Where Did You First See 50 Cent? Fans Surprised by His Debut in Onyx’s 1998 Hit “React”
OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author's opinion.
Most fans of Curtis Jackson, better known as 50 Cent, might assume his first appearance on the music scene was his 2003 breakthrough album Get Rich or Die Tryin’. But many have been surprised to discover that his very first public debut actually came five years earlier—as an uncredited guest on the hardcore rap group Onyx’s 1998 single “React.”
The Onyx Connection and Jam Master Jay’s Influence
Before becoming a solo star, 50 Cent honed his craft under the mentorship of the legendary Jam Master Jay of Run-DMC. Jay played a pivotal role in launching Jackson’s career by inviting him into the JMJ Records circle in 1997–1998 and teaching him the ropes of songwriting and recording.
Jackson credits Jam Master Jay with landing him the feature on “React,” which he revealed in his memoir From Pieces to Weight. Jay “got me on a song called ‘React’” as a favor, even though no one anticipated the track would become a single.
“React” (1998): 50 Cent’s Official Debut
Released on June 2, 1998, “React” was the third single from Onyx’s album Shut ’Em Down, featuring Onyx affiliates alongside a then-unknown Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson. The track found moderate chart success, reaching #62 on Billboard’s Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs and #44 on Hot Rap Singles—giving 50 Cent his first taste of recognition in the industry.
The Music Video: A Memorable Introduction
Directed by Little X (now known as Director X), the “React” video premiered on BET’s Rap City on June 13, 1998. It showcased 50 Cent in hockey gear, including a memorable scene where he stands in a penalty box—his first on-screen appearance as a rapper. Years later, 50 Cent joked about learning to ice-skate for the shoot and asking to be placed “in the box,” not fully understanding why at the time.
Fans Rediscover the Moment
In recent years, social media platforms like Reddit and TikTok have revived interest in this early cameo. Fans often share clips asking, “Is this 50 Cent’s very first video appearance?” expressing surprise that his debut predates his solo breakout by nearly five years. Hip-hop history channels on YouTube also highlight this moment as a key starting point of his illustrious career.
Why This Early Feature Matters
This early feature on “React” was more than a cameo; it laid the groundwork for 50 Cent’s future connections with industry heavyweights Eminem and Dr. Dre. His 2002 mixtape Guess Who’s Back? reached Eminem through this network, ultimately leading to the pivotal Shady/Aftermath record deal that launched his solo success.
Moreover, “React” remains a milestone in late-’90s East Coast hip-hop, illustrating how established acts like Onyx helped introduce fresh talent—setting the stage for one of the biggest rap careers of the 2000s.
Next time you watch “React” or hear that 1998 track, remember: that’s where Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson first appeared on the world’s radar—years before In da Club, before Get Rich or Die Tryin’, and long before he became a global superstar.
