50 Cent: 1, Kanye West: 0

Fiddy must be mighty happy to see his name above the College Dropout on Forbes’ Hip-Hop Cash Kings list for 2006. Kanye: PWNED.

By Josh

Curtis Jackson’s fiscal year sported a $36 million-dollar earning (ranking #2), most likely from his ridiculous Vitamin Water payoff along with his clothing line. Mr. West, on the other hand, raked in $17 million (#8) in total income – chump change when comparing to 50.

But does 50’s win in the Battle of the Bling have any effect on who will tally up more sales when both rappers release albums (Curtis for 50, Graduation for ‘Ye) on September 11?

It’s up for debate, but not likely.

Truth is, 50 Cent’s recent single output has been “ehhâ€? at best, forgettable at worst while Kanye’s “Strongerâ€? is a summer favorite amongst hip-hop heads and hipsters alike. Early responses to the billion-dollar question – “Which Artist Will Sell More Albums?” – have been flip-flopping.

If West does happen to reign (make it rain!) on that fateful day 50 has promised to drop out of music…as a solo artist. The Louis Vuitton Don recently turned down One-quarter-two-dimes-and-five-pennies’ invitation for an open debate on live television about the merits of their respective albums.

My bet? Be ready for a big upset.

Know this: September 11 will be a day to remember…?