In a recent interview, hip-hop legend Jadakiss expressed his respect for fellow New York rapper 50 Cent, particularly for his decision to visit D-Block alone during their past feud. This revelation came during a segment on the YouTube channel EvoqueTV, where Jadakiss, a member of the iconic group The Lox, reflected on their brief but intense rivalry.
The two rappers have a history that includes notable diss tracks, most famously Jadakiss’s “Checkmate,” which targeted 50 Cent. However, Jadakiss emphasized that their beef was never as serious as it may have appeared, attributing part of the escalation to their status as prominent figures in the hip-hop industry at the time. He recalled a pivotal moment when 50 Cent, without an entourage, made the decision to come to D-Block to resolve their differences.
“He came to D-Block by himself,” Jadakiss recounted. “He called to say, ‘Oh, I’m coming through,’ and he sat down, kicked it for a few hours.” This act of showing up solo, according to Jadakiss, exemplified 50 Cent’s character and willingness to confront issues directly. He noted that had 50 brought his crew along, the situation could have escalated, but instead, it led to a peaceful resolution between the two artists.
Jadakiss acknowledged 50 Cent as one of hip-hop’s most influential figures, praising his ability to create classic tracks and memorable moments over the last two decades. “I always respected 50 Cent, but hearing he came through D-Block solo, that’s real respect,” he stated, underscoring the significance of the gesture.
In addition to discussing his relationship with 50 Cent, Jadakiss also shared his top five dead or alive rappers, which included notable names such as Biggie, Jay-Z, Nas, Styles P, and DMX. This segment of the interview not only highlighted his musical influences but also engaged viewers by inviting them to share their own lists in the comments.
Jadakiss’s reflections on his relationship with 50 Cent serve as a reminder of the complexities within the hip-hop community, where rivalries can exist alongside mutual respect. As both artists continue to contribute to the genre, their past interactions reveal a deeper narrative of growth and understanding in an industry often characterized by conflict.