View source for G-Unit Records

{{short description|American record label}}
{{pp-semi-indef|small=yes}}
{{Infobox record label
| bgcolor     = #000000
| name        = {{color|white|G-Unit Records}}
| image       = [[File:G-Unit logo.png|160px|class=skin-invert]]
| parent      = [[Universal Music Group]]
| founded     = 2003
| founder     = [[50 Cent]]
| distributor = {{hlist|[[Capitol Music Group]]|[[Interscope Records|Interscope]] {{small|(April 2003– February 2014)}}}}
| genre       = [[Hip-hop|Hip hop]]
| country     = United States
| url         = {{URL|https://thisis50.com}}
| location    = [[New York City|New York City, New York]], U.S.
}}

'''G-Unit Records''' is an American record label, owned by [[Universal Music Group]]. Founded in 2003 by rapper [[50 Cent]], the label was operated by [[Interscope Records]] until February 2014. Thereafter, distribution of G-Unit operated under [[Caroline Records]] and [[Capitol Music Group]]. The label had also launched the subsidiary label [[G-Note Records]], which caters to [[contemporary R&B|R&B]] and [[pop music|pop]].<ref name="ReferenceC">{{cite web|url=http://www.thisis50.com/forum/topics/gnote-records-is-a-divison-of|title=G-Note Records is a Division of G-Unit Records! More Info Inside!|access-date=20 March 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141009182140/http://www.thisis50.com/forum/topics/gnote-records-is-a-divison-of|archive-date=2014-10-09|url-status=dead}}</ref> The label's flagship artist is its founder 50 Cent.

==History==
===2003–2005===
Following 50 Cent's signing to [[Interscope Records]] in 2002,<ref>{{Cite web|url= https://www.blackentrepreneurprofile.com/people/person/50-cent#:~:text=G%2DUnit%20Records%2C%20founded%20in,distributed%20by%2C%20UMG's%20Interscope%20Records.|title=Black Entrepreneur Profile: 50 Cent}}</ref> 50 Cent was granted his own label, G-Unit Records, a year later. G-Unit Records replaced 50 Cent's previous imprint, Rotten Apple Entertainment.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20240321174019/https://www.mtv.com/news/y940f1/on-verge-of-blowing-up-50-cent-finds-value-in-his-street-cred On Verge Of Blowing Up, 50 Cent Finds Value In His Street Cred]</ref><ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20021020221725/http://www.rottenappleent.com:80/main.html Rotten Apple Entertainment Site]</ref> The rap group [[G-Unit]], then consisting of [[Lloyd Banks]], [[Tony Yayo]] and [[Young Buck]], was signed to the label as a group, with each respective member also being signed as a solo artist.  The first album released on the label was 50 Cent's debut studio album, ''[[Get Rich or Die Tryin']]''. <ref name="Allmusic">[{{AllMusic|class=artist|id=p555598/biography|pure_url=yes}} G-Unit biography]. [[AllMusic]]. accessed July 16, 2007. </ref> The album featured guest appearances from Young Buck, Tony Yayo and Lloyd Banks. Heavily anticipated upon release, ''Get Rich or Die Tryin' '' debuted and peaked at number one on the [[Billboard 200]], and has been certified nonuple platinum by the RIAA. The album featured the hit singles "[[If I Can't]]" and "[[21 Questions]]". 50 Cent's success became the foundation for other G-Unit artists to release music.  G-Unit's debut studio album, ''[[Beg for Mercy]]'', was released in November 2003. The album sold 377,000 copies in its first week of release.<ref name="TOSFirstWeek">Katie Hasty. (July 9, 2008). [http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/1044850/lil-wayne-back-on-top-of-the-billboard-200 Lil Wayne Back On Top Of The Billboard 200]. ''BillBoard''. Accessed July 10, 2008.</ref> It has now sold over 2.7 million units in the U.S. and was officially certified double platinum by the RIAA<ref name="BFMUS">Crosley, Hillary (April 24, 2008). [http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/1045760/g-unit-the-game-push-back-new-albums G-Unit, Game Push Back New Albums]. ''Billboard''. Accessed May 10, 2008.</ref> and 6 million copies worldwide.<ref name="BFMWorldwide">[http://www.nypost.com/seven/06292008/entertainment/music/return_of_the_rap_pack_117691.htm New York Post, Return of the Rap Pack] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080904054524/http://www.nypost.com/seven/06292008/entertainment/music/return_of_the_rap_pack_117691.htm |date=2008-09-04 }}. ''NYPost''. Accessed June 30, 2008.</ref> It has been certified double [[RIAA certification|platinum]] by the [[RIAA]].<ref name="BFMRIAA">RIAA. [https://web.archive.org/web/20150924151856/http://www.riaa.com/goldandplatinumdata.php?resultpage=1&table=SEARCH_RESULTS&action=&title=&artist=G-Unit&format=&debutLP=&category=&sex=&releaseDate=&requestNo=&type=&level=&label=&company=&certificationDate=&awardDescription=&catalogNo=&aSex=&rec_id=&charField=&gold=&platinum=&multiPlat=&level2=&certDate=&album=&id=&after=&before=&startMonth=1&endMonth=1&startYear=1958&endYear=2008&sort=Artist&perPage=25 RIAA Searchable Database - "G-Unit"]. RIAA. Accessed May 10, 2008.</ref>

[[Lloyd Banks]] released his debut album ''[[The Hunger for More]]'' on June 29, 2004 through G-Unit. The album featured guest appearances from G-Unit artists Tony Yayo, Young Buck, 50 Cent (who also executive produced the album), and The Game. Anchored by the success of the single ''[[On Fire (Lloyd Banks song)|On Fire]]'', it debuted and peaked at number 1 on the ''[[Billboard 200]]''.<ref name="harris2006">{{cite web|last=Harris |first=Chris |url=http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1543418/20061018/banks_lloyd.jhtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061110233804/http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1543418/20061018/banks_lloyd.jhtml |url-status=dead |archive-date=November 10, 2006 |title=Lloyd Banks Can't Catch Rod Stewart's Classics In Race For Billboard #1 News |publisher=MTV |date=October 18, 2006 |access-date=May 30, 2012}}</ref>  ''The Hunger For More'' was ultimately certified [[RIAA certification|Platinum]] in America.<ref>Winning, Brolin (June 8, 2014). [http://www.mp3.com/news/stories/6532.html Exclusive Interview with Lloyd Banks] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090203045907/http://www.mp3.com/news/stories/6532.html |date=February 3, 2009}}. MP3.com. Accessed July 31, 2007.</ref><ref>[https://www.riaa.com/goldandplatinumdata.php?table=SEARCH Searchable Database] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070626050454/http://www.riaa.com/goldandplatinumdata.php?table=SEARCH |date=June 26, 2007 }}. RIAA. Accessed May 30, 2022.</ref>

After bringing in West Coast rapper and [[Aftermath Entertainment|Aftermath]] signee, the [[Game (rapper)|Game]] in early 2004,<ref name="MTV-The Game">Reid, Shaheem (February 28, 2005). [https://web.archive.org/web/20050303020207/http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1497589/20050228/50_cent.jhtml 50 Drops Game From G-Unit; Shots Fired at Radio Station]. MTV. Accessed July 29, 2007.</ref> [[Spider Loc]] was also signed, around the time of Young Buck's ''[[Straight Outta Cashville]]'' release.<ref name="spi">[http://www.spiderloc.com/bio.html Spider Loc Bio] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080109094210/http://www.spiderloc.com/bio.html |date=2008-01-09 }}. SpiderLoc.com. Accessed November 29, 2008.</ref> However, Game and 50 Cent later had a falling out, and 50 Cent became unsure about signing new artists to his "family"—how he perceived G-Unit as a group and record label. Later in 2005, the opportunity came to sign [[Mobb Deep]]<ref>Lauren Gitlin (February 15, 2005) [https://web.archive.org/web/20060223184257/http://www.rollingstone.com/news/story/9317204/mobb_deep_get_hand_from_50_cent Mobb Deep Get Hand Out From 50 Cent]. [[Rollingstone.com]] Accessed November 29, 2008.</ref> and [[M.O.P.]]<ref>Ahsmi Rawlins (February 21, 2007) [http://www.xxlmag.com/online/?p=7859 M.O.P. Signs on To Push Sizzurp, Plans G-Unit Debut LP] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080313001402/http://www.xxlmag.com/online/?p=7859 |date=2008-03-13 }} ''[[XXL (magazine)|XXL]]''. Accessed November 29, 2008.</ref>

G-Unit Records ended 2005 with the November release of the soundtrack to ''[[Get Rich or Die Tryin' (soundtrack)|Get Rich Or Die Tryin']]''. The album featured appearances from  much of the label's roster. It peaked at number 2 on the ''Billboard'' 200, and would go on to be certified Platinum by the RIAA.<ref>[https://www.riaa.com/goldandplatinumdata.php?resultpage=1&table=SEARCH_RESULTS&action=&title=Get%20Rich%20or%20Die%20Tryin&artist=&format=&debutLP=&category=&sex=&releaseDate=&requestNo=&type=&level=&label=&company=&certificationDate=&awardDescription=&catalogNo=&aSex=&rec_id=&charField=&gold=&platinum=&multiPlat=&level2=&certDate=&album=&id=&after=&before=&startMonth=1&endMonth=1&startYear=1958&endYear=2008&sort=Artist&perPage=25 RIAA Searchable Database - "Get Rich or Die Tryin"]. Recording Industry Association of America. Accessed May 21, 2008.</ref>

===2006–2009===
In 2006, G-Unit Records signed [[Young Hot Rod]].<ref name=DefSounds>Al Capone (October 17, 2007). [http://www.defsounds.com/editorials/view/2550-hot-rod-talks-g-unit-industry-beefs-album-mixtape-more.html Hot Rod Talks G Unit, Industry Beefs, Album, Mixtape, & More] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071030174049/http://www.defsounds.com/editorials/view/2550-hot-rod-talks-g-unit-industry-beefs-album-mixtape-more.html |date=2007-10-30 }}. DefSounds. Accessed November 29, 2008.</ref> In the same year, in conjunction with [[Mobb Deep]]'s Infamous Records, the label signed both Nyce and [[40 Glocc]].  In 2007, Mazaradi Fox was also added to the label.<ref>Jon Michael (June 6, 2008) [http://www.sixshot.com/articles/11395/ Mazaradi Fox - Soldier's Story] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924102221/http://www.sixshot.com/articles/11395/ |date=2015-09-24 }} SixShot. Accessed November 29, 2008.</ref> It was also highly anticipated that Detroit rapper, [[Trick Trick]] would sign to the label,<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://24hourhiphop.com/hip+hop+Rumors/Trick+Trick+To+Sign+With+G-Unit%3F/1254/|archive-url=https://archive.today/20070626112319/http://24hourhiphop.com/hip+hop+Rumors/Trick+Trick+To+Sign+With+G-Unit%3F/1254/|url-status=dead|title=Trick Trick to sign with G-Unit?|archive-date=26 June 2007|access-date=23 December 2021}}</ref> though this deal never came to be.

In 2008, amidst rumors of a "beef" within G-Unit between 50 Cent and [[Young Buck]], 50 Cent officially expelled Young Buck from the group, though assuring that Buck was still signed with the label.<ref>Aliya Ewing (April 7, 2008) [http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.6705/title.50-cent-kicks-young-buck-out-of-g-unit-more 50 Cent Kicks Young Buck Out Of G-Unit & More!] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080410220839/http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.6705/title.50-cent-kicks-young-buck-out-of-g-unit-more |date=2008-04-10 }} HipHopDX. Accessed November 29, 2008.</ref> Numerous slander songs then arose on the internet from both camps, with Young Buck being included on a track with former rival and ex-G-Unit member, Game. 50 Cent then leaked a taped phone conversation between himself and Young Buck, which showed one of the true reasons for the falling out: 50 Cent was owed money by the Southern rapper. Young Buck later stated the conversation had taken place over a year before the leak.<ref>Black Widow (June 19, 2008) [http://www.sixshot.com/news/11534/ Young Buck Responds to Leaked Phone Convo With 50 Cent, 'I Don't Feel No Shame'] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924102251/http://www.sixshot.com/news/11534/ |date=2015-09-24 }} SixShot. Accessed November 29, 2008.</ref> The two camps have since released a multitude of songs aimed at each other, though the feud seems to have settled down as of late 2008.

In late 2009, 50 Cent's fourth album, ''[[Before I Self Destruct]]'', was released; which featured a track entitled "So Disrespectful", which insulted his various rivals including [[Jay-Z]] and former G-Unit Records artists, [[Game (rapper)|Game]] and Young Buck. Also in 2009, 50 Cent would collaborate with former [[Roc-A-Fella Records]] artist [[Beanie Sigel]], which would also lead to speculation that Beanie Sigel was signing to G-Unit Records.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.sohh.com/2009/11/50_cent_puts_beanie_sigelg-unit_signing.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100102194457/http://www.sohh.com/2009/11/50_cent_puts_beanie_sigelg-unit_signing.html|url-status=dead|title=50 Talks Possibly Signing Beanie Sigel|archive-date=2 January 2010|access-date=23 December 2021}}</ref> While promoting ''Before I Self Destruct'', 50 Cent also did a radio interview in which he spoke about the G-Unit Records roster. Within the interview, it was confirmed that Game, Young Buck, [[Spider Loc]] and [[Young Hot Rod]] were still signed to the label, while both [[M.O.P]] and Mobb Deep were no longer signed.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.sohh.com/2009/11/50_cent_released_mobb_deep_from_g-unit_r.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120222053109/http://www.sohh.com/2009/11/50_cent_released_mobb_deep_from_g-unit_r.html|url-status=dead|title=50 Says Game, Buck & More Still Signed To G-Unit|archive-date=22 February 2012|access-date=23 December 2021}}</ref> In the meantime, the label would go on to sign R&B singer, [[Governor (singer)|Governor]] and<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thisis50.com/profile/GOVERNORMUSIC?xg_source=profiles_memberList|title=OFFICIAL GOVERNOR PAGE's Page|access-date=20 March 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402104506/http://www.thisis50.com/profile/GOVERNORMUSIC?xg_source=profiles_memberList|archive-date=2 April 2015|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}</ref> [[Beanie Sigel]] on November 5, respectively.

===2010–present===
In early January 2010, 50 Cent claimed that he was looking to sign new comedians and authors to the label, venturing outside the realm of recording artists.<ref name="ReferenceA">{{cite web|url=http://www.thisis50.com/profiles/blogs/the-syndies-sit-down-with|title=The Syndies Sit Down With G-Unit's official comedian Jack Thriller [talks Gangs, Bull Dykes, Jail, Head, Fantasia, 50 Cent + Much More]|access-date=20 March 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402091818/http://www.thisis50.com/profiles/blogs/the-syndies-sit-down-with|archive-date=2 April 2015|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}</ref> [[Atlanta, Georgia|Atlanta]] Young Jack Thriller would be the first comedian signed to the label,<ref name="ReferenceA"/> releasing a weekly "So Disrespectful," YouTube podcast.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.boobootv.com/2010/08/23/young-jack-thriller-is-so-disrespectful-speaks-on-50-cent-wycelf-montana-fishburne-fantasia-more/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100826054739/http://www.boobootv.com/2010/08/23/young-jack-thriller-is-so-disrespectful-speaks-on-50-cent-wycelf-montana-fishburne-fantasia-more/|url-status=dead|archive-date=August 26, 2010|title=Young Jack Thriller Is So Disrespectful: Speaks On 50 Cent, Wyclef, Montana Fishburne, Fantasia & More - BooBooTV.com|access-date=20 March 2015}}</ref> also becoming a regular guest on Shade45's G-Unit Radio, and co-host of the program.<ref name="ReferenceB">{{cite web|url=http://www.thisis50.com/profiles/blog/show?id=784568%3ABlogPost%3A21343023&commentId=784568%3AComment%3A21345865&xg_source=activity|title=G-Unit Radio "So Disrespectful Edition" "B.Pumper" --World's Worst Freestyle|access-date=20 March 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite tweet|user=jackthriller|author=YOUNG JACK THRILLER|number=22383034685|date=28 August 2010|title=ON MY WAY TO SHADE 45 G-UNIT RADIO SIRIUS SATELITE TUNE IN 5-8}}</ref> 50 Cent also expressed interest in signing European R&B singer [[Jamelia]] to G-Unit Records, citing that it could not only help her build a reputation in the U.S., but it would also be the first signing of a female artist to the label since singer, [[Olivia (singer)|Olivia]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.tenerifehotel.net/en/aftermathmusic.html|title=Aftermath Music dot com &#124; Dr. Dre Eminem 50 Cent Busta Rhymes Stat Quo Eve Bishop Lamont G.A.G.E.|website=Tenerifehotel.net|access-date=23 December 2021}}</ref> Also in early 2010, in reference to his recent affiliation with 50 Cent and G-Unit Records, Beanie Sigel stated that he would not be signing with the label, as he and 50 Cent mutually "used" each other, though no harm to their business relationship was made.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ballerstatus.com/2010/01/09/beanie-sigel-says-50-cent-used-him-for-publicity/|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120719072043/http://www.ballerstatus.com/2010/01/09/beanie-sigel-says-50-cent-used-him-for-publicity/|url-status=dead|archive-date=July 19, 2012|title=Beanie Sigel Says 50 Cent Used Him For Publicity|work=BallerStatus.com|date=9 January 2010|access-date=20 March 2015}}</ref> Meanwhile, Young Buck responded to various songs released on 50 Cent's ''Before I Self Destruct''. He released five records aimed at 50 Cent, Tony Yayo, Lloyd Banks, G-Unit, and [[40 Glocc]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rapbasement.com/young-buck/010710-its-only-the-7th-of-January-but-young-buck-has-dropped-three-new-g-unit-50-cent-disses-listen.html|title=Buck Disses 50 Cent/G-Unit For 3rd Time|work=Rap Basement|date=7 January 2010|access-date=20 March 2015|archive-date=2 April 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402171425/http://www.rapbasement.com/young-buck/010710-its-only-the-7th-of-january-but-young-buck-has-dropped-three-new-g-unit-50-cent-disses-listen.html|url-status=dead}}</ref>

In an interview with MTV, 50 Cent announced that he is looking for new artists, "You'll see new faces, because I'm looking for new artists now. I'll sign new artists and take them with me and kinda groom them. Some of the stuff you can't teach a person; they gotta have it". While he was on tour, recently made affiliate Beanie Sigel confirmed after a long-awaited wait, that he would be finished signing to G-Unit when 50 got back from tour.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thisis50.com/profiles/blogs/beanie-sigel-speaks-on-new|title=Beanie Sigel Speaks On New Album, Confirms He's About To Do A Deal With G-Unit [Video]|access-date=20 March 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402134604/http://www.thisis50.com/profiles/blogs/beanie-sigel-speaks-on-new|archive-date=2015-04-02|url-status=dead}}</ref>

In August 2010, amidst the controversy surrounding Montana Fishburne's entrance into the adult film industry, co-porn star, [[:es:Brian Pumper|Brian Pumper]], released several rap songs shouting out 50 Cent, Lloyd Banks and Tony Yayo. Pumper repeatedly stated his wish to be signed to G-Unit. However, the members of G-Unit have repeatedly stated they are not interested in signing Pumper.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://theurbandaily.com/music/jbarrow/lloyd-banks-speaks-on-brian-pumpers-g-unit-dreams/|title=Lloyd Banks Speaks On Brian Pumper's G-Unit Dreams - The Urban Daily|work=The Urban Daily|date=30 August 2010|access-date=20 March 2015}}</ref> Also in August, Tony Yayo discussed how he and [[The Pack (group)|The Pack]] member, "Lil B," had hooked up and worked together in the studio, along with Yayo's newly proclaimed protege, [[Danny Brown (rapper)|Danny Brown]]. He also stated that there was a large possibility that Lil B might be signing to G-Unit Records, and spoke as if Danny Brown was already signed.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.rapbasement.com/videos/184101/Tony-Yayo-Talks-Lil-B-Coming-To-GUnit.html |title=Tony Yayo - Talks Lil B Coming to G-Unit Video &#124; Rap Basement |access-date=2010-08-13 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100816153318/http://www.rapbasement.com/videos/184101/Tony-Yayo-Talks-Lil-B-Coming-To-GUnit.html |archive-date=2010-08-16 }}</ref> Despite this, Brown confirmed that he is not signed to G-Unit yet, but he is talks of possibly signing to the label.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thisis50.com/profiles/blogs/detroit-rapper-danny-brown-on|title=Detroit rapper Danny Brown on 'Hawaiian Snow,' potentially signing to G-Unit, and what it means to be a mutant|access-date=20 March 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402125207/http://www.thisis50.com/profiles/blogs/detroit-rapper-danny-brown-on|archive-date=2015-04-02|url-status=dead}}</ref> Also in September 2010, there was quite a bit of speculation that R&B singer, [[Mýa]] was in the process of signing to, or was already signed to the label.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://yodonbleekraps.com/2010/09/16/50-cent-cooking-up-a-materpiece-is-mya-signing-with-g-unit/ |title=50 Cent Cooking up a Materpiece, is Mya Signing with G-Unit? « donbleek's Blog |access-date=2010-09-26 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100920230608/http://yodonbleekraps.com/2010/09/16/50-cent-cooking-up-a-materpiece-is-mya-signing-with-g-unit/ |archive-date=2010-09-20 }}</ref> Lloyd Banks later in September would confirm that [[Mobb Deep]] member, [[Havoc (Mobb Deep)|Havoc]] was in talks to negotiate a new contract for the group in terms of signing to the label.

On August 13, 2010, in an interview with [[MTV News]], Lloyd Banks announced that G-Unit had signed a limited distribution deal with [[EMI]] in North America. The distribution deal is "strictly with artists Lloyd Banks and Tony Yayo," as stated by 50 Cent in an interview.

In early March 2011, rapper [[Shawty Lo]] reported in an interview that he was in talks with the label about signing.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://hiphop-n-more.com/2011/03/shawty-lo-signing-with-g-unit/|title=Shawty Lo Signing With G-Unit ?|website=Hiphop-n-more.com|date=9 March 2011|access-date=20 March 2015}}</ref> On June 8, 2011, it was confirmed by both Shawty Lo and AllHipHop.com that he had signed a deal with G-Unit Records.<ref name="allhiphop.com">{{Cite web |url=http://allhiphop.com/stories/news/archive/2011/06/10/22786338.aspx |title=AllHipHop.com Daily News - : Exclusive: Shawty Lo Signs to G-Unit, Drops Mixtape 'B.H.F.' with DJ Greg Street |access-date=2011-06-10 |archive-date=2011-06-11 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110611224623/http://www.allhiphop.com/stories/news/archive/2011/06/10/22786338.aspx |url-status=dead }}</ref>

It was later confirmed by Shawty Lo that he had not signed to the label as an individual artist, but that his label D4L would be distributed by G-Unit Records.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thisis50.com/profiles/blogs/shawty-lo-speaks-on-his-new|title=Shawty Lo Speaks On His New Deal W/G-Unit & What He Brings To The Table "My Life Story Is So Real"|access-date=20 March 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402123322/http://www.thisis50.com/profiles/blogs/shawty-lo-speaks-on-his-new|archive-date=2 April 2015|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}</ref>

Rumors began appearing that Lea Sunshine, the singer who was featured in [[Lil' Flip]]'s hit single, "[[Sunshine (Lil' Flip song)|Sunshine]]", was signing to G-Unit. After touring with G-Unit and being featured on G-Note Records artist, [[Hot Rod (rapper)|Hot Rod]]'s debut single, she confirmed on her Twitter account that she had signed with G-Note Records.<ref>{{cite tweet|user=LeaQSunshine|author=Lea Sunshine|number=88654300397584385|date=6 July 2011|title="@PowerPete88: @LeaQSunshine any new music coming out and which producers does 50 schedule u to work with?" &lt;hopefully soon.}}</ref><ref>{{cite tweet|user=LeaQSunshine|author=Lea Sunshine|number=88321912819822592|date=5 July 2011|title="@illEssense: @LeaQSunshine lol.. Well if soo Congrats!!" &lt;thx :)}}</ref><ref>{{cite tweet|user=LeaQSunshine|author=Lea Sunshine|number=88278297351421952|date=5 July 2011|title="@illEssense: @LeaQSunshine ur gunit now? Ooman" maybe. Maybe not :P}}</ref>

After a cameo appearance in [[Tony Yayo]]'s music video, "[[Haters (Tony Yayo song)|Haters]]", it was reported by MTV that former [[Young Money Entertainment|Young Money]] affiliate, Kidd Kidd, had signed with the label.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://rapfix.mtv.com/2011/07/10/50-cent-introduces-kidd-kidd-to-g-unit/|title=50 Cent Introduces Kidd Kidd To G-Unit|work=RapFix|access-date=20 March 2015|archive-date=28 February 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140228075136/http://rapfix.mtv.com/2011/07/10/50-cent-introduces-kidd-kidd-to-g-unit|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://hiphop-n-more.com/2011/07/50-cent-signs-kidd-kidd-to-g-unit/|title=50 Cent Signs Kidd Kidd To G-Unit|website=Hiphop-n-more.com|date=10 July 2011|access-date=20 March 2015}}</ref> Soon after, {{Not a typo|Genasis}} reported via his Twitter that he had just signed a deal with 50 Cent and G-Unit Records after 50 Cent had seen a video of {{Not a typo|Genasis}} performing.<ref>{{cite tweet|user=otgenasis|author=O.T. GENASIS|number=93863847496122368|date=21 July 2011|title=I would luv to thank all Homies, Fans, Supporters and most of all @50cent for makin a nigga dream come true #SK #G-unit}}</ref><ref>{{cite tweet|user=otgenasis|author=O.T. GENASIS|number=93785593997312000|date=20 July 2011|title=Just inked a deal with @50cent ..I'm Officially G-unit records}}</ref>

In December 2011, 50 Cent signed [[Jersey Shore (TV series)|Jersey Shore]] star, [[Pauly D|DJ Pauly D]], to G-Note Records, to produce three of label's albums.
<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.djpaulydmusic.com/tag/dj-pauly-d-g-unit-records/ |title=DJ Pauly D G Unit Records &#124; DJ Pauly D Music |access-date=2011-12-04 |archive-date=2011-12-03 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111203220428/http://www.djpaulydmusic.com/tag/dj-pauly-d-g-unit-records/ |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.kovideo.net/dj-pauly-d-signs-to-50-cent-label-g-note-news-50-cent-4617.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120804183523/http://www.kovideo.net/dj-pauly-d-signs-to-50-cent-label-g-note-news-50-cent-4617.html|url-status=dead|title=DJ Pauly D Signs to 50 Cent Label G-Note|archive-date=4 August 2012|access-date=24 December 2021}}</ref>  On December 9, 2011, 50 Cent also released a mixtape, ''[[The Big 10]].'' Guest appearances on ''The Big 10'' include G-Unit affiliates, Kidd Kidd, Precious Paris and Tony Yayo.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/genre/hip-hop/2011/12/09/50-cent-drops-the-big-10-mixtape-feat/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211224000657/http://www.mtv.com/news/genre/hip-hop/2011/12/09/50-cent-drops-the-big-10-mixtape-feat/|url-status=dead|archive-date=December 24, 2021|title=News - Entertainment, Music, Movies, Celebrity|website=Mtv.com|access-date=24 December 2021}}</ref>  It also introduced G-Units newest signee, Paris.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thisis50.com/profiles/blogs/50-cent-present-the-big-10-new-g-unit-artist|title=50 Cent Presents The Big 10 + New G-Unit Artist|access-date=20 March 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402093856/http://www.thisis50.com/profiles/blogs/50-cent-present-the-big-10-new-g-unit-artist|archive-date=2 April 2015|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}</ref>

In the years to follow, 50 Cent would continue to struggle to maintain a palatable working relationship with Interscope. In a 2012 interview, he explained the reason for the discord: "The deal I gave them was so well-put-together for them that they were to receive $750,000 in advance on the next albums - each one of the artists. They gotta remove that in this climate of record sales".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.19645/title.50-cent-talks-new-album-explains-why-g-unit-was-dropped-possibility-of-working-with-game|title=50 Cent Talks New Album, Explains Why G-Unit Was Dropped & Possibility Of Working With Game|date=5 May 2012|website=HipHopDX.com|access-date=20 March 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140222025816/http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.19645/title.50-cent-talks-new-album-explains-why-g-unit-was-dropped-possibility-of-working-with-game|archive-date=22 February 2014|url-status=dead}}</ref>

In April 2012, (after being ousted from the crew in 2008), [[Young Buck]] entered talks to work with the label. Buck provided the update in a recent interview stating, "I'ma be honest with you, finally we're at a point where we're having some kind of negotiations with what they're going to be able to do for us at G-Unit."<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.bet.com/article/qgla1f/young-buck-says-he-s-negotiating-with-g-unit|title=Young Buck Says He's Negotiating With G-Unit|website=Bet.com|access-date=23 December 2021}}</ref> The Nashville, Tennessee native said he was ready to make a return to music, whether a part of G-Unit or not. Young Buck's last album was the 2010 independent release, ''[[The Rehab]]''. The negotiations may not lead to a new deal between Young Buck and G-Unit, but the rapper remains optimistic.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://thisbeatgoes.com/hip-hop-news/former-g-unit-records-rapper-young-buck-says-he%E2%80%99s-in-negotiations-with-50-cents-label-once-again/|title=The Beat Goes On|access-date=20 March 2015|url-status=usurped|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120513181051/http://thisbeatgoes.com/hip-hop-news/former-g-unit-records-rapper-young-buck-says-he%E2%80%99s-in-negotiations-with-50-cents-label-once-again/|archive-date=13 May 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.19270/title.young-buck-reveals-renegotiation-with-g-unit|title=Young Buck Reveals Renegotiation With G-Unit|date=4 April 2012|website=HipHopDX.com|access-date=20 March 2015}}</ref>

On February 20, 2014, it was reported that 50 Cent and G-Unit Records left Interscope umbrella to operate in conjunction with Caroline Records; a unit of Capitol Music Group.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.billboard.com/biz/articles/news/record-labels/5915479/50-cent-leaves-interscope-and-shady-brings-g-unit-imprint-to|title=50 Cent Leaves Interscope and Shady, Brings G-Unit Imprint to Capitol's Caroline|magazine=Billboard|date=20 February 2014|access-date=20 March 2015}}</ref>

On November 8, 2016, 50 Cent signed [[Uncle Murda]] to G-Unit Records.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.instagram.com/accounts/login/|title=Login • Instagram|website=Instagram.com|access-date=23 December 2021}}</ref>

In early 2018, Kidd Kidd announced his departure from both G-Unit as a group member and label artist.<ref>{{Cite web | url=http://www.xxlmag.com/video/2018/04/kidd-kidd-departure-g-unit/ | title=Kidd Kidd Leaves G-Unit to Find Success on His Own |website=Xxlmag.com| date=11 April 2018 }}</ref> Lloyd Banks followed suit in 2018.

==Subsidiaries==
===G-Note===
In 2010, G-Unit launched a subsidiary label called '''[[G-Note Records]]''', with a focus on [[Contemporary R&B|R&B]] and Pop music.<ref name="ReferenceC"/><ref>{{cite tweet|user=CodyKunigel|author=Cody Kunigel|number=15852871283113984|date=17 December 2010|title=@TJ_The_King G Note is a division of 50's G-Unit label that handles RnB and Pop etc all music outside of hip-hop}}</ref> Artists signed to this label are [[Governor (singer)|Governor]], who was signed to G-Unit Records in 2009, and [[Hot Rod (rapper)|Hot Rod]] who originally signed to G-Unit Records in 2006.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.codykunigel.com/hotrod.html | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110610143822/http://www.codykunigel.com/hotrod.html | archive-date=2011-06-10 | title=Cody Kunigel &#124; the Official Website }}</ref> In early 2011, Lea Sunshine was signed to the label, though she later left the label.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thisis50.com/forum/topics/it-s-official-lea-sunshine-is-singed-with-g-note-records-good-or|title=It's Official Lea Sunshine Is {{sic|nolink=y|Singed}} With G-Note Records! Good Or Bad Move?|access-date=20 March 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120804041247/http://www.thisis50.com/forum/topics/it-s-official-lea-sunshine-is-singed-with-g-note-records-good-or|archive-date=2012-08-04|url-status=dead}}</ref>  In December 2011, [[DJ Pauly D]] was signed to [[G-Note Records]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.17816/title.50-cent-signs-dj-pauly-d-to-his-g-note-label|title=50 Cent Signs DJ Pauly D To His G-Note Label|date=1 December 2011|website=HipHopDX.com|access-date=20 March 2015}}</ref> but has since left the label.{{citation needed|date=May 2018}}

==Artists==
===Current acts===
{|class="wikitable"
|-
! Act
! Year <br />signed
! Releases <br />under the label
|-
| [[50 Cent]]
| style="text-align:center;"|Founder
| style="text-align:center;"|5
|-
| [[Tony Yayo]]
| style="text-align:center;"|2003
| style="text-align:center;"|1
|-
| [[Uncle Murda]]
| style="text-align:center;"|2016<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.instagram.com/p/BMkWu6ZhFtv/ |title=Instagram |publisher=Instagram |date=November 8, 2016 |access-date=June 23, 2017}}</ref>
| style="text-align:center;"|—
|-
|-
|}

===Former acts===
{|class="wikitable"
|-
! Act
! Years on <br />the label
! Releases <br />under the label
|-
| [[G-Unit]]
| style="text-align:center;"|2003—2018
| style="text-align:center;"|2
|-
| [[Lloyd Banks]]
| style="text-align:center;"|2003—2018
| style="text-align:center;"|3
|-
| [[Young Buck]]
| style="text-align:center;"|2003—2008 <br />2014—2024
| style="text-align:center;"|2
|-
| [[The Game (rapper)|The Game]]
| style="text-align:center;"|2003—2006
| style="text-align:center;"|1
|-
| [[Olivia (singer)|Olivia]]
| style="text-align:center;"|2003—2007
| style="text-align:center;"|—
|-
| [[Spider Loc]]
| style="text-align:center;"|2005—2011
| style="text-align:center;"|—
|-
| [[Mobb Deep]]
| style="text-align:center;"|2005—2008
| style="text-align:center;"|1
|-
|-
| [[Lil Scrappy]]
| style="text-align:center;"|2006—2008
| style="text-align:center;"|1
|-
| [[Kidd Kidd]]
| style="text-align:center;"|2011—2018
| style="text-align:center;"|—
|-
| [[Rotimi (actor)|Rotimi]]
| style="text-align:center;"|2015—2018
| style="text-align:center;"|1
|-
|-
|}

==Discography==
{|class="wikitable sortable"
|-
!Artist
!Album
!class="unsortable"|Details
|-
| [[50 Cent]]
|[[Get Rich or Die Tryin']] <small>(released with [[Shady Records|Shady]] and [[Aftermath Entertainment|Aftermath]])</small>
|
*Released: February 6, 2003
*Chart positiom: #1 U.S.
*RIAA certification: 9× Platinum
|-
|-
|[[G-Unit]]
|''[[Beg for Mercy]]''
|
*Released: November 14, 2003
*Chart position: #2 U.S.<ref>Joe D'Angelo (November 19, 2003).  [https://web.archive.org/web/20070930222557/http://www.vh1.com/artists/news/1480528/20031119/g_unit.jhtml ''Beg for Mercy'' chart position]. VH1. Accessed 26 July 2007</ref>
*RIAA certification: 2× Platinum<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20150924151856/http://www.riaa.com/goldandplatinumdata.php?resultpage=1&table=SEARCH_RESULTS&action=&title=&artist=G-Unit&format=&debutLP=&category=&sex=&releaseDate=&requestNo=&type=&level=&label=&company=&certificationDate=&awardDescription=&catalogNo=&aSex=&rec_id=&charField=&gold=&platinum=&multiPlat=&level2=&certDate=&album=&id=&after=&before=&startMonth=1&endMonth=1&startYear=1958&endYear=2008&sort=Artist&perPage=25 RIAA Searchable Database - "G-Unit"]. RIAA. Accessed May 10, 2008.</ref>
|-
|[[Lloyd Banks]] 
|''[[The Hunger for More]]''
|
*Released: June 29, 2004
*Chart position: #1 U.S.<ref>''Billboard''. [{{BillboardURLbyName|artist=lloyd banks|chart=all}} Artist Chart History – Lloyd Banks]. ''Billboard''. Accessed July 9, 2007.</ref>
*RIAA certification: Platinum<ref>[https://www.riaa.com/goldandplatinumdata.php?resultpage=1&table=SEARCH_RESULTS&action=&title=The%20Hunger%20For%20More&artist=&format=&debutLP=&category=&sex=&releaseDate=&requestNo=&type=&level=&label=&company=&certificationDate=&awardDescription=&catalogNo=&aSex=&rec_id=&charField=&gold=&platinum=&multiPlat=&level2=&certDate=&album=&id=&after=&before=&startMonth=1&endMonth=1&startYear=1958&endYear=2007&sort=Artist&perPage=25 Gold and Platinum search results - "The Hunger For More"] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924153415/http://www.riaa.com/goldandplatinumdata.php?resultpage=1&table=SEARCH_RESULTS&action=&title=The%20Hunger%20For%20More&artist=&format=&debutLP=&category=&sex=&releaseDate=&requestNo=&type=&level=&label=&company=&certificationDate=&awardDescription=&catalogNo=&aSex=&rec_id=&charField=&gold=&platinum=&multiPlat=&level2=&certDate=&album=&id=&after=&before=&startMonth=1&endMonth=1&startYear=1958&endYear=2007&sort=Artist&perPage=25 |date=2015-09-24 }}. Recording Industry Association of America. Accessed August 27, 2007.</ref>
|-
|[[Young Buck]] 
|''[[Straight Outta Cashville]]''
|
*Released: August 24, 2004
*Chart position: #3 U.S.
*RIAA certification: Platinum<ref>{{Cite web | url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/08/young-buck-celebrates-10th-anniversary-of-straight-outta-cashville/ | title=Young Buck Celebrates 10-Year Anniversary of 'Straight Outta Cashville' |website=Xxlmag.com| date=25 August 2014 }}</ref>
|-
|[[The Game (rapper)|The Game]]
|''[[The Documentary]]'' <br /><small>(released with [[Aftermath Entertainment|Aftermath]])</small>
|
*Released: January 18, 2005
*Chart position: #1 U.S.<ref>James Montgomery, 2005-01-26, "[http://www.vh1.com/artists/news/1496275/20050126/game_the.jhtml Straight Outta Compton, Straight to No. 1: The Game Tops Albums Chart] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081020033331/http://www.vh1.com/artists/news/1496275/20050126/game_the.jhtml |date=October 20, 2008 }}" ''VH1.com''</ref>
*RIAA certification: 2× Platinum
|-
| [[50 Cent]]
|[[The Massacre]] <small>(released with [[Shady Records|Shady]] and [[Aftermath Entertainment|Aftermath]])</small>
|
*Released: March 3, 2005
*Chart position: #1 U.S.
*RIAA certification: 6× Platinum
|-
|[[Tony Yayo]]
|''[[Thoughts of a Predicate Felon]]''
|
*Released: August 30, 2005
*Chart position: #2 U.S.
*RIAA certification: —
|-
|G-Unit Records
|''[[Get Rich or Die Tryin' (soundtrack)|Get Rich or Die Tryin']]''
|
*Released: November 8, 2005
*Chart position: #2 U.S.<ref>Chris harris (November 16, 2005). [https://web.archive.org/web/20071001104908/http://www.vh1.com/artists/news/1513846/20051116/50_cent.jhtml 50 Cent Gets A Billboard Beating From Zellweger's Ex]. VH1. Accessed August 24, 2007.</ref>
*RIAA certification: Platinum<ref>[http://www.rockonthenet.com/artists-f/50cent.htm 50 Cent Timeline]. Rock on the Net. Accessed May 24, 2007.</ref>
|-
|[[Mobb Deep]]
|''[[Blood Money (Mobb Deep album)|Blood Money]]''<br /><small>(released with Infamous)</small>
|
*Released: May 2, 2006 
*Chart position: #3 U.S.<ref>Chris Harris (May 10, 2006). [https://web.archive.org/web/20071001130424/http://www.vh1.com/artists/news/1531452/20060510/mobb_deep.jhtml Tool, Pearl Jam Claim Billboard Chart In The Name Of Rock]. VH1. Accessed 27 July 2007.</ref>
*RIAA certification: —
|-
|Lloyd Banks
|''[[Rotten Apple (album)|Rotten Apple]]''
|	
*Released: October 10, 2006
*Chart position: #3 U.S.<ref>Chris Harris (October 18, 2006). [https://web.archive.org/web/20071001044152/http://www.vh1.com/artists/news/1543418/20061018/banks_lloyd.jhtml Lloyd Banks Can't Catch Rod Stewart's Classics In Race For Billboard #1]. VH1. Accessed August 24, 2007.</ref>
*RIAA certification: —
|-
|[[Lil Scrappy]] 
|''[[Bred 2 Die, Born 2 Live]]'' <br /><small>(released with BME)</small>
|
*Released: December 4, 2006 
*Chart position: #24 U.S.
*RIAA certification: —
|-
|Young Buck
|''[[Buck the World]]''
|
*Released: March 27, 2007
*Chart position: #3 U.S.<ref>[http://www.urbanconnects.com/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=375 Top Album Sales ANALYSIS 04/04/2007] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070927001658/http://www.urbanconnects.com/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=375 |date=September 27, 2007 }}. UrbanConnects. Accessed August 13, 2007.</ref>
*RIAA certification: —
|-
|G-Unit
|''[[T·O·S (Terminate on Sight)]]''
|
*Released: July 1, 2008
*Chart position: #4 U.S.<ref name="TOSFirstWeek"/>
*RIAA certification: Gold
|-
|Lloyd Banks
|''[[H.F.M. 2 (The Hunger for More 2)]]'' <br /><small>(released with EMI)</small>
|
*Released: November 22, 2010
*Chart position: #26 U.S.
*RIAA certification: —
|-
|[[50 Cent]]
|''[[Animal Ambition]]''
|
*Released: June 3, 2014
*Chart position: #4 U.S.
*RIAA certification: —
|-
| G-Unit
|''[[The Beauty of Independence]]''
|
*Released: August 25, 2014
*Chart position: #17 U.S.
*RIAA certification: —
|-
| G-Unit
|''[[The Beast Is G Unit]]''
|
*Released: March 3, 2015
*Chart position: #27 U.S.
*RIAA certification: —
|-
| [[Rotimi (actor)|Rotimi]]
|''Jeep Music, Vol. 1''
|
*Released: August 4, 2017
*Chart position: —
*RIAA certification: —
|}

==See also==
* [[List of East Coast hip hop record labels]]
* [[G-Note Records]]

==References==
{{Reflist|30em}}

{{G-Unit Records}}
{{Authority control}}

[[Category:G-Unit Records]]
[[Category:50 Cent]]
[[Category:G-Unit]]
[[Category:2003 establishments in New York City]]
[[Category:Companies based in New York City]]
[[Category:Contemporary R&B record labels]]
[[Category:Gangsta rap record labels]]
[[Category:Hardcore hip-hop record labels]]
[[Category:Universal Music Group]]
[[Category:Labels distributed by Universal Music Group]]
[[Category:Music production companies]]
[[Category:Music publishing companies of the United States]]
[[Category:Record labels based in New York (state)]]
[[Category:Pop record labels]]
[[Category:Publishing companies established in 2003]]
[[Category:Record labels established in 2003]]
[[Category:American hip-hop record labels]]
[[Category:American companies established in 2003]]