In the mid-2000s, Mya, the R&B star known for hits like “Case of the Ex” and “Lady Marmalade,” found herself embroiled in one of hip-hop’s most notorious feuds.

The drama began when 50 Cent released a diss track that included a provocative lyric referencing Mya, dragging her into a conflict with The Game. This unexpected involvement sparked rumors and speculation that threatened to overshadow her career.

The controversy erupted in 2005 when 50 Cent dropped the track “Not Rich, Still Lying.” In it, he made a bold claim about Mya, suggesting a past relationship with both himself and The Game. This line ignited a media frenzy, with fans and outlets alike debating the truth behind the lyric. For Mya, this was more than just a casual mention; it was a direct attack on her character and reputation in an industry where such rumors could have lasting repercussions.

Initially, Mya chose to remain silent, but the disrespect she felt from the lyric was undeniable. When she finally addressed the situation, she firmly denied the claim, stating that it was not only false but also damaging to her integrity as an artist and a woman.

During a red carpet event, she famously refused to engage with a reporter from 50 Cent’s platform, asserting her stance against false narratives.

Behind the scenes, the situation escalated. A meeting at her label, Violator, revealed that someone involved confessed to lying about the original claim, confirming that the rumor had spiraled out of control. Despite this admission, the damage to Mya’s reputation was done. The association with 50 Cent and The Game lingered in public discourse, complicating her efforts to focus on her music.

Mya’s experience highlights the darker side of fame, where a single lyric can reshape an artist’s public image. As the feud between 50 Cent and The Game continued, Mya found herself caught in the crossfire, her name forever linked to their rivalry.

The narrative surrounding her shifted from her musical talent to sensational speculation, overshadowing her accomplishments.

As the years progressed, Mya’s career faced further challenges. While she continued to release music, her visibility in the industry diminished, especially as Beyoncé emerged as a dominant force in R&B. The media often compared the two, and Mya found it increasingly difficult to regain her footing in a landscape that seemed to favor newer stars.

In 2016, when Beyoncé released her album *Lemonade*, Mya’s name res

urfaced amid rumors of infidelity involving Jay-Z. Once again, she was pulled into a scandal that had nothing to do with her, highlighting how fragile an artist’s reputation can be when entangled in the narratives of more powerful figures.

Despite these challenges, Mya remained resilient. She continued to tour internationally and release independent music, carving out a space for herself outside the mainstream spotlight.

However, her journey serves as a reminder of the complexities of celebrity culture, where an artist’s true work can be overshadowed by controversies they never sought to be part of. By 2025, Mya was still active in the industry, but the shadow of past rumors and public perception continued to shape her narrative, illustrating the lasting impact of the darker sides of fame.