Early history
Originally from the infamous Marcy Houses projects in the Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood in Brooklyn in New York City, Shawn Carter was abandoned by his father Adnes Reeves when he was only twelve years old and he was consequently raised by his mother Gloria Carter. Jay-Z attended George Westinghouse High School in Downtown Brooklyn, NYC and Trenton Central High School in Trenton, New Jersey but did not graduate. He claims to have been caught up in selling drugs on the streets of New York in the Marcy Projects. In addition to this, Jay-Z has lyrically alluded to having sold crack cocaine and marijuana in Virginia and Maryland.
According to his mother, a young Jay-Z used to keep his siblings up at night banging out drum patterns on the kitchen table. Eventually, she bought him a boombox for his birthday and thus sparked his interest in music. He began freestyling, writing rhymes, and followed the music of many artists popular at the time.
In his neighborhood, Carter was known as "Jazzy," a nickname which eventually developed into his stage name, "Jay-Z." The moniker is also a homage to his musical partner Lee Dub (www.soundclick.com/kingdeezy) Jaz-O (a.k.a. the Jaz, Big Jaz) as well as to the J-Z subway lines that have a stop at Marcy Avenue in Brooklyn.
Jay-Z can be heard on several of The Jaz's early recordings, including 1988's "The Originators" and "Hawaiian Sophie", he also collaborated with Inglewood, California producer Three-1-Zero which began his popularity as an artist. His career had a jump start when he battled a rapper by the name of Zai. The battle caught the eye of many record labels, as Jay-Z was able to hold his own against Zai. He also made an appearance on a popular song by Big L, "Da Graveyard."
Commercial work
From the beginning of his commercial recording career, Jay-Z chose a route that many would consider untraditional. Rather than waiting to get signed to a major label, Jay-Z created Roc-A-Fella Records as his own independent label. After striking a deal with Priority to distribute his material, Jay-Z released his 1996 debut album Reasonable Doubt with beats from acclaimed producers such as DJ Premier and Clark Kent and a notable appearance by The Notorious B.I.G.. Although the album received critical acclaim, record sales were poor and were a disappointment.
After reaching a new distribution deal with Def Jam in 1997, Jay-Z released his follow-up In My Lifetime, Vol. 1. Executive produced by Diddy, it sold better than his previous effort even though Jay later explained that this was one of the worst periods of his life. He was reeling from the death of his close friend Biggie. Due to the glossy production on his sophomore album, many of the fans he'd earned previously now claimed he was selling out and catering to a more commercial audience. However, the album did feature some beats from producers who had worked with him on Reasonable Doubt, namely DJ Premier and Ski.
1998's Vol. 2: Hard Knock Life spawned the biggest hit of his career at the time, "Hard Knock Life (Ghetto Anthem)." Critics would still accuse him of becoming even more commercial and egotistical, due to the lack of intellectual matter on this album. He also relied more heavily on flow, developing it further, and he continued his penchant for mining beats from the popular producers of the day such as Swizz Beatz and Timbaland. Charting hits from this album included "Can I Get A..." featuring Ja Rule and "Jigga What, Jigga Who.". Vol. 2 would eventually become Jay-Z's most commercially successful album, certifying platinum five times in the United States.
In 1999 Jay-Z released Vol. 3... Life and Times of S. Carter. Despite continued criticism for his increasingly pop-oriented sound and a large number of collaborations that many felt crowded out Jay-Z himself, the album proved to be successful and went platinum three times. Through his lyricism, he was able to retain respect from some of his die-hard fans. Vol. 3 is remembered for its smash hit, "Big Pimpin" (feat UGK) and the negative remarks to then-underground New York rapper known as 50 Cent.
By this time, Jay-Z was seen as a hip-hop figurehead both by hardcore fans and by the corporations of rap due to his lyrics and his high album sales, achieving a pinnacle rarely held in rap music. The subject of much criticism, praise, popularity, condemnation, and discussion, Jay decided to begin developing other artists besides himself. Around 2000, he and Damon Dash signed various artists (including Beanie Sigel and Freeway) and began introducing them to the public. He next appeared on The Dynasty: Roc La Familia, which was intended as a compilation album to introduce these new artists, though the album had Jay-Z's name on it to strengthen sales and acclaim.
2001's The Blueprint is considered by many to be one of hip hop's "classic" albums, receiving the coveted "5 mic" review from The Source magazine. Released on September 11, 2001, the album managed to debut at #1, selling more than 450,000 albums in its first week.
The Blueprint was applauded for its production and the balance of "mainstream" and "hardcore" rap, receiving recognition from both audiences. Eminem was the only guest artist on the album, producing and rapping on the single "Renegade" (to which rival Nas would rap, "Eminem murdered you on your own shit" on "Ether.") The Blueprint also includes the popular "Izzo (H.O.V.A.)" and "Takeover", a song which takes rivals Prodigy of Mobb Deep and Nas. A large portion of the material on this album was produced by Kanye West and represents one of West's first major breaks in the industry.
A feud between Jay-Z and Nas culminated in "Takeover", a diss from Jay-Z to Nas, in the fall of 2001. Many fans praised the diss as an effective method to shut down Nas's career for good. Nas responded with the diss track "Ether". He shocked fans by creating arguably an even more lethal track than Takeover, and had regained his respect. Over the course of the feud, Jay-Z claims that he and Allen Iverson slept with Carmen Bryan, the mother of Nas' daughter, Destiny. Nas, in turn, accused Jay of brown nosing other artists for fame, and then leaving them for dead once he was famous. This feud proved to be a huge draw in the world of hip-hop. The feud died down over 2002 and was finally resolved in October 2005.
Jay-Z's next solo album was 2002's The Blueprint²: The Gift & the Curse a sprawling double-album which was touted by fans as having too much 'filler' or unnecessary material. It was later reissued in a single-disc version, The Blueprint 2.1, which retained half of the tracks from the original. The album spawned two hit singles "Excuse Me Miss" and "03 Bonnie and Clyde" featuring Beyoncé Knowles.
In 2003, Jay-Z toured with 50 Cent, Busta Rhymes and Sean Paul while finishing work on what was announced as his final album, The Black Album. Notable songs on the album included "What More Can I Say," "Dirt Off Your Shoulder," "Change Clothes," and "99 Problems." That song was a cross-over hit comparable to The Beastie Boys' "No Sleep Till Brooklyn" which some believe pays homage to the now-rare old-school rap style. A few of the songs done on this album portray a more personal side of Jay-Z; for example, "Moment of Clarity" sheds light on his feelings towards his estranged father and coping with his death. It also deals with accusations that he sold out to reach a wider audience. "What More Can I Say" addresses the "biting" accusations with which many critics have impugned him.
In 2004, there was a runaway hit remix project by DJ Danger Mouse called The Grey Album in which Jay-Z's Black Album vocals were blended with instrumentals sampled exclusively from The Beatles' White Album (which subsequently embroiled the DJ in a lawsuit that was later dropped with EMI, the owner's to the Beatles' work). This was made possible by an a cappella version of the "Black Album" that Jay-Z released with the specific intent for others to mix. The success of "The Grey Album" led to a rainbow of Black Album remix projects including "The Red Album", "The Blue Album" and so forth.
Also in 2004, Jay-Z collaberated with the triple platinum selling band, Linkin Park. The project was named Collision Course, and contained a six track EP, as well as a making of DVD. Some of the mash ups tracks were entitled Dirt Off Your Shoulder/Lying From You, Jigga What/Faint, and Numb/Encore.
Jay-Z returned with his comeback album on November 21, 2006 titled Kingdom Come. Jay-Z's comeback single, "Show Me What You Got", was leaked on the Internet in early October 2006, scheduled to be released later on that month, received heavy air-play after its leak, causing the FBI to step in and investigate. Jay-Z worked with video director Hype Williams, and the single's video was directed by F. Gary Gray. The album features producers such as Just Blaze, Pharrell Williams, Kanye West, Dr. Dre and Coldplay's Chris Martin. This album has sold more than 2 million copies in the U.S. alone. Jay-Z made a guest appearance on the Fall Out Boy album Infinity On High. Jay-Z appeared on rapper T.I.'s album T.I. vs. T.I.P. on the song "Watch What You Say to Me".
Jay-Z released his tenth album entitled American Gangster on November 6, 2007. After viewing the film, he was heavily inspired to create a new "concept" album that depicts his experiences as a street-hustler. The album features production from Diddy & The Hitmen, Just Blaze, and The Neptunes, among others. Guest appearances include Beanie Sigel, Lil Wayne, and Nas. The album sold 425,861 copies in it's first week and debuted at number one on the Billboard 200.
Recent years
It was announced on February 2, 2008, that Jay-Z would headline the 2008 Glastonbury Festival, becoming the first major hip hop artist to headline the British festival. Tickets sold out before the opening of the festival. One of the more outspoken critics of his selection was Noel Gallagher of Oasis fame, who criticized the organizers of the festival for scheduling Jay-Z as a headliner for the traditionally guitar-driven festival, stating "I'm sorry, but Jay-Z? No chance. Glastonbury has a tradition of guitar music and even when they throw the odd curve ball in on a Sunday night you go 'Kylie Minogue?' I don't know about it. But I'm not having hip hop at Glastonbury. It's wrong."
Controversy ensued in the months leading up to the event with artists, promoters and fans weighing in both for and against. Jay-Z responded to this saying, "We don't play guitars, Noel, but hip hop has put in its work like any other form of music. This headline show is just a natural progression. Rap music is still evolving. We have to respect each other's genre of music and move forward." In response to Gallagher's criticism, Jay-Z opened his Glastonbury set with a tongue-in-cheek cover of Oasis's iconic song "Wonderwall". His Glastonbury performance was heralded as a successful response to pre-festival criticism.
He also headlined many other summer festivals in 2008, including Roskilde Festival in Denmark, Hove Festival in Norway and O2 Wireless Festival in London. During Kanye West's August 6, 2008 concert at Madison Square Garden, Jay-Z came out to perform a new song and he and Kanye proclaimed that it was to be on The Blueprint 3. On May 21, 2009, Jay-Z announced he would be parting ways with Def Jam, and had struck a multi-million dollar deal to sign with Live Nation, with whom he would start his Roc Nation imprint which would serve as a record label, talent/management agency, and music publishing company and also partnered up with production team Stargate to start a record label called StarRoc. Jay-Z's 11th studio album The Blueprint 3 was originally to be released on September 11, 2009, but was instead released in North America on September 8, 2009, due to increasing anticipation. Its international release followed on September 14. It is his 11th album to reach No.1 on the Billboard 200 and has surpassed Elvis Presley's previous record, making him the current solo artist record holder.
On October 9, 2009, Jay-Z kicked off his tour for The Blueprint 3, during which he supported his new album in North America. In a Shave Magazine review of his performance at Rexall Place in Edmonton, Jake Tomlinson expressed that "It was the type of smooth performance you would expect from the hip-hop superstar." The review gave this performance 4 stars. His North American tour continued until November 22, 2009. At his concert on November 8, 2009, at UCLA's Pauley Pavilion, Rihanna joined him on stage and performed "Hard" for the very first time, then performed "Run This Town" with Jay-Z. Among his success, Jay-Z has ventured into producing Broadway shows. Along with Jada Pinkett Smith and Will Smith, Jay-Z helped produced the play Fela!, a musical celebrating the work of the late Nigerian star Fela Kuti. Jay-Z said he was inspired by the power of Kuti's work and his life story, which resulted in his interest to help produce the musical. Fela! is a story about an African pioneer and political activist who made his first moves on the scene during the 1970s.
Jay-Z performing at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in April 2010.
On January 23, 2010, Jay-Z released a track, "Stranded (Haiti Mon Amour)", with Rihanna, and U2's Bono and The Edge, as well as performing it at the Hope For Haiti Now telethon. In June 2010, Eminem and Jay-Z announced they would perform together in a pair of concerts in Detroit and New York. The event was dubbed The Home & Home Tour. The first two concerts rapidly sold out, prompting the scheduling of an additional show at each venue. Jay-Z was the supporting act for U2 on the Australian and New Zealand leg of their U2 360° Tour, beginning in Auckland, New Zealand in November 2010, followed by Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Perth in December. He also appeared on stage during U2 performances of "Sunday Bloody Sunday", and in Auckland also joined the band for a performance of "Scarlet", singing some lines of his song, "History". In August 2010, it was revealed that Jay-Z and Kanye West would be collaborating on a five-track EP entitled Watch the Throne. Although, it was later revealed by West that the project had become a full-length LP. Recording sessions for the album took place at various recording locations and began in November 2010. The first single released for the project was "H•A•M". The track was co-produced by Lex Luger and West himself. The track ended up being on the deluxe edition of the album. The follow-up to that was the second single "Otis", which premiered on Funkmaster Flex's Hot 97 radio show, and was later released to the iTunes Store eleven days later. The song's existence, along with several other tracks from the album, was confirmed during a listening session hosted by Jay-Z. The album was first released on the iTunes Store, five days prior to it being released in physical format, a strategy Jay-Z later said was used to block an internet leak. It debuted at No. 1 on the iTunes Store in 23 countries. It also broke Coldplay's record for most albums sold in one week on the online retailer, selling 290,000 copies on iTunes alone. It held that record, until Lil Wayne's Tha Carter IV was released twenty-one days later, selling only 10,000 copies more. It debuted on the US Billboard 200 chart at No. 1, selling 436,000 copies in its first week. The album received generally positive reviews. Jay-Z and West later gave a surprise performance of "Otis" at the 2011 MTV Video Music Awards. In April 2011, Jay-Z launched a blog-like, lifestyle website by the name of Life + Times. It covers everything from music, to fashion, to technology, to sports. The site is curated based on Jay-Z's interests, and he himself works with a small staff to produce every single piece of content.
Jay-Z collaborated with M.I.A. on the single "XXXO", which achieved a fair level of success and went on to become remixed by several producers worldwide. In May 2012, Jay-Z and Philadelphia Mayor Michael A. Nutter announced that Jay-Z will be the curator and the headliner for the first annual "Budweiser Made in America" festival at Fairmount Park in Philadelphia on September 1 and 2, 2012. The performance will be produced by Live Nation and will assemble an eclectic lineup of “rock, hip hop, R&B, latin music and dance” musicians. Jay-Z and Rihanna are to be the two main headlining acts for BBC Radio 1's 2012 Hackney Weekend music festival on June 23 to 24. Jay-Z opened his set with an appearance from Rihanna, they performed "Run this Town". On September 6, "Clique" was released, a single for the album "Cruel Summer", by GOOD Music. Kanye West and Big Sean star alongside Jay-Z in the track. Jay-Z took the subway to his sold out show at The Barclays Center On October 6, 2012.[91] On November 12, 2012 Coldplay announced that they will be playing with Jay-Z at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn on December 31.
On September 23, 2010, Q-Tip confirmed working on Jay-Z's follow up album to The Blueprint 3, saying the album was to hit stores by spring 2011. The album has not yet been released; it has been confirmed 3 songs have been recorded and one of which features Frank Ocean. In May 2012 it was reported that Jay-Z is working on new music with Roc Nation producer Jahlil Beats. In an interview with XXL, Beats stated: "Me and Jay-Z been going back and forth. He picked a couple of my joints that he’s working on. I don’t even wanna say too much about Jay, but we definitely working on some stuff. I haven’t even sent him a bunch of beats. I sent him my favorite stuff. He hit me right back like, ‘Yo, I’ma go in on this,’ or, ‘I like this.’” The album has been named one of the most anticipated albums of 2013 by Complex Magazine, MTV and XXL Magazine. Production will come from Jahlil Beats, Kanye West, Rick Rubin, Swizz Beatz, Timbaland and Pharrell Williams. Jay-Z also made an appearance on Justin Timberlake's comeback single Suit & Tie from his third studio album The 20/20 Experience, the song itself was produced by both Jay-Z and Timberlake's mutual friend, Timbaland.[97] During the fifth game of the 2013 NBA Finals, Carter announced that his twelfth studio album would be titled, Magna Carta... Holy Grail and would be released on July 4, 2013. He has been in the studio with various artists such as Drake, Nas, and Justin Timberlake working on the album.[98] In December 2013, it was announced that Jay-Z had received nine nominations at the 2014 Grammy Awards, more than any other artist. Jay-Z appeared on his Beyoncé's self-titled fifth studio album, Beyoncé, with a feature on the song "Drunk in Love". They performed this song together at the 56th Annual Grammy Awards opening.
Technique
In his earliest appearances, Jay-Z's style was less polished; he had a propensity for rhyming fast, which gradually lessened over the years. By 1996, he had become more known for his metaphors and similes, as well as being a rapper to stress the ordeals of the drug-dealer's life. Later, flow would become a big part of his style.
He has often pointed to his ability to switch from emotionally provocative material like "Song Cry" to mainstream topics, such as "Big Pimpin", as a sign that he straddles a line between material and intelligent rhymes that not a lot of artists have been able to do. However, he has been criticized for selling out to reach a mainstream audience, and he has acknowledged this on the song "Moment of Clarity".
Recently, producers and artists alike have been praising Jay-Z's ability to create verse after verse completely in his head without the aid of a pen and paper. His ability to memorize and recite verbatim line after line of lyrics is praised.
Retirement
On November 25, 2003, Jay-Z held a concert at Madison Square Garden, which would later be the focus of his film Fade to Black. This concert was his "retirement party." All proceeds went to charity. Other performers included collaborators like The Roots (in the form of his backing band), Missy Elliott, Memphis Bleek, Beanie Siegel, Freeway, Mary J. Blige, Beyonce, Twista, Ghostface Killah, Foxy Brown, Pharrell and R. Kelly with special appearances by Violetta Wallace and Afeni Shakur; the mothers of Notorious B.I.G. and Tupac Shakur respectively.
While Jay-Z had attested to a retirement from making new studio albums, various side projects and appearances soon followed. Included in these were a greatest hits record, mash-up projects and concert appearances with R. Kelly, Linkin Park and Phish. These appearances have kept Jay's name in the spotlight and furthered peoples' speculation that he would not remain retired for long.
Jay-Z was the executive producer of Fort Minor's debut album The Rising Tied. Mike Shinoda got together with Jay-Z himself, as well as his Linkin Park bandmate Brad Delson, and they went over what tracks they thought should make the album. Some of the tracks on the album include Remember The Name, Petrified, Believe Me, Where'd You Go and Right Now.
To celebrate the tenth anniversary of the release of Reasonable Doubt, Jay-Z performed a show at Radio City Music Hall on June 25th, 2006 and a rehearsal show at New York's Nokia Theatre one day prior. These shows will be followed by a world tour in September, calling at various cities throughout Europe, Asia, Africa and Australia. While locations for the tour have been confirmed, no dates have yet been given apart from 4 dates in the UK and 1 in Ireland.
"I Declare War" concert
Having been such a visible artist in the late '90s through the early 2000s, Jay has been the subject of more rap-related controversy than most artists in mainstream hip-hop. Some of these have been resolved, some are ongoing, and some have simply dissipated.
On October 27, 2005, Jay-Z headlined New York's Power 105.1 annual concert, Powerhouse. The concert was entitled the "I Declare War" Concert leading to intense speculation in the weeks preceding the event to whom exactly Jay-Z would declare war on. As he had previously "declared war" on other artists taking lyrical shots at him at other events, many believed that the Powerhouse show would represent an all-out assault by Jay upon his rivals. However, an anticipated response to subliminal shots taken by The Game and Cam'ron never materialized.
The theme of the concert was Jay-Z's position as President and CEO of Def Jam, complete with an on-stage mock-up of the Oval Office. Many artists made appearances such as the old roster of Rocafella records artists, Ne-Yo, Teairra Mari, T.I., Young Jeezy, Akon, Kanye West, Paul Wall, the LOX, and P. Diddy.
At the conclusion of the concert, Jay-Z put many beefs to rest to the surprise of hip-hop fans. Instead of declaring war, he declared that he was the "United Nations of this rap shit." The most significant development in this show was closure to the infamous beef between Jay-Z and Nas. The two former rivals shook hands and shared the stage together to perform Jay-Z's "Dead Presidents" blended with Nas's song "The World is Yours," from which "Dead Presidents" had sampled the vocals on the chorus. (Nas's verses were rapped over the "Dead Presidents" beat in the vein of a mix song done by DJ Statik Selektah.) Nas later performed songs of his own.
Beefs between other artists were also brought to a close (or put on hold) at the Powerhouse show. The event brought together for the first time in years, P. Diddy and The LOX, both who had a longstanding animosity due to a contract agreement between P. Diddy and The Lox and the latter's departure from Bad Boy Entertainment. Shortly after the concert, the beef was fully rectified.
The event also saw the return of Beanie Sigel from incarceration. There had been some speculation that Beanie Sigel was going to depart from Rocafella Records, but this concert proved otherwise. Beanie and The LOX's Jadakiss also officially ended their own beef when they, Jay-Z, the rest of the LOX and Sauce Money (who had been thought to have some animosity towards Jay) all performed the song "Reservoir Dogs."
Hip-Hop entrepreneur
Apart from being former President and CEO of Def Jam Recordings, Jay-Z is also one of the owners and founders of the Roc-A-Fella empire, which includes Roc-A-Fella Records, Roc-La-Familia, Roc-A-Fella Films and Rocawear.
At heart, Jay-Z is an entrepreneur like his fellow hip-hop-moguls-turned-friends Russell Simmons and Sean "Diddy" Combs, who also have business holdings such as record companies and clothing lines. He redirected the hip hop culture from hooded sweatshirts and baggy jeans to button-ups and crisp jeans, and received GQ's International Man of the Year award.
Roc-A-Fella Records
Jay-Z co-founded Roc-A-Fella Records with partners Damon Dash and Kareem "Biggs" Burke. Def Jam purchased a 50% stake in the company in 1997 for a reported $1.5 million.
In late 2004, Jay-Z, Dame Dash and Biggs sold their remaining interests in Roc-A-Fella Records and the label was retained as an Island Def Jam imprint. Soon thereafter Jay-Z was appointed the new President and CEO of Def Jam Recordings by Island Def Jam chairman L.A. Reid. Reportedly this major industry move was prompted by disagreement between Jay-Z and Dash as to what new ventures Roc-A-Fella could undertake.
The publicized split between Jay, Dash and Biggs led to the former partners sending jabs at each other in interviews. Dame Dash has made comment that after the break up he was portrayed as "Osama Bin Laden" to ensure that rappers would stay with Jay and not sign with him. Dash currently operates the recently-founded Dame Dash Music Group as a joint venture with Island Def Jam producing former Roc-A-Fella artists such as Beanie Sigel.
Universal Music Group announced on December 24th, 2007 that Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter stepped down from his post as president of Def Jam Records. The rapper, 38, served as CEO of the historic hip hop label since 2005. He will continue to work as a solo artist under the Roc-A-Fella / Def Jam umbrella, Reuters reports. Universal did not give a reason for his departure.
Rocawear and fashion
Co-founded in 1999 by Jay-Z, Damon Dash and Kareem "Biggs" Burke, Rocawear designed for and sought out a share of the lucrative urban fashion market already being capitalized on by labels like Phat Farm.
In 2005, Jay-Z bought out Rocawear co-founder Dash for an estimated $30 million and has sought to expand the company's reach by developing the S. Carter high-end clothing line. Jay also has a line of Reebok sneakers aptly named The S.Carter Collection, which holds the record for fastest-selling Reebok shoe in history and made him the first non-athlete to have a signature line of sneakers. In the spring of 2006, he is in collaboration with Swiss luxury-watch maker Audemars Piguet.
Entertainment and lifestyle
Jay-Z co-owns The 40/40 Club, an upscale sports bar which started in New York City and has since expanded to Atlantic City, NJ. Future plans will see 40/40 Clubs in Los Angeles, Las Vegas and Singapore. Roc-A-Fella also distributes Armadale, a Scottish vodka, in the U.S.
Jay-Z is a part owner of the New Jersey Nets NBA team, and is one of the franchise owners interested in relocating the team to Brooklyn. In October 2005, he was reported in English media as considering a takeover of Arsenal F.C., an English football team.
Personal life
Criminal charges
Jay-Z was accused of stabbing record executive Lance "Un" Riviera for what he perceived was Riveria's bootlegging of Vol 3...Life and Times of S. Carter. The stabbing allegedly occurred at the record release party for Q-Tip's debut solo album Amplified at the Kit Kat Klub, a now defunct night club in Times Square, New York City, on December 9, 1999. Jay-Z's associates at the party were accused of causing a commotion within the club, which Jay-Z allegedly used as cover when he supposedly stabbed Riviera in the stomach with a five-inch blade.
Jay-Z initially denied the incident and pled not guilty when a grand jury returned the indictment. Jay-Z and his lawyers contended he was nowhere around Riviera during the incident and they had witnesses and videotape evidence from the club that showed Jay-Z's whereabouts during the disturbance. Nevertheless, he later pled guilty to a misdemeanor charge which resulted in a sentence of three months probation. The New York Post reported that Jay-Z had bought out Riviera for $600,000 to cease his cooperation with prosecutors, and without the cooperation of the victim, prosecutors had to cut a plea deal that would not interfere with Jay-Z's touring plans. Riviera also dropped a civil suit, where he asked for $40 million.
Jay-Z makes reference to the trial and incident on his songs "Izzo (H.O.V.A.)", off The Blueprint, and "Dear Summer", which was included in Memphis Bleek's 2005 release 534.
Rival rapper Cam'ron has since claimed on his song "You Gotta Love It" that Jay-Z had actually "stabbed Un over Charli Baltimore". Some media moguls have criticized Jay-Z for not fulfilling his position as a role model due to these incidents.
Romantic life
Jay-Z is married to American R&B singer Beyoncé. In 2002, Jay-Z and Beyoncé collaborated for the song "'03 Bonnie & Clyde". Jay-Z also appeared on Beyoncé's hit single "Crazy in Love" and as well as "That's How You Like It" from her debut Dangerously in Love. On her second album, B'Day, he made appearances on the 2006 hits, "Déjà Vu" and "Upgrade U". In the video for the latter song, she comically imitates his appearance. The couple generally avoid discussing their relationship. Beyoncé has stated that she believes that not publicly discussing their relationship has helped them. Jay-Z said in a People article, "We don't play with our relationship." They kept a low profile while dating, and married quietly in April 2008. It became a matter of public record on April 22, 2008, but Beyoncé did not publicly debut her $5 million Lorraine Schwartz-designed wedding ring until the Fashion Rocks concert on September 5, 2008 in New York City.
Beyoncé and Jay-Z were listed as the most powerful couple for TIME magazine's 100 most influential people of 2006. In January 2009, Forbes ranked them as Hollywood's top-earning couple. They also made it to the top of the list the following year.
On January 7, 2012, she gave birth to their daughter, named Blue Ivy Carter. On January 9, 2012, Jay-Z released "Glory", a song dedicated to their child, on his social website LifeandTimes.com.
Do It Again
Jay-Z Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
Y'all know what this is
We givin' y'all five seconds to put your drink down
And report to the dance floor immediately
All the bustas we givin y'all five seconds to get close to a exit
It's about to get real ugly in here
Five seconds is up, let's go!
Throw the hands up (niggas)
Throw the hands up (bitches)
Throw the hands up (bustas)
Throw the hands up (hustlers)
Throw the hands up (hoes)
Throw the hands up (boasters)
Throw the hands up (Mac)
You know how Mac come through on the club tip
Everybody real deep on that thug shit
Cop Cris' spray the club on that thug shit
Cop frisks suits snub in the club quick
Told y'all real high, when I come you can try
If you want, you can die, if you want to
We hittin' whores on the floor, whole crew be wild
Bitch, back that ass up like Juvenile (huh)
When my peeps come to spend, a dime apiece
You know Mac come through with a line of freaks
Every bitch on the hit be a 9 at least
We gettin' head on the floor, while you grindin' freaks
Whole squad get it down like this
Whole squad buyin' rounds of Cris'
Whole squad got they crowns on wrist
Whole squad got a pound of twist
Whole squad got a pound to spit, in case a clown wanna flip
Mac never slip in the club
Told y'all niggas four-fifth in the club
If a nigga wanna draw then the blood it can drip in the club
You know how niggas get in the club
Shit you know how I be, all high in V-I-P
Rolling up to B-I-G
Niggas be all liquored up, talkin' shit
'Til they man gotta come and pick 'em up
Got bitches in the back bouncin' to "Jigga What"
You got your hands up and I ain't even stick y'all up
Throw the hands up
(Everybody get it up) throw the hands up
12 AM on the way to the club (uh)
1 AM DJ made it erupt (uh-huh)
2 AM now I'm gettin' with her (what up?)
3 AM now I'm splittin' with her (splittin' with who?)
4 AM at the Waffle House (Waffle House)
5 AM now we at my house (uh)
6 AM I be diggin' her out (who?)
6:15 I be kickin' her out (what?)
7 AM I'ma call my friends (uh-huh)
12AM we gon' do it again
We gon', we gon', we gon' do it again, let's go
Yo, how the fuck you gon' talk about MC's on our heel?
When we just cop them things homie the chromey wheels
Both arms are chunky the sleeves on chill
Any given times a hundred G's in your grill
Don't talk to me 'bout MC's got skills
"He's alright, but he's not real"
Jay-Z's that deal, with seeds in a field
Never fear for war, hug, squeeze that steel
Fuck, you got a flow, that's cool with me
You got a little dough, that cool with me
You got a little cars, little jewelries
But none of y'all motherfuckers could fool with me
You know the wrist frostbit minus two degrees
'Bout as blue as the sea the way I maneuver the V
Hat cocked can't see his eyes, who could it be?
With that new blue Yankee on, who but me?
Niggas shipped two million, then I blew the three
Then I skated the four, 'fore I went on tour
I came back and it's plain, y'all niggas ain't rappin' the same
Fuck the flow, y'all jackin' our slang
I seen the same shit happen to Kane
Three cuts in your eyebrows tryin' to wild out
The game is ours, we'll never foul out
Y'all just better hope we gracefully bow out
Throw yo' hands up, niggas, bitches, bustas
Hustlers, fuck that (throw the hands up)
Come on
12 AM on the way to the club (uh huh)
1 AM bout to shake the butt (uh)
2 AM now I'm checkin' the mix (ah yeah)
3 AM now he buyin' me drinks (what you drinkin' on?)
4 AM exit the club (let's go)
5 AM think he gettin' some butt (that's right)
6 AM nigga still ain't bust (what?)
6:15 nigga will get up (uh)
7 AM gotta tell my friends (uh-huh)
12 AM I'ma do it again, uh, uh
I'ma do it again
12 AM I'ma do it again
Uh-huh, uh, uh, let's go
12 AM on the way to the club
1 AM DJ made it a rub
2 AM now I'm gettin' with her
3 AM now I'm splittin' with her
4 AM at the waffle house
5 AM now we at my house
6 AM I be diggin' her out
6:15 I be kickin' her out
7 AM I'ma call my friends
12 AM we gon' do it again
We gon', we gon', we gon' do it again
Let's go
The song "It's On" by Jay-Z featuring Beanie Sigel is a classic hip-hop track known for its catchy chorus and hard-hitting verses. The song starts with a warning to the listeners to prepare themselves for the intense club atmosphere that the song is about to create. The lyrics then delve into the party vibe of the club, with references to drinking, clubbing, and hooking up. Jay-Z and Beanie Sigel trade verses, delivering braggadocious lyrics about their wealth, status, and dominance in the rap game. The chorus is repeated several times, urging the crowd to throw their hands up and party without inhibition.
The lyrics of "It's On" are typical of the club banger genre of hip hop, where the focus is on encouraging people to let loose and have fun. The song is an anthem for those who love to party and enjoy the good life. Jay-Z's verse is a testament to his wealth and success, while Beanie Sigel's verse is more confrontational, suggesting that other rappers are not on his level. The chorus is simple and effective, encouraging everyone in the club to throw their hands up and enjoy themselves. Overall, "It's On" is a classic hip hop track that perfectly captures the party atmosphere of a club.
Line by Line Meaning
Roc-a-fella
This is a declaration that the song is affiliated with Roc-a-fella, a record label founded by Jay-Z.
Y'all know what this is
This line is addressing the listeners, implying that they are already familiar with the upcoming song and its style.
We givin' y'all five seconds to put your drink down
The song is urging the audience to stop what they are doing and prepare to engage in the energetic atmosphere of the dance floor.
And report to the dance floor immediately
Listeners are being commanded to promptly move to the designated dance floor without hesitation.
All the bustas we givin y'all five seconds to get close to a exit
Those who are unable or unwilling to participate in the lively dance floor activity are encouraged to leave the premises within five seconds.
It's about to get real ugly in here
The song warns that the forthcoming atmosphere will become rowdy and chaotic.
Five seconds is up, let's go!
After the allotted time has passed, the song signals the immediate initiation of the energetic and thrilling experience.
Throw the hands up (uh, uh, uh)
This line instructs the listeners to raise their hands in the air with enthusiasm and excitement.
Throw the hands up (niggas)
The command to raise hands is specifically directed towards male listeners.
Throw the hands up (bitches)
The command to raise hands is specifically directed towards female listeners.
Throw the hands up (bustas)
The command to raise hands is specifically directed towards individuals who are acting weak or are not participating fully.
Throw the hands up (hustlers)
The command to raise hands is specifically directed towards individuals who engage in street-smart, business-oriented endeavors.
Throw the hands up (hoes)
The command to raise hands is specifically directed towards women who may be promiscuous or sexually liberated.
Throw the hands up (boasters)
The command to raise hands is specifically directed towards individuals who excessively boast or brag about themselves.
Throw the hands up (Mac)
The command to raise hands is dedicated to Mac, potentially referring to a specific individual or nickname.
You know how Mac come through on the club tip
The song acknowledges Mac's reputation for his conduct and behavior when attending clubs or party environments.
Everybody real deep on that thug shit
The majority of people present in the club are exhibiting a tough, aggressive, and street-oriented demeanor.
Cop Cris' spray the club on that thug shit
The individuals are purchasing Cristal champagne and using it to symbolically 'spray' the club, contributing to the rowdy and rebellious atmosphere.
Cop frisks suits snub in the club quick
After acquiring weapons, they swiftly disregard any potential consequences or opposition that may arise within the club.
Told y'all real high, when I come you can try
This line indicates that when Mac arrives, he is confident and in an elevated emotional state, challenging others to test or compete with him if they dare.
If you want, you can die, if you want to
The song suggests that engaging in an altercation or confrontation with Mac may result in death, depending on one's willingness or decision to participate.
We hittin' whores on the floor, whole crew be wild
The group is engaging in sexual encounters with women on the dance floor, exhibiting uninhibited behavior.
Bitch, back that ass up like Juvenile (huh)
A woman is encouraged to move her buttocks in a manner similar to the way it is done in Juvenile's song 'Back That Azz Up,' promoting a sexually provocative dance style.
When my peeps come to spend, a dime apiece
Mac's companions arrive with the intention of spending ten thousand dollars each, indicating their financial capability and willingness to indulge.
You know Mac come through with a line of freaks
Mac is known for having a group of sexually adventurous or unconventional individuals accompanying him.
Every bitch on the hit be a 9 at least
The women Mac associates with are considered highly attractive, with the lowest rating being a 9 out of 10.
We gettin' head on the floor, while you grindin' freaks
Mac and his group are engaging in sexual acts, specifically oral sex, while others are simply grinding or dancing provocatively.
Whole squad get it down like this
The entire group is actively participating and enjoying themselves in a particular manner, indicating unity and synchrony.
Whole squad buyin' rounds of Cris'
The entire group is collectively purchasing rounds of Cristal champagne, contributing to a lavish and extravagant atmosphere.
Whole squad got they crowns on wrist
Each member of the group is wearing expensive jewelry, typically in the form of bracelets or watches.
Whole squad got a pound of twist
The entire group possesses a significant amount of marijuana, specifically referring to one pound twisted into joints.
Whole squad got a pound to spit, in case a clown wanna flip
The group possesses enough marijuana to consume or share, in case any individual tries to challenge or provoke them.
Mac never slip in the club
Mac is known for his ability to navigate and handle himself flawlessly in club environments, avoiding mistakes or mishaps.
Told y'all niggas four-fifth in the club
Mac warns others that he carries a .45 caliber gun for protection while in the club, asserting his authority and potential for violence if necessary.
If a nigga wanna draw then the blood it can drip in the club
If an individual tries to start a confrontation or provoke Mac, violence can escalate and result in bloodshed within the club.
You know how niggas get in the club
The song acknowledges the typical behavior and conduct of men when they are in clubs or party environments.
Shit you know how I be, all high in V-I-P
Mac describes his usual behavior, being in an elevated state due to drug consumption or being in the VIP section of the club.
Rolling up to B-I-G
Mac is arriving at the club while listening to the music of the late rapper the Notorious B.I.G., paying homage to his legacy.
Niggas be all liquored up, talkin' shit
The men in the club become intoxicated and start bragging or speaking boastfully, often in a confrontational or aggressive manner.
'Til they man gotta come and pick 'em up
Those individuals who become intoxicated and disruptive eventually need their friends to intervene and escort them out of the club due to their incapacity to handle themselves.
Got bitches in the back bouncin' to 'Jigga What'
There are women in the rear area of the club dancing energetically to Jay-Z's song 'Jigga What,' displaying their enthusiasm and enjoyment.
You got your hands up and I ain't even stick y'all up
The song acknowledges that the listeners have raised their hands in the air, but unlike a robbery, it is a voluntary action done out of excitement and participation.
12 AM on the way to the club (uh)
The song sets the timeline at midnight when individuals are preparing to go to the club.
1 AM DJ made it erupt (uh-huh)
By the time it is 1 AM, the DJ has created a lively and energetic atmosphere within the club.
2 AM now I'm gettin' with her (what up?)
At 2 AM, Mac has found a woman to engage with in a romantic or sexual manner.
3 AM now I'm splittin' with her (splittin' with who?)
At 3 AM, the encounter with the woman has progressed, and they are leaving together or separating from the rest of the crowd.
4 AM at the Waffle House (Waffle House)
By 4 AM, Mac and the woman have relocated to the Waffle House, a popular late-night dining spot.
5 AM now we at my house (uh)
At 5 AM, the woman is at Mac's residence, implying they have engaged in intimate activities.
6 AM I be diggin' her out (who?)
By 6 AM, Mac is involved in sexual intercourse with the woman, emphasizing his sexual prowess.
6:15 I be kickin' her out (what?)
At 6:15 AM, Mac concludes the intimate encounter and requests the woman to leave his residence.
7 AM I'ma call my friends (uh-huh)
By 7 AM, Mac plans to contact his friends, possibly to inform them of his recent experiences or seek their company.
12 AM we gon' do it again
The song suggests that the cycle of late-night activities is likely to be repeated, with plans to return to the club at midnight.
We gon', we gon', we gon' do it again, let's go
There is an enthusiastic call to repeat the previous sequence of events, emphasizing the anticipation and excitement for another night of enjoyment.
Yo, how the fuck you gon' talk about MC's on our heel?
The song confronts someone who is criticizing or speaking ill of the MC's or rappers affiliated with Roc-a-fella.
When we just cop them things homie the chromey wheels
The MC's have recently acquired luxurious vehicles, specifically referring to cars with chrome wheels, highlighting their wealth and status.
Both arms are chunky the sleeves on chill
The MC's are displaying their expensive and flashy jewelry, specifically referring to their thick and bulky bracelets or accessories.
Any given times a hundred G's in your grill
At any moment, the MC's can have a hundred thousand dollars in cash, symbolizing their financial success and ability to invest in expensive dental jewelry or 'grillz.'
Don't talk to me 'bout MC's got skills
The song dismisses any discussion or comparison regarding the skill or talent of other MC's, asserting their superiority.
"He's alright, but he's not real"
Despite acknowledging the existence of other MC's, their authenticity and genuineness are called into question, suggesting they are not on the same level as the Roc-a-fella artists.
Jay-Z's that deal, with seeds in a field
Jay-Z is referred to as the real deal, comparing him to a farmer who has sown the seeds of his success in the music industry.
Never fear for war, hug, squeeze that steel
Jay-Z and his associates are not afraid of engaging in conflict or violence if necessary, suggesting their readiness to defend themselves with weapons.
Fuck, you got a flow, that's cool with me
Despite acknowledging the talent or style of other rappers, it is of no concern to Jay-Z, implying that he does not feel threatened or overshadowed by their abilities.
You got a little dough, that cool with me
The song acknowledges that other rappers may have some financial success, but it is of no importance to Jay-Z as it does not affect or impact him.
You got a little cars, little jewelries
The possessions, such as cars and jewelry, that other rappers have acquired are considered minimal or insignificant compared to Jay-Z's own wealth and collection.
But none of y'all motherfuckers could fool with me
Regardless of the accomplishments or possessions of other rappers, none of them can compete or compare to Jay-Z's skill, success, and overall persona.
You know the wrist frostbit minus two degrees
Jay-Z's wrist, adorned with expensive jewelry, is so cold and dazzling that it can cause frostbite even at temperatures two degrees below freezing.
'Bout as blue as the sea the way I maneuver the V
The song metaphorically compares Jay-Z's luxury vehicle, possibly a blue-colored one, to the blue color of the sea, highlighting his finesse and expertise in driving it.
Hat cocked can't see his eyes, who could it be?
Jay-Z is wearing his hat in a tilted or cocked manner, obscuring his eyes and creating an air of mystery and intrigue around his identity.
With that new blue Yankee on, who but me?
Jay-Z is wearing a new blue-colored Yankee cap, indicating his status, influence, and unique style that sets him apart from others.
Niggas shipped two million, then I blew the three
Jay-Z's album sales reached two million copies, a significant achievement, but he surpassed expectations and exceeded three million copies sold, showcasing his immense popularity and success.
Then I skated the four, 'fore I went on tour
Before embarking on a tour, Jay-Z quickly and efficiently completed a business deal worth four million dollars, emphasizing his ability to maximize financial opportunities.
I came back and it's plain, y'all niggas ain't rappin' the same
After returning from his tour, Jay-Z notices that the style and quality of other rappers' music has become noticeably inferior or subpar compared to his own.
Fuck the flow, y'all jackin' our slang
Jay-Z undermines the significance or uniqueness of other rappers' flow or style, asserting that they are merely imitating or copying the slang and language associated with Roc-a-fella.
I seen the same shit happen to Kane
Jay-Z recalls a similar situation where rapper Big Daddy Kane faced a decline in fame and relevance, suggesting that other rappers are destined for a similar fate if they continue on that path.
Three cuts in your eyebrows tryin' to wild out
The song criticizes individuals who purposefully style three distinct cuts into their eyebrows as an attempt to appear rebellious or edgy, considering it a superficial and unimpressive act.
The game is ours, we'll never foul out
Jay-Z asserts that the rap game or industry belongs to him and his associates, emphasizing their dominance and ability to maintain control without ever succumbing to defeat or failure.
Y'all just better hope we gracefully bow out
Other rappers should have the expectation that Jay-Z and his crew will eventually retire from the rap game with dignity, allowing new generations to take the spotlight.
Throw yo' hands up, niggas, bitches, bustas
The song urges everyone, including men, women, and weak individuals, to raise their hands in the air collectively and participate in the lively atmosphere.
Hustlers, fuck that (throw the hands up)
The song dismisses or excludes hustlers, suggesting that they should not participate in the energetic activity of raising their hands.
Come on
This is a general exhortation, encouraging everyone to join in and actively engage in the exciting atmosphere.
12 AM on the way to the club
The song reiterates the beginning of the night, specifically mentioning midnight when individuals are en route to the club.
1 AM bout to shake the butt
By 1 AM, individuals are preparing to dance energetically and provocatively, emphasizing the lively and fun nature of the atmosphere.
2 AM now I'm checkin' the mix
At 2 AM, the singer is assessing the quality of the music or DJ's performance, ensuring that it meets their satisfaction and adds to the overall enjoyment.
3 AM now he buyin' me drinks
At 3 AM, someone is taking the initiative to buy drinks for the artist, indicating their interest or attraction towards them.
4 AM exit the club (let's go)
By 4 AM, the club experience is concluding, and it is time to leave, prompting the urgent call to action.
5 AM think he gettin' some butt (that's right)
By 5 AM, the individual with romantic or sexual interest anticipates engaging in sexual activities with the singer, displaying their confidence or assumptions.
6 AM nigga still ain't bust (what?)
By 6 AM, the aforementioned individual has still not achieved sexual satisfaction, despite the prolonged time and effort invested.
6:15 nigga will get up (uh)
At 6:15 AM, the sexually frustrated individual finally decides to rise from the bed or couch, potentially leaving the artist's residence.
7 AM gotta tell my friends (uh-huh)
By 7 AM, the artist feels compelled to share the details or outcome of their late-night experience with their friends, demonstrating the significance of the encounter.
12 AM I'ma do it again
The song affirms the intention to repeat the late-night activities, specifying that at midnight, the cycle will begin anew.
Uh-huh, uh, uh, let's go
Utilizing various interjections, the song emphasizes the enthusiasm and eagerness to engage in the subsequent night of enjoyment and thrill.
Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Universal Music Publishing Group, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd., Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Dwight Grant, Kyambo Joshua, Dana Stinson, Shawn Corey Carter
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@peopleschampiii584
"He's alright but, but he's not real" J was talking his shit on this one. One of my favorite J verses.
@yea728
Basic ass bar 😂
@AridGems
I'm 40 yrs old now. This song reminds me of my youth. Rap City in the Basement days. Dope ass time to be alive.
@wendykirschner147
Yes..I just listened to THIS and my mind went all the way back
@laquanedwards7366
I just turned 40 to I feel u
@laquanedwards7366
Major Facts high school shit
@letsbefair2675
For me it was clubbing days!! Miami nights!
@ramsesiglesias7296
anybody ever will made music like this
@youngking2067
Jay Z's swag and confidence is on another level
@deserie8886
Lol right!