9."Get in My Car"Hi-Tek4:05
10."Ski Mask Way"
3:05
11."A Baltimore Love Thing"
  • Jackson
  • Quentin Staples
  • Norma Toney
Cue Beats4:17
12."Ryder Music"
  • Jackson
  • Cotrell
Hi-Tek3:51
13."Disco Inferno"
  • Jackson
  • Crawford
  • Pitts
  • C. Styles
  • Bang Out
3:34
14."Just a Lil Bit"
  • Jackson
  • Storch
Scott Storch3:57
15."Gunz Come Out"
  • Jackson
  • Young
  • Elizondo
  • Dr. Dre
  • Elizondo
4:24
16."My Toy Soldier" (featuring Tony Yayo)
3:44
17."Position of Power"
J.R. Rotem3:12
18."Build You Up" (featuring Jamie Foxx)
  • Jackson
  • Storch
Scott Storch2:55
19."God Gave Me Style"
Needlz3:01
20."So Amazing" (featuring Olivia)
  • Jackson
  • Rotem
  • Jasmin Lopez
J.R. Rotem3:16
21."I Don't Need 'Em"Buckwild3:20
22."Hate It or Love It (G-Unit Remix)" (bonus track; featuring The Game, Tony Yayo, Young Buck and Lloyd Banks)
Cool & Dre4:23
Total length:77:22
2006 France re-release bonus tracks[37]
No.TitleWriter(s)Producer(s)Length
21."Window Shopper"
  • Jackson
  • Crawford
  • J.H. Turnbull
  • Bob Marley
  • C. Styles
  • Sire
3:12
22."Best Friend" (featuring Olivia)JacksonHi-Tek4:14
Total length:84:48

Notes

  • ^[a] signifies an additional producer.
  • "Intro" is excluded from the 2006 France edition.[37]
Sample credits[38]
  • "Intro" contains elements from "What Up Gangsta" performed by 50 Cent.
  • "This Is 50" contains elements from "Things Done Changed" performed by The Notorious B.I.G.
  • "I'm Supposed to Die Tonight" contains vocal samples of "Vocal Planet" performed by Spectrasonics.
  • "Gatman and Robbin'" contains replayed elements from "Batman Theme" composed by Danny Elfman.
  • "Candy Shop" contains a sample of "Love Break" performed by The Salsoul Orchestra (uncredited).
  • "Outta Control" contains an interpolation from "Set It Off" performed by Strafe.
  • "Ski Mask Way" contains elements from "What Am I Waiting For" performed by The O'Jays and resung elements from "Cell Therapy" performed by Goodie Mob.
  • "A Baltimore Love Thing" contains elements from "I'll Be Waiting There for You" performed by The Dells.
  • "God Gave Me Style" contains elements from "Each Day I Cry a Little" performed by Eddie Kendricks.
  • "I Don't Need 'Em" contains elements from "Nobody Knows" performed by S.C.L.C.

Personnel

[edit]

Credits for The Massacre adapted from Allmusic.[39]

Charts

[edit]

Certifications

[edit]
Certifications for The Massacre
Region Certification Certified units/sales
Australia (ARIA)[84] Platinum 70,000^
Belgium (BRMA)[85] Gold 25,000*
Canada (Music Canada)[86] 3× Platinum 300,000^
Denmark (IFPI Danmark)[87] 2× Platinum 40,000
France (SNEP)[88] Gold 100,000*
Germany (BVMI)[89] 2× Platinum 400,000
Greece (IFPI Greece)[52] Gold 10,000^
Ireland (IRMA)[90] 2× Platinum 30,000^
Italy (FIMI)[91] Gold 25,000
Japan (RIAJ)[92] Gold 100,000^
New Zealand (RMNZ)[93] 4× Platinum 60,000
Portugal (AFP)[94] Gold 20,000^
Russia (NFPF)[95] 3× Platinum 60,000*
Switzerland (IFPI Switzerland)[96] Platinum 40,000^
United Kingdom (BPI)[97] 3× Platinum 900,000
United States (RIAA)[98] 6× Platinum 6,000,000
Summaries
Europe (IFPI)[99] Platinum 1,000,000*
Worldwide 9,000,000[15]

* Sales figures based on certification alone.
^ Shipments figures based on certification alone.
Sales+streaming figures based on certification alone.

Special edition

[edit]
The Massacre (Special Edition)
Studio album by
ReleasedSeptember 6, 2005
Recorded2004–2005
Genre
Length73:47
Label
Producer
50 Cent chronology
The Massacre
(2005)
The Massacre (Special Edition)
(2005)
Curtis
(2007)
Singles from The Massacre
  1. "Disco Inferno"
    Released: November 28, 2004
  2. "Candy Shop"
    Released: January 15, 2005
  3. "Just a Lil Bit"
    Released: May 10, 2005
  4. "Outta Control (Remix)"
    Released: September 6, 2005

Background

[edit]

The album was re-released on September 6, 2005, as the Special edition. It included a remix of "Outta Control" featuring Mobb Deep, which replaces the original version of the song as track eight. This edition included a bonus DVD with music videos for a majority of the album's tracks (with the exclusion of "Disco Inferno", "Gunz Come Out" and the intro), and the trailer for the film Get Rich or Die Tryin', which released two months later. Likely due to the then-ongoing feud between 50 Cent and The Game, this version omits the G-Unit remix to "Hate It or Love It" as the twenty-second track. Once the special edition was released, The Massacre re-entered the top three of the Billboard 200 at number two, being blocked from number one by Kanye West's Late Registration.[100] The original version was also re-issued using the special edition track listing leaving out the parts for the DVD.

Track listing

[edit]
No.TitleWriter(s)Producer(s)Length
1."Intro"Lindsay CollinsEminem0:41
2."In My Hood"
  • Jackson
  • Crawford
  • Pitts
  • Mathers
  • Resto
  • C. Styles
  • Bang Out
  • Eminem[a]
  • Resto[a]
3:51
3."This Is 50"
  • Jackson
  • Smith
  • Clervoix
  • Black Jeruz
  • Sha Money XL
3:04
4."I'm Supposed to Die Tonight"
  • Jackson
  • Mathers
  • Resto
  • King
Eminem3:51
5."Piggy Bank"
  • Jackson
  • Cain
Needlz4:15
6."Gatman and Robbin'" (featuring Eminem)
  • Jackson
  • Mathers
  • Jeffrey Bass
  • Mark Bass
  • Resto
  • Hefti
  • Eminem
  • Bass Brothers[a]
3:46
7."Candy Shop" (featuring Olivia)
  • Jackson
  • Storch
Storch3:29
8."Outta Control (Remix)" (featuring Mobb Deep)
  • Dr. Dre
  • Elizondo
4:07
9."Get in My Car"
  • Jackson
  • Cotrell
Hi-Tek4:05
10."Ski Mask Way"
  • Jackson
  • Sigler
  • Resto
  • Mathers
  • Shayman
  • Presson
Disco D3:05
11."A Baltimore Love Thing"
  • Jackson
  • Staples
  • Toney
Cue Beats4:17
12."Ryder Music"
  • Jackson
  • Cotrell
Hi-Tek3:51
13."Disco Inferno"
  • Jackson
  • Crawford
  • Pitts
  • C. Styles
  • Bang Out
3:34
14."Just a Lil Bit"
  • Jackson
  • Storch
Storch3:57
15."Gunz Come Out"
  • Jackson
  • Young
  • Elizondo
  • Dr. Dre
  • Elizondo
4:24
16."My Toy Soldier" (featuring Tony Yayo)
  • Jackson
  • Bernard
  • Mathers
  • Resto
  • King
Eminem3:44
17."Position of Power"
  • Jackson
  • Rotem
J.R. Rotem3:12
18."Build You Up" (featuring Jamie Foxx)
  • Jackson
  • Storch
Storch2:55
19."God Gave Me Style"
  • Jackson
  • Cain
  • Caston, Jr.
  • McFadden
Needlz3:01
20."So Amazing" (featuring Olivia)
  • Jackson
  • Rotem
  • Lopez
J.R. Rotem3:16
21."I Don't Need 'Em"
  • Jackson
  • Best
Buckwild3:20
Total length:73:45

Notes

  • ^[a] signifies an additional producer.

Sample credits Information taken from The Massacre liner notes:[38]

  • "Intro" contains elements from "What Up Gangsta" performed by 50 Cent
  • "I'm Supposed to Die Tonight" contains samples of "Warning" by The Notorious B.I.G.
  • "Gatman and Robbin'" contains replayed elements from "Batman Theme"
  • "Candy Shop" contains a sample of "Love Break" performed by The Salsoul Orchestra (uncredited)
  • "Ski Mask Way" contains elements from "What Am I Waiting For" performed by The O'Jays and resung elements from "Cell Therapy" performed by Goodie Mob
  • "A Baltimore Love Thing" contains elements from "I'll Be Waiting There For You" performed by The Dells
  • "God Gave Me Style" contains elements from "Each Day I Cry A Little" performed by Eddie Kendricks
  • "I Don't Need 'Em" contains elements from "Nobody Knows" performed by S.C.L.C.

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
The Massacre is the second studio album by American rapper 50 Cent, released on March 8, 2005, through Shady Records, Aftermath Entertainment, G-Unit Records, and Interscope Records. The album, primarily produced by Dr. Dre, Eminem, Mike Elizondo, and Scott Storch, features guest appearances from artists including Olivia, The Game, and Jamie Foxx, and explores themes of street life, violence, romance, and rivalries in the hip-hop world through 19 tracks blending gangsta rap with pop-oriented hooks. It debuted at number one on the US Billboard 200 chart, selling 1.14 million copies in its first week of release despite a shortened tracking period due to bootlegging concerns that prompted an early street date. By the end of 2005, The Massacre had garnered 4.85 million units in the United States, earning 5× Platinum certification from the RIAA and solidifying 50 Cent's commercial dominance following his debut Get Rich or Die Tryin'. Critically, the album received generally positive reviews for its catchy production and 50 Cent's charismatic delivery, though some critics noted it lacked the innovation of his previous work, with Rolling Stone awarding it three out of five stars and praising its entertainment value despite repetitive feuds with artists like Ja Rule and Fat Joe. Key singles such as "Disco Inferno," "Candy Shop" featuring Olivia, and "Just a Lil Bit" became major hits, with "Candy Shop" reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and contributing to the album's crossover appeal. The Massacre marked a pivotal moment in mid-2000s hip-hop, highlighting the tension between 50 Cent and The Game—whose debut The Documentary was released the same week—while boosting G-Unit's profile and influencing the era's blend of gritty lyricism with mainstream accessibility.

Background and development

Development

Following the monumental success of his debut album Get Rich or Die Tryin' in 2003, which sold over 12 million copies worldwide, 50 Cent sought to capitalize on his newfound stardom by crafting a sophomore project that delved deeper into his personal experiences, particularly the lingering impact of surviving a near-fatal shooting in 2000. This motivation drove him to adopt a more introspective yet aggressively confrontational tone, shifting from street-level narratives to explorations of fame's vulnerabilities and his unapologetic persona, as he explained in a 2005 interview: "On 'Get Rich or Die Tryin',' I would have written that song like I was selling heroin. But on 'The Massacre,' I'm dealing with deeper issues." Conceptualized in 2004 amid escalating industry tensions, the album's development was shaped by 50 Cent's ongoing feuds with rivals such as Ja Rule and, later, The Game, whom he had initially signed to G-Unit but whose relationship soured during the project's early stages. These conflicts influenced the album's combative edge, with tracks emerging as direct responses to perceived betrayals and beefs that dominated hip-hop headlines throughout the year. Key collaboration decisions centered on enlisting Dr. Dre and Eminem as executive producers alongside 50 Cent himself, ensuring a high-profile production team that aligned with his vision for mainstream dominance while integrating the G-Unit roster for cohesive group features. This structure emphasized loyalty to his crew, with early sessions incorporating contributions from Lloyd Banks, Young Buck, and Tony Yayo to solidify G-Unit's collective identity. Around mid-2004, 50 Cent engaged in pivotal negotiations with Interscope Records to expand his G-Unit imprint, securing greater creative control and a substantial budget through a joint venture that allowed him to develop artists independently while leveraging the label's distribution resources. This deal, formalized later that year, provided the financial backing needed to elevate The Massacre beyond his debut, with Interscope committing significant resources to match his ambitious scope.

Censorship issues

The Massacre contains explicit lyrics that frequently depict graphic violence, drug use, and other mature themes, prompting the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) to issue a parental advisory sticker for the album upon its release. This labeling was standard for hip-hop albums with such content during the mid-2000s, serving as a warning to parents about potentially unsuitable material for younger audiences. In response to retail demands and to expand market accessibility, Interscope Records produced and distributed a clean (edited) version of the album alongside the explicit edition. In this version, profanity is bleeped or replaced, violent imagery is toned down, and drug references are altered or removed to comply with store policies at chains like Walmart, which often refused to stock explicit content. Tracks such as "I'm Supposed to Die Tonight," with its vivid portrayals of street violence and mortality, exemplify the type of material that underwent these modifications, though no unique obscenity challenges targeted the song itself in 2005. The album's release occurred amid broader legal and cultural scrutiny of hip-hop lyrics in 2004-2005, following the commercial success of 50 Cent's debut Get Rich or Die Tryin', which had already drawn criticism for glorifying violence. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) intensified enforcement against indecency on broadcast media after the 2004 Super Bowl halftime show incident, leading to increased pressure on radio stations playing explicit rap. Civil rights leader Al Sharpton specifically called on the FCC in March 2005 to impose fines on outlets airing "violent" rap songs, citing concerns over content promoting aggression in the genre during a period of heightened public debate. This environment indirectly influenced how labels like Interscope handled explicit releases, though no direct FCC actions affected album sales or content. Internationally, the album saw regional variations primarily through the availability of the clean version in markets like the UK and Australia, where stricter broadcast codes and retailer preferences led to bleeped audio on radio play and edited editions for sale. However, no major alterations to artwork were reported, with the standard cover featuring 50 Cent in a shadowed pose used globally; explicit versions remained uncensored in these regions to preserve artistic integrity.

Composition and production

Musical style

The Massacre exemplifies gangsta rap as its core genre, infused with pop rap elements that incorporate R&B and pop sensibilities, particularly in the melodic hooks of tracks like "Candy Shop" featuring Olivia and "Just a Lil Bit." This blend creates accessible crossover appeal while maintaining street-oriented aggression, distinguishing it from stricter hardcore rap albums of the era. The album's sound draws heavily from Dr. Dre's West Coast production aesthetic, rooted in G-funk traditions, which merges with 50 Cent's East Coast lyrical intensity to produce a polished yet gritty sonic palette. Tempos average around 102 BPM across tracks, with a range from 66 to 179 BPM, fostering a varied rhythm suitable for both club play and narrative delivery. The production, shaped by contributors including Dr. Dre, Eminem, and Scott Storch, emphasizes thick, booming beats with prominent 808 bass drums for low-end drive. Instrumentation features heavy reliance on synthesizers for atmospheric layers and melodic motifs, alongside layered samples that add cinematic depth, evident in bass-heavy constructions and occasional orchestral flourishes evoking tension in tracks like "I'm Supposed to Die Tonight." This approach results in a cohesive, radio-friendly sound that prioritizes impact over complexity. The album's structure comprises 19 tracks on the standard edition totaling approximately 77 minutes, with an average length of about 4 minutes per song, and includes brief skits that enhance narrative continuity between songs.

Themes and lyricism

The lyrics of The Massacre center on themes of survival, street life, wealth flaunting, and relationships, infused with braggadocio that highlights luxury alongside violence. Tracks like "In My Hood" vividly portray the dangers and routines of urban existence, including gun violence and neighborhood loyalty, while "Candy Shop" and "Get in My Car" explore seductive relationships and sexual conquests as markers of success. 50 Cent's lyricism showcases advanced techniques such as internal rhymes, multisyllabic schemes, and narrative storytelling, often drawing from personal experiences. In "Outta Control," he employs a reflective storytelling arc to convey his post-shooting mindset, emphasizing resilience and control amid chaos with lines like "Many men, many, many, many, many men wish death 'pon me," adapting the hook from his earlier mixtape work to underscore survival instincts. Compared to his debut Get Rich or Die Tryin', which heavily emphasized imminent death threats and hustling desperation, The Massacre evolves toward celebrating commercial triumph and incorporating pointed rival disses, such as the extended takedown of Ja Rule in "Piggy Bank." This shift reflects 50 Cent's transition from underdog survivor to established mogul, with reduced focus on peril and greater emphasis on opulence and dominance. Guest verses from G-Unit affiliates integrate seamlessly to reinforce themes of crew loyalty and collective street dominance, portraying the group as an unbreakable unit in the face of rivals and adversity, such as Tony Yayo on "My Toy Soldier."

Recording and production process

The recording sessions for The Massacre took place over several months in 2004 and early 2005, primarily at Record One Studios in Sherman Oaks, California, with additional work at Sound Villa in Miami, Florida, 54 Sound in Detroit, Michigan, G-Unit Studios in New York City, and various other facilities. These locations facilitated a collaborative environment where 50 Cent worked closely with a team of producers to craft the album's sound. The process involved extensive use of digital audio workstations like Pro Tools for layering beats, vocals, and effects, allowing for precise adjustments during mixing sessions. Focusing on the standard edition; the special edition includes additional tracks and bonuses. Dr. Dre served as a key producer, handling two tracks on the standard edition including "Outta Control" and "Gunz Come Out" (with Mike Elizondo), bringing his signature polished, bass-heavy production style to the project; he produced additional tracks on the special edition such as "What If" and "Death Wish." Eminem contributed to four tracks, such as "I'm Supposed to Die Tonight" and "Ski Mask Way," often co-producing with Dre and infusing the beats with intricate drum patterns and sample flips. Other contributors included Scott Storch, who produced the hit "Candy Shop," and J.R. Rotem, who provided beats for tracks like "So Amazing," emphasizing a mix of street-oriented and radio-ready elements. 50 Cent took a hands-on role in the production, participating in mixing and making iterative revisions to ensure tracks aligned with commercial appeal while maintaining his raw lyrical delivery. The production faced challenges, including delays stemming from 50 Cent's demanding tour schedule following the success of Get Rich or Die Tryin', which interrupted studio time, as well as distractions from ongoing feuds in the hip-hop scene that shifted focus during sessions. Despite these hurdles, the team completed the album in approximately six months, resulting in a cohesive 19-track project executive produced by 50 Cent, Dr. Dre, and Eminem.

Release and promotion

Marketing and release

The Massacre was released on March 3, 2005, through Shady Records, Aftermath Entertainment, G-Unit Records, and Interscope Records, with the street date advanced from the originally planned March 8 to combat widespread bootlegging of advance copies. The album's marketing strategy emphasized pre-release hype through a limited promotional CD run of 250,000 copies, which offered fans entry into the Ultimate G-Unit Soldier sweepstakes for prizes including G-Unit apparel and footwear, Formula 50 Vitamin Water, and a G-Unit dog tag designed by Jacob the Jeweler. This buildup was supported by heavy radio airplay for lead singles, creating anticipation ahead of the launch. The standard edition came in a jewel case format, featuring cover art of 50 Cent shirtless and adorned with black ink markings evoking scars from his past shooting, symbolizing his survival narrative. Internationally, the album saw a simultaneous global rollout in March 2005, including a European edition, followed by a special edition release in September 2005 that included a bonus DVD with music videos for each track.

Singles

The lead single from The Massacre, "Disco Inferno", was released in November 2004 and debuted on the Billboard Hot 100 at number 54 before peaking at number 3 in March 2005. The track, produced by Mr. Porter, helped build anticipation for the album with its club-oriented beat and 50 Cent's signature bravado. It was certified 2× Platinum by the RIAA in 2023 for two million units sold in the United States. Following the album's March 2005 release, "Candy Shop" featuring Olivia was issued as the second single in January 2005, topping the Billboard Hot 100 for nine consecutive weeks starting March 5. Produced by Scott Storch, the song's seductive hook and catchy production contributed significantly to the album's crossover appeal. By 2023, it had been certified 5× Platinum by the RIAA. The collaboration "How We Do" with The Game, originally from The Game's The Documentary but included on The Massacre, served as a promotional follow-up single in early 2005 and reached number 4 on the Billboard Hot 100. The track's gritty West Coast vibe and shared billing amplified cross-promotion between the artists. A remix version appeared on the album to tie it into 50 Cent's project. "Just a Lil Bit", released in May 2005, became another top-five hit, peaking at number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 in June. Also produced by Scott Storch, it featured a minimalist beat emphasizing 50 Cent's charismatic delivery. The song earned 3× Platinum certification from the RIAA by 2023. The singles rollout employed a staggered release strategy to sustain radio airplay and chart presence, with remixes incorporating features from Olivia on "Candy Shop" and The Game on "How We Do" to broaden appeal and encourage repeat streams. This approach kept The Massacre dominant on airwaves throughout 2005, supporting the album's commercial longevity.

Music videos and tour

The music videos accompanying singles from The Massacre emphasized high-energy visuals, urban aesthetics, and themes of luxury and sensuality, often directed by Jessy Terrero to align with the album's commercial appeal. The video for "Candy Shop" featuring Olivia, released in February 2005, was filmed in Hollywood, California, set in a luxurious mansion themed as a candy shop, incorporating candy-themed props and a playful, seductive narrative that highlighted 50 Cent's charisma alongside Olivia's performance. As of November 2024, it has surpassed 1 billion views on YouTube. Directed by Terrero, it became one of the year's most viewed hip-hop videos, blending party elements with the song's flirtatious lyrics. Similarly, the "Disco Inferno" video, also helmed by Terrero and released in early 2005, depicted 50 Cent in a vibrant club environment with dancing crowds and flashy production, achieving top rotation on MTV and contributing to the track's mainstream exposure. Several videos featured guest artists from 50 Cent's circle, enhancing their collaborative dynamic. The "Outta Control" remix video included appearances by Mobb Deep, showcasing intense street scenes and rapid-fire editing to match the song's aggressive energy. Tony Yayo appeared in the "So Seductive" video, where G-Unit members joined 50 Cent in luxurious settings that contrasted the track's smooth, seductive vibe with subtle nods to their crew loyalty. While Snoop Dogg did not feature in a primary Massacre video, his influence appeared in related promotional remixes tied to the album's rollout, such as extended cuts blending West Coast styles. Some videos faced content restrictions; for instance, explicit versions of "Candy Shop" were edited for broadcast due to suggestive imagery, reflecting broader scrutiny on 50 Cent's violent themes. To support the album's release, 50 Cent launched The Massacre Tour from mid-2005 through 2006, featuring G-Unit affiliates Lloyd Banks, Young Buck, and Tony Yayo as core performers, with opening acts including Ciara, Lil Jon, and Ludacris on select dates. The tour spanned over 50 shows across the United States and Europe, including high-profile stops at venues like Wembley Arena in London and the Comcast Theatre in Hartford, delivering high-energy sets of album tracks amid pyrotechnics and crowd interaction. These efforts contributed to 50 Cent's total earnings of $78.6 million in 2005, marking one of the highest for hip-hop artists that year. Promotional tie-ins included a notable performance of "Outta Control" with G-Unit and Mobb Deep at the 2005 MTV Video Music Awards in August, amplifying the single's buzz, alongside appearances at events like MTV Spring Break where "Disco Inferno" was showcased live. These efforts extended the album's visual and live presence, solidifying 50 Cent's dominance in live hip-hop entertainment.

Commercial performance

Chart performance

The Massacre debuted at number one on the US Billboard 200 chart, selling 1.14 million copies in its first week and marking the largest opening week for a hip-hop album since 2002. The album held the top position for six consecutive weeks, fending off competition from other major releases. It finished the year as the number-one album on the Billboard 200 year-end chart. Internationally, the album reached number one in Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Germany, and New Zealand, peaked at number two in Australia, while achieving top-five peaks in 15 additional countries including France and the Netherlands. Singles such as "Candy Shop" and "Just a Lil Bit" dominated the Hot Rap Songs chart, each reaching number one and collectively spending multiple weeks in the top positions. The album spent a total of 82 weeks on the Billboard 200.

Sales and certifications

The Massacre has shipped over 12 million copies worldwide by 2006. As of 2025, the album has sold over 8 million copies worldwide based on certifications, with equivalent units boosted by streaming. In the United States, the album was certified 5× Platinum by the RIAA in 2005 for shipments of 5 million copies; equivalent units exceed 10 million including streaming as of 2025. Internationally, it received 3× Platinum certification from the BPI in the United Kingdom in 2006 for 900,000 units. Gold certifications were awarded in France by SNEP in 2005 and in Italy by FIMI, updated through 2023-2025, with official recognitions in multiple countries including the US, UK, France, and Italy. Streaming has significantly amplified its reach, surpassing 3 billion plays on Spotify as of November 2025 and driving additional certification updates through equivalent unit calculations.

Critical reception

Contemporary reviews

Upon its release in March 2005, The Massacre received generally favorable reviews from music critics, earning a Metacritic score of 66 out of 100 based on 26 reviews, indicating mixed or average reviews with praise for its polished production but criticism for its formulaic approach and lack of innovation compared to 50 Cent's debut. Positive assessments highlighted the album's catchy hooks and high-quality beats, with AllMusic awarding it 3 out of 5 stars and describing it as a "solid sequel" that delivers "infectious, club-ready" tracks bolstered by production from Dr. Dre and Eminem. Similarly, Rolling Stone gave it 3 out of 5 stars, commending 50 Cent's charismatic delivery and the album's ability to blend toughness with charm on standout cuts like "Candy Shop," calling it a "polished" effort that solidifies his commercial dominance. Critics on the negative side pointed to repetition and a perceived artistic plateau, as Pitchfork rated it 7.0 out of 10, praising introspective moments on tracks like "I'm Supposed to Die Tonight" but faulting the album's excessive length (over 75 minutes) and filler material that made it feel bloated and less groundbreaking than Get Rich or Die Tryin'. The Guardian assigned 2 out of 5 stars, critiquing the repetitive themes of violence and luxury alongside softer love songs that diluted the gangsta rap edge, ultimately viewing it as slick but less compelling than the debut. The critical consensus positioned The Massacre as 50 Cent's commercial peak, with its accessible, radio-friendly sound driving massive sales, yet it marked an artistic plateau where the rapper relied on familiar formulas rather than pushing boundaries, leading to divided opinions on its longevity.

Accolades

The Massacre received several nominations and accolades upon its release, reflecting its commercial dominance and cultural impact in hip-hop. At the 48th Annual Grammy Awards in 2006, the album was nominated for Best Rap Album but lost to Kanye West's Late Registration. The lead single "Candy Shop" earned a nomination for Best Male Video at the 2005 MTV Video Music Awards, though it was ultimately awarded to Kanye West's "Jesus Walks." Commercially, the album topped the Billboard 200 year-end chart for 2005, marking it as the best-selling album of the year in the United States. Additionally, The Massacre won Favorite Rap/Hip-Hop Album at the 33rd Annual American Music Awards in 2005.

Retrospective assessments

In the 2010s, retrospective assessments praised The Massacre for establishing a commercial blueprint in hip-hop, blending street narratives with radio-friendly hooks that influenced subsequent artists' approaches to mainstream success. A 2015 XXL interview commemorating the album's 10-year anniversary featured 50 Cent reflecting on its role in expanding G-Unit's reach and solidifying his brand as a cultural force, emphasizing how it built on Get Rich or Die Tryin' while prioritizing accessibility. The album's cultural impact has endured into the 2020s, shaping trap-pop crossovers by demonstrating how gangsta rap could dominate pop charts through infectious production and crossover appeal. Tracks like "Candy Shop" and "Just a Lil Bit" exemplified this formula, inspiring modern artists to merge gritty lyrics with melodic elements; for instance, the album's sound echoes in the pop-rap hybrids of contemporary acts, contributing to hip-hop's evolution toward broader genre fusion. Its influence extends to sampling, with elements from songs like "Outta Control" appearing in 2020s productions that nod to early 2000s club energy. Recent critic updates highlight the album's nostalgic value and lasting resonance. In a 2025 HipHopDX 20th-anniversary revisit, the publication described The Massacre as an "imperfect blockbuster" that captured 50 Cent at the height of his pop culture dominance, praising its radio dominance despite criticisms of over-commercialization. Similarly, a GQ retrospective that year positioned it as a pivotal turning point for rap's business model, underscoring how it accelerated the shift toward artist-driven branding and multimedia empires. A Medium analysis echoed this, noting its dismissal as "overly commercial" belies its artistic merits and role in hip-hop's commercial expansion. Streaming data in 2025 further affirms the album's enduring popularity, with over 2.9 billion plays on Spotify alone, ranking it among 50 Cent's most streamed projects and reflecting a revival among younger audiences. The RIAA's 2020 certification of 6× Platinum—incorporating streaming equivalents—updated its status to account for digital consumption, highlighting post-2010 growth in equivalent album units sold. These developments, alongside its foundational accolades like Grammy nominations, underscore The Massacre's ongoing influence on modern hip-hop's blend of authenticity and market savvy.

Track listings

Standard edition

The standard edition of The Massacre, released on March 8, 2005, by Shady Records, Aftermath Entertainment, G-Unit Records, and Interscope Records, comprises 19 tracks with a total runtime of 77 minutes and 22 seconds. This version emphasizes 50 Cent's signature blend of hardcore rap, club anthems, and introspective cuts, produced primarily by collaborators from the Shady/Aftermath camp, including Dr. Dre, Eminem, and Mike Elizondo. The standard edition excludes three tracks present in an earlier leaked 22-track version ("U Not Like Me," "Life's on the Line," and "Wonderful") due to uncleared samples. Writers for most tracks are led by Curtis Jackson (50 Cent), with additional contributions varying by song; notable skits, such as "Ski Mask Way" featuring G-Unit members Lloyd Banks, Tony Yayo, and Young Buck, add narrative interludes to the album's street-themed storyline. The track listing is as follows:
  1. "Intro" (0:41, prod. Eminem; writers: Curtis Jackson, Marshall Mathers).
  2. "In My Hood" (3:51, prod. Bang Out, C. Styles; writers: Curtis Jackson, Teraike Crawford).
  3. "This Is 50" (3:04, prod. Sha Money XL, Black Jeruz; writers: Curtis Jackson).
  4. "I'm Supposed to Die Tonight" (3:51, prod. Dr. Dre, Mike Elizondo; writers: Curtis Jackson, Andre Young, Mike Elizondo).
  5. "Piggy Bank" (4:15, prod. Dr. Dre, Mike Elizondo; writers: Curtis Jackson, Andre Young, Mike Elizondo).
  6. "Gatman and Robbin" (feat. Eminem) (3:47, prod. Eminem; writers: Curtis Jackson, Marshall Mathers).
  7. "Candy Shop" (feat. Olivia) (3:29, prod. Scott Storch; writers: Curtis Jackson, Scott Storch).
  8. "Outta Control" (4:21, prod. Eminem; writers: Curtis Jackson, Marshall Mathers).
  9. "Get in My Car" (4:32, prod. Mr. Porter; writers: Curtis Jackson, Denaun Porter).
  10. "Ski Mask Way" (3:23, prod. Bang Out; writers: Curtis Jackson, Lloyd Banks, Tony Yayo, Young Buck).
  11. "A Baltimore Love Thing" (4:18, prod. Mr. Porter; writers: Curtis Jackson, Denaun Porter).
  12. "Ryder Music" (3:52, prod. Sid Roane; writers: Curtis Jackson).
  13. "Disco Inferno" (3:34, prod. Bang Out, C. Styles; writers: Curtis Jackson, P. Pitts, T. Crawford).
  14. "Just a Lil Bit" (3:58, prod. Scott Storch; writers: Curtis Jackson, Scott Storch).
  15. "Gunz Come Out" (4:24, prod. Dr. Dre, Mike Elizondo; writers: Curtis Jackson, Andre Young, Mike Elizondo).
  16. "My Toy Soldier" (feat. Tony Yayo) (3:44, prod. Eminem; writers: Curtis Jackson, Marshall Mathers, Tony Yayo).
  17. "Position of Power" (3:14, prod. DJ Khalil; writers: Curtis Jackson, Khalil Abdul-Rahman).
  18. "Build You Up" (feat. Jamie Foxx) (2:55, prod. J.R. Rotem; writers: Curtis Jackson, Jonathan Rotem).
  19. "God Gave Me Style" (3:02, prod. Dr. Dre, Mike Elizondo; writers: Curtis Jackson, Andre Young, Mike Elizondo).

Special edition

The special edition of The Massacre was released on September 6, 2005, six months after the album's original debut, as a strategic re-release to revitalize sales and extend its commercial momentum. This version sold 154,000 copies in its first full week, propelling the album back to number two on the Billboard 200 chart. The special edition includes the 19 tracks from the standard edition, with "Outta Control" replaced by its remix featuring Mobb Deep, and adds two new recordings: "Hustler's Ambition" and "We Both Think Alike" (feat. Olivia). These modifications result in 21 tracks with an overall runtime of approximately 78 minutes. The added content ties into 50 Cent's ongoing promotional cycle, including his Get Rich or Die Tryin' film soundtrack. The packaging was updated with gold accents on the cover art for a premium aesthetic, distinguishing it from the standard release. In select markets, particularly the United States and Europe, the edition was bundled with a bonus DVD featuring music videos for the tracks, along with extras such as a trailer for the Get Rich or Die Tryin' movie and an exclusive 50 Cent calendar.

Personnel and credits

Vocals

  • 50 Cent – primary vocals (all tracks)
  • Lindsay Collins – spoken word (track 1)
  • Eminem – featured vocals (track 6)
  • Olivia – featured vocals (tracks 7, 20)
  • Mobb Deep – featured vocals (track 8)
  • Tony Yayo – featured vocals (track 16)
  • Jamie Foxx – featured vocals (track 18)
  • Barbara Wilson – backing vocals (track 5)
  • Traci Nelson – backing vocals (track 5)
  • Conesha Monet Owens – backing vocals (track 12)
  • Dion – backing vocals (track 12)
  • Ruben Cruz – backing vocals (track 12)

Instrumentation

  • Steve King – bass, guitar (tracks 2, 4)
  • Luis Resto – keyboards, additional production (tracks 2, 3, 4, 6, 10, 16); horns (track 3)
  • Mike Elizondo – keyboards, bass, sitar (tracks 8, 11, 13, 14, 15)
  • Sean Cruse – guitar (track 8)
  • Mark Batson – keyboards (track 8)
  • Hi-Tek – scratches (track 12)

Production

  • 50 Cent – executive producer
  • Eminem – executive producer, producer (tracks 1, 4, 6, 10, 16), additional production (tracks 2, 10)
  • Dr. Dre – executive producer, producer (tracks 8, 15)
  • Bang Out – producer (tracks 2, 13)
  • C. Styles – producer (tracks 2, 13)
  • Needlz – producer (tracks 5, 19)
  • Scott Storch – producer (tracks 7, 14, 18)
  • Hi-Tek – producer (tracks 9, 12)
  • Disco D – producer (track 10)
  • Cue Beats – producer (track 11)
  • Buckwild – producer (track 21)
  • Luis Resto – additional production (tracks 2, 4, 6, 10, 16)
  • Mark Bass – additional production (track 6)
  • Jeff Bass – additional production, keyboards (track 6)
  • Mike Elizondo – additional production (tracks 8, 15)

Recording

  • Mike Strange – recording engineer (tracks 1, 4, 16)
  • Tony Campana – recording engineer (tracks 1, 4, 16)
  • Adam Hawkins – recording engineer (tracks 5, 17, 19, 20)
  • Ky Miller – recording engineer (tracks 3, 21)
  • Kameron Houff – recording engineer (tracks 7, 18)
  • Alex Ortiz – recording engineer (track 5)
  • Ed Scratch – recording engineer (track 21)
  • Chuck Reed – recording engineer (track 17)
  • Rouble Kapour – assistant engineer (tracks 7, 8, 9, 11, 13, 14, 15, 18, 21)
  • Robert "Roomio" Reyes – assistant engineer (tracks 8, 14)
  • Brad Winslow – assistant engineer (tracks 11, 17)
  • Jeff Burns – assistant engineer (tracks 17, 20)
  • Scott Gutierrez – assistant engineer (track 12)
  • Mauricio "Veto" Iragorri – mix engineer (tracks 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 18, 21)

Mixing

  • Eminem – mixing (tracks 2, 4, 6, 10, 16)
  • Steve King – mixing (tracks 2, 4, 6, 10, 16)
  • Dr. Dre – mixing (tracks 7, 8, 9, 12, 13, 14, 15, 18, 21)
  • Sha Money XL – mixing (track 5)
  • Steve Baughman – mixing (tracks 11, 17, 20)

Technical

  • Brian Gardner – mastering
  • Larry Chatman – production coordinator (track 8)
Credits adapted from the album's liner notes.

References

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