Despite being a chart-topping recording artist,
50 Cent’s music isn’t always welcomed “In Da Club.”
Fearing an outbreak of fights ignited by the
rapper’s songs, a Connecticut bar owner has banned 50 Cent from the play
list during hip-hop nights at his establishment.
"Anything too hardcore or an anthem-type
song that pumps the crowd up is not something I really want played," Robert
Peterson, owner of Longshot Sports Bar & Grill, told the New Britain Herald.
Since many of the songs from 50 Cent’s catalogue
rely heavily on chorus and melodies, such as “What Up Gansta” and
“Many Men (Wish Death),” Peterson decided to exclude those selections,
which he felt could incite violence.
Instead, Peterson focuses on playing music that
is more upbeat and positive. "I try to mix it up and really play music
people can dance to, stay busy," he said.
Rather than blame the raucous activity on the
patrons, however, Peterson squarely placed the burden on the music.
"It’s really not about who’s in
the crowd. It’s the music today; most of it is really not about respect,"
he asserted.
Notwithstanding his contempt for the G-Unit
soldier, Peterson admitted he has no reservations about hip-hop specifically.
It’s not the genre he has a problem with more so than the incendiary elements—regardless
of the type of music.
"I know I can listen to hardcore rap or
rock and be fine,” he said. “But I’ve seen some individuals who
can’t handle that kind of stimulation."
Ten days ago, 50 Cent was involved in a melee
at a small club in Springfield, Massachusetts. After being hit in the head by
a water bottle during his performance, the rapper jumped into the crowd after
the antagonist.
A brawl ensued and currently police are still
investigating the incident.
