Fueled by the raw energy of his legendary hits, 50 Cent lit up Rabat on Saturday night with a tightly executed show that blended nostalgia with sheer showmanship. Two decades after his explosive debut, the New York rap icon reconnected with his fans at the Mawazine Festival—now celebrating its 20th edition—with the same fire that launched him into global stardom.
From the moment he stepped on stage at OLM Souissi, the tone was clear. In front of a sea of thousands, Curtis Jackson dove straight into the classics that made him a household name. Tracks like “In da Club” and “21 Questions” from his groundbreaking debut album instantly set the crowd ablaze. The energy surged even higher as he rolled through favorites from The Massacre, including “Candy Shop” and “Just A Lil Bit,” met with booming singalongs from an electrified audience.
Visually slick and vocally powerful, the performance was a reminder of why 50 Cent remains such a commanding presence. Even after 20 years at the top, his impact on hip-hop culture feels as current as ever. What he delivered wasn’t just a string of hits—it was a full-bodied tribute to a defining era in rap history.
Yet it wasn’t only the music that hit home. There was a deeper wave of nostalgia in the air, as the spirit of G-Unit lingered over the crowd—a mix of longtime fans and a new generation discovering the force of his legacy. But this wasn’t just a look in the rearview mirror. It was a masterclass in staying relevant, proving that longevity in music isn’t luck—it’s intent, precision, and charisma.
With over 30 million albums sold worldwide, 50 Cent is far more than a rapper. He’s a brand, a producer, an actor, a businessman—and his empire has been built as much on savvy strategy as on raw talent. On Saturday night, that empire was on full display, wrapped in swagger, precision, and a rare connection with the crowd.
Since its founding in 2001 under the High Patronage of King Mohammed VI, the Mawazine Festival has grown into a global showcase for contemporary music. Rabat and neighboring Salé will host the event until June 28, bringing together international headliners and standout Arab talent in a celebration that is both wildly popular and truly global. With millions attending each year, Mawazine has firmly cemented itself as one of the most important cultural gatherings on the world stage.
