In the music industry, few decisions are as bold as walking away from a major label, especially one as renowned as G-Unit Records.

For Nigerian-American artist Rotimi, leaving 50 Cent’s label was not just a professional choice but a defining moment in his artistic journey—one rooted in his unwavering belief in Afrobeats.

Speaking with Adesope Live, Rotimi delved into the circumstances that led to his departure. He painted a vivid picture of the music landscape in 2017 and 2018, when Afrobeats, though growing globally, was still far from mainstream in the United States.

“I was signed to G-Unit, but then in 2017/2018, Afrobeats was not mainstream in the United States. Davido and Wizkid had records that were gaining traction in Boston, New York, but it wasn’t mainstream at that time,” he explained.

While cities like Boston and New York embraced the genre, Los Angeles, with its hip-hop-centric culture, lagged behind.

This presented a challenge for Rotimi, who was ready to commit fully to the Afro-centric sound. He recounted a pivotal conversation with 50 Cent, one that ultimately defined their professional relationship. “50 Cent and I had a conversation.

He was like, ‘What’s this sound you are trying to do?’ I said, ‘Bro, it’s Afrobeats.’” Rotimi, deeply passionate about the genre, tried to convey the potential of his work, particularly his single “Love Rhythm.”

However, creative differences surfaced, and it became clear that the label’s vision did not align with his. “I have a record called ‘Love Rhythm,’ and it’s going to blow up.

But if you don’t understand what it is, then I have to go somewhere else,” he said, recalling the moment he made the tough decision to leave. What followed was an amicable split.

Despite their differences, Rotimi acknowledged 50 Cent’s respect for his passion. “He let me out of my deal because we disagreed on the creative process, Afrobeats,” he shared.

Walking away from G-Unit Records proved to be a pivotal moment in Rotimi’s career. Free from constraints, he leaned fully into Afrobeats, a genre he sees as more than music.

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