"Curtis" is the third studio album by American rapper 50 Cent, released on September 11, 2007, through Shady Records, Aftermath Entertainment, G-Unit Records, Interscope Records, and Universal Music Group. The album features production from prominent figures such as Dr. Dre, Eminem, and Timbaland. Curtis is noted for its division between "hard" and "soft" songs, reflecting a blend of tough, street-oriented tracks and more commercially accessible ones. The album underwent several changes leading up to its release and was highly anticipated following the success of 50 Cent's previous albums, Get Rich or Die Tryin' (2003) and The Massacre (2005).
Upon release, Curtis received generally mixed reviews from critics. It debuted at number two on the US Billboard 200, selling 691,000 copies in its first week, marking 50 Cent's third consecutive top-five album in the United States. The competition with Kanye West's Graduation and the resulting record-breaking performances by both albums was seen as a significant moment for hip-hop.
The album was supported by successful singles, including "Ayo Technology," which reached the top ten on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at number five, and "I Get Money," which entered the top 20.