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Tuesday, December 3, 2013

TURN IT UP TUESDAYS . . . RAP/HIP HOP


JAY Z
 
 
 
On this week's Turn it Up Tuesdays, I'm featuring rapper, Jay Z.  Born Shawn Corey Carter (hereinafter Jay Z). 
 
Jay Z's musical career began back in the 1980s.  He grew up in Bedford Stuyvesant, Brooklyn in the Marcy Projects.  Folks in his neighborhood called him "Jazzy".  The nickname also pays homage to his musical mentor, Jaz-O as well as the J/Z subway line that stops at Marcy Avenue in Brooklyn, NY.  He started writing lyrics at a young age and would freestyle on the streets.  He did state that he sold drugs and has been shot a few times growing up.  I personally, am familiar with the neighborhood he grew up in.  I went to catholic school around there and also lived in a "rough" neighborhood for a few years. 
 
He is one of the most financially successfully hip-hop artists and entrepreneurs in America.  Jay Z has sold over 50 million albums worldwide and received 17 Grammy awards for his musical work.  He is considered one of the most greatest rappers of all time.  This entrepreneur and investor co-owns the 40/40 Club and the co-creator of the clothing line, Rocawear. 
 
I'll admit, my list of song choices on my iphone don't have a lot of rap or hip hop but can appreciate all types of music, including his genre.  I give Jay Z a lot of credit for making something of himself but never forgetting where he came from. I love this quote by Jay Z
 
"We all have genius level talent, we just have to find out what you're genius at and apply ourselves in a way that supports that genius. First recognize that genius, then believe in it. You avoid all the outside noise. People put their fears and their insecurities on you so you cant reach your full potential. Don't let all the outside things get in the way" - Jay-Z
 
Jay Z has worked with a many artists and producers varying from LL Cool J, Mariah Carey, Justin Timberlake, Linkin Park, Kanye West, Timbaland, Eminem, DJ Quick, 9th Wonder, The Buchanans, Rick Rubin, R. Kelly, Pharrell, Alicia Keys, Rhianna and many others. 
 
Recently, Jay Z organized the "Budweiser Made in America" music festival in Philadelphia, PA.  It was a two day festival that featured a variety of artists from rock, pop, funk, soul, etc.  The concept was to bring music lovers together in one place and let them experience different types of music. . . together.  Director, Ron Howard filmed the documentary.
 
Jay Z is in inspiration to many people, young and old.  Something to be proud of.
 
Here are some songs from Jay Z.
 
Enjoy!
 
Holy Grail featuring Justin Timberlake
 
Run This Town featuring Rhianna and Kanye West
 
 
Empire State of Mind featuring Alicia Keys
 
Young Forever (Jay Z/Mr. Hudson)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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