Hip-hop star Curtis James Jackson III, better known as 50 Cent, will make an appearance at Kent’s Water Street Tavern on March 4.

The 40-year-old rapper, famous for such hits as “In Da Club” and “Candy Shop,” will be in the area promoting Effen Vodka. Jackson signed an endorsement deal with Effen last year.

“We were actually contacted by Effen Vodka and told that we could have 50 Cent come to the Tavern and promote this drink, since he represents the brand and we carry (the brand of vodka),” said Victor Kutsch, a bartender at Water Street Tavern. 

A $150 VIP package will be available, which includes a full bottle of Effen Vodka signed by the guest of honor as well as the opportunity for the purchaser of the package and up to three guests to enter the bar without waiting in line. Once the bottle has been purchased and opened, though, it must be finished before leaving Water Street Tavern. The $150 fee includes mixers for the vodka. 

“While 50 Cent will be at the Tavern from midnight to 1 a.m., there’s no guarantee that he will perform,” Kutsch said. “He will be posted on the main stage and be a type of meet-and-greet type of deal.” 

Hosted by Party Pana, 50 Cent has been visiting area bars over the past few months, including a recent trip to Cleveland’s Vault at the 9 in January. 

Water Street Tavern is currently hosting a social media competition for a free VIP package. Winners will be announced Feb. 26.

Packages can be purchased by emailing [email protected].

Taylor Kerns is the parking and transportation reporter and Angelo Angel is the entertainment reporter for The Kent Stater.