"Guess Who's Back?" is the debut mixtape by American rapper 50 Cent, released in 2002. The mixtape served as 50 Cent's introduction to the music industry and helped establish his reputation as a rising star in hip-hop.
Featuring tracks such as "U Not Like Me," "Ghetto Quran (Forgive Me)," and "As the World Turns," "Guess Who's Back?" showcases 50 Cent's gritty lyrical style, aggressive delivery, and streetwise storytelling. The mixtape's production, handled by a variety of producers including Sha Money XL and Trackmasters, features hard-hitting beats and atmospheric instrumentals that complement 50 Cent's raw lyricism.
"Guess Who's Back?" garnered attention for its unapologetic portrayal of life in the streets, as well as 50 Cent's confrontational approach to rap music. The mixtape helped 50 Cent gain a devoted underground following and caught the attention of major record labels, ultimately leading to his record deal with Eminem's Shady Records and Dr. Dre's Aftermath Entertainment.
With its gritty realism and hard-hitting beats, "Guess Who's Back?" remains a significant release in 50 Cent's discography and a pivotal moment in his career. The mixtape's impact on the hip-hop landscape helped pave the way for 50 Cent's mainstream success and solidified his status as one of the most influential rappers of the early 2000s.
