50 Cent accepting bitcoin for new record

Fans of the rapper 50 Cent will be able to pay for his new album, Animal Ambition, in bitcoins. 

The Queens, N.Y., “In da Cub” star, born Curtis Jackson, is teaming up with the bitcoin company BitPay to sell his fifth album, out on Tuesday.

While the album itself may be earning lackluster reviews from music critics, the announcement is another step forward for the fledgling virtual currency as it makes its way to the mainstream.

“We are excited to see high profile independent artists use bitcoin and 50 Cent's trail as an innovator is outstanding," BitPay executive chairman Tony Gallippi said in a statement.

Bitcoins only exist virtually but can be traded for cash or used to buy some goods and services at a growing number of shops.

50 Cent’s announcement comes on the heels of last week’s news that the satellite television provider DISH Network would also accept the money.

With Animal Ambition, 50 Cent is the highest profile pop culture figure to stake a stand in support of the emergent currency, which some have worried makes it easier for criminals to launder money.

In addition to his music career, the rapper is also an incredibly successful businessman, and is considered one of the wealthiest artists in his field.