With his 'Magna Carta Holy Grail' tour going on sale today, CollegeTimes take a look at some of the best songs from Mr. Carter.
10. Ain't No Love (Blueprint, 2001)
Soulful and commercial, you've probably heard this Hova classic in someway shape or form over the years. With help from Kanye, this track was produced to a tee and boasts a different beat to the usual hip-hop drum and bass.
9. IZZO (Blueprint, 2001)
Continuing with the commercial success that was The Blueprint, 'IZZO (H.O.V.A)' is another feel good track from an album jam packed with hits. Also a live favourite.
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8. Dead Presidents II (Reasonable Doubt, 1996)
From his debut album in 1996, 'Dead Presidents II' uses a sample from Nas's 'The World Is Your's in the chorus and was a success in the charts, too. Arguably put Hova on the map.
7. Niggas In Paris (Watch The Throne, 2011)
A collaborative effort with long time associate Kanye West, Watch The Throne may be one of the most successful hip-hop albums to date. Upbeat, bass heavy and aggressive lyrics, 'Niggas In Paris' boasts everything that made Jay-Z and Kanye what they are today.
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6. Renegade (Blueprint, 2001)
Featuring Eminem, 'Renegade' is another track off The Blueprint. Dealing with his fatherless bringing up, Carter raps about his financial difficulties and childhood with his mother. The track was originally written and produced by Eminem.
5. Run This Town (The Blueprint 3, 2009)
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Featuring and co-written by Kanye West and Rihanna, 'Run This Town' is a track of The Blueprint 3 boasting the status of the Roc Nation and their dominance of the industry. Check out this live version:
4. Moment of Clarity (The Black Album, 2003)
Ten years old now, The Black Album is the most commercial successful solo album that Jay-Z has released. 'Moment of Clarity' reflects on Carter's violent and troubled youth, giving thanks to how far he's come.
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3. Hard Knock Life( Vol 2...Hard Knock Life, 1998)
The follow up to his debut album created a lot of buzz and this came in the form of this hip-hop classic. Used in many films and shows, 'Hard Knock Life' is one of the most recognizable beats in hip-hop history.
2. Dirt Off Your Shoulders (The Black Album, 2003)
I think this video says all you need to know about Hova's second best track. Unique, iconic and unmistakable. Tune
1. 99Problems (The Black Album, 2003)
He doesn't say bitch anymore, but there once was a time when Shawn Carter had 99 problems and that wasn't one of them. Evidently, as he went on to marry ass mogul Beyonce.
