How 50 Cent’s unexpected support saved The Game from being cut

The untold story behind ‘How We Do’ and the bond between 50 Cent and The Game

BMF/STARZ – For Your Consideration 2024
BMF/STARZ – For Your Consideration 2024 | Derek White/GettyImages

In the fast-paced world of hip-hop, where alliances can shift as quickly as a beat drop, there’s one story that stands out—a tale of unlikely collaboration, loyalty, and how a single decision changed the course of an artist’s career. Let’s dive into the behind-the-scenes drama that unfolded between The Game and 50 Cent, and how their relationship evolved from tension to mutual respect.

The genesis of “How We Do”

The year was 2004, and The Game was on the brink of stardom. His debut album, The Documentary, was poised to make waves in the rap scene. But it was the second single from that album, “How We Do,” that would forever alter the trajectory of his career.

The creative process behind “How We Do” was serendipitous. Dr. Dre, the legendary producer, overheard The Game mumbling a catchy phrase—“Fresh like, uh, Impala.” Dre recognized the potential and encouraged him to lay down those lyrics.

Two weeks later, The Game returned to the studio to find 50 Cent already on the track. At the time, 50 Cent was a massive force in the industry, thanks to his G-Unit affiliation. Dre had made the call, and 50 Cent jumped on board without even being in the same room as The Game during the recording.

The unspoken bond

But this collaboration went beyond music. It was a lifeline for The Game. You see, he was on the verge of being cut from the project. The industry can be ruthless, and decisions are often made swiftly. Dre’s inclusion of 50 Cent on “How We Do” saved The Game from obscurity. It was a pivotal moment—one that solidified their bond.

Yet, as with any intense relationship, there were bumps along the way. Success can be intoxicating, and The Game’s rise to the top of the Billboard 200 chart got to his head. The rift between him and 50 Cent grew wider. Rumors swirled, and accusations flew. 50 Cent claimed he had written several tracks on The Documentary, while The Game maintained his own creative contributions.

In the end, the truth lies somewhere in the middle. Yes, 50 Cent lent his voice to “How We Do,” but The Game’s unique style and storytelling were equally crucial. Their collaboration was a blend of talent, timing, and fate. And while they may have clashed, their impact on hip-hop remains undeniable.

So, what’s the relationship between The Game and 50 Cent now?

It’s complicated, as most enduring relationships are. They’ve traded barbs, but they’ve also acknowledged each other’s influence. Perhaps it’s the shared history—the highs and lows—that keeps them connected. Or maybe it’s the unspoken understanding that they both played a role in shaping the rap landscape.

In the ever-evolving saga of hip-hop, The Game and 50 Cent remain intertwined—a testament to the power of collaboration, even when egos clash. Their story is etched in the annals of rap history, a reminder that sometimes, unexpected alliances can change everything.