Jay-Z, born Shawn Corey Carter on December 4, 1969, in Brooklyn, New York City, is an influential American rapper, songwriter, record producer, and entrepreneur. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest rappers of all time, known for his complex lyrics and storytelling prowess.
Musical Career: Jay-Z’s debut album, Reasonable Doubt (1996), received critical acclaim and established his presence in the hip-hop scene. He co-founded Roc-A-Fella Records, releasing several successful albums, including The Blueprint (2001) and The Black Album (2003). His collaborations with artists like Kanye West, Rihanna, and Beyoncé have further cemented his status in the music industry.
Business Ventures: Beyond music, Jay-Z has ventured into various businesses. He founded Rocawear, a clothing line, and the 40/40 Club, a chain of sports bars. In 2008, he established Roc Nation, an entertainment agency, and in 2015, acquired a stake in the music streaming service Tidal. As of 2025, he is considered the wealthiest musical artist globally, with an estimated net worth of $2.5 billion.
Recent Legal Developments: In February 2025, a defamation lawsuit was filed against Jay-Z by a woman who had previously accused him of sexual assault. The accuser stands by her claims despite the lawsuit, alleging attempts to intimidate her into recanting.