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28 March 2024

TRA unblocks 50 cent site ahead of Dubai show

Curtis Jackson. (GETTY images)

Published
By Sneha May Francis

It's double whammy for fans of rap star 50 Cent.

Not only is the celebrated American rapper making his way to Dubai, his official website, which was until recently kept under lock and key by the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA), has been taken off the blacklist.

His fans can now log onto his website -  https://www.50cent.com/ - and get all his news first-hand.

It is unclear if it is the star's infamous past or risqué musical legacy that left his official website blocked earlier.

A local newspaper has reported that the star will make his debut performance at the Meydan on October 19, as part of the one-day hip-hop and R&B Atelier fest.

Even last year, the rapper was scheduled for a concert as part of the Meydan’s Shoppisesta, but pulled out last-minute. He was then replaced by Sean Paul, Kelly Rowland and T-Pain.

The reasons for his absence had little to do with his infamous music legacy and more to do with a goof-up over contracts. A local newspaper quoted a US promoter, who claimed that he was never set to play in Dubai.

Even the show organiser had then stated that the American talent company they were liaising had failed work out a deal with the artist at the last minute.

The platinum-selling star had treated Dubai to a rocking concert in 2007, when he performed at the Dubai Media City.

Organisers in the UAE are often sceptical about bringing home international artists because of their inglorious past and racy acts, which could end up hurting the UAE sentiment.

Back in June, pop diva Madonna’s Abu Dubai concert had been hugely criticised after residents objected to her wild, uncensored act.

Surely, the authorities don’t want a repeat of the audacious play at the 50 Cent’s show.

50 Cent shot to fame in 2003, after his album ‘Get Rich or Die Tryin’ heated up the music charts. There has been no looking back since. He has also launched a film career and several business to top his success.