In turn, he seemingly addressed all the things that made his career work-almost as a revue. In tow, the MC sought out key producers from his past, and a few wish-list studio mates to deliver his magnum opus. Stripped of rapping or singing guests, the album unflinchingly made Hova and legacy its focal point. The Black Album was blueprinted as the ideal farewell for Jay. In Jay’s case, however, this statement album not only amplified the attention to his lyrics (what other major album had its own mass-released acapella edition?) and music, it set the new standard for LP anticipation-and-delivery in the digital era. In both cases, the artists not only revoked their vows, their exit music lacked gravitas-making their returns a bit blushed. Lupe Fiasco Explains In Detail Why JAY-Z Is The Greatest MC Of All-Timeīy 2003, past Jay collaborators Master P and Too Short had pump-faked retirement. What has made The Black Album so exceptional was its detailed planning and clear execution. The Black Album, released 15 years ago today (November 14, 2003) was a truly “ grand closing” of the book in Shawn Carter’s illustrious 15-year Rap career, or so Heads seemingly believed at the time. before him, Jay finally had the critics, the charts, and the hearts of the masses- all at once.įollowing the groundswell of The Blueprint and the quick-strike sequels, Jay wanted a statement LP. Like Eminem, The Notorious B.I.G., and Run-D.M.C. While 50 Cent and OutKast had driven 2003 in a major way, Jay was in a class of his own. He had climbed the charts, repeatedly, and laced the walls of Roc-A-Fella Records with his own platinum and gold plaques in less than a decade. While fans forever debate the victor, the Marcy Projects native left verbal confrontation with Nas in the better position, in terms of mass-public perception after the MC battle of the 2000s. Swizz Beatz Explains Why The JAY-Z, Nas & DMX Collabo Has Not Come Out (Video)įifteen years ago, JAY-Z solely occupied the pole position in Hip-Hop. For Rap, it was Evil Knievel’s death-defying jump-and for then last time in their minds, the crowd roared. Whether he sincerely believed he was done making albums or not, he heightened the pressure on himself to an all-time high, and then delivered.

History shows that Shawn Corey Carter may have driven himself crazy, but he hit his mark. I’ll sit there and drive myself crazy ’til I find that right track.” “Anybody that knows me knows I’m dead serious. Like, in your mind, you’re thinking, I have to make the perfect album,” JAY-Z said before Fade To Black cameras during 2003, when the documentary filmed. “Any time you’re making an album, especially if this is your last album, every single track has to be a statement.

Jay z the black album cover