When you think of rapper 50 Cent, your first inclination isn't likely "indie guy," but now that's what the "In Da Club" rapper is. After years on Interscope Records and Eminem's Shady/Aftermath imprint, 50 Cent is going out to a smaller label.
Today (Feb. 20), 50 Cent announced he has signed with Caroline, an independent label at Capitol Music Group, according to ABC News.
50 Cent's new label announcement follows struggles the rapper has had with his label over recent years over the release and promotion of his music. Notably, his fifth studio album Street King Immortal has faced multiple delays since 2012 and has still yet to see the light of day.
Regardless, 50 Cent will be releasing a new album this year. According to Billboard, Animal Ambition will debut on June 3. It will be 50 Cent's first studio album since 2009's Before I Self Destruct. Like Street King Immortal, that album also faced several delays and release dates.
Despite the squabbles, Interscope and Eminem are support 50 Cent's choice to depart. "Both myself and Shady Records are grateful to have had the chance to play a part in 50's career," Eminem said in a statement. "Shady simply would not be what it is without 50 Cent. I've developed a great friendship with 50 over the years, and that's not going to change. We know 50 will have success in his new situation, and we remain supporters of both him and G-Unit."
