Alright folks, I just sat down to do my homework and I popped in a little Jay-Z “The Blueprint 3.” BAD IDEA. There is no way I can focus with all the horns a’blarin and Jay-Z repeating the same phrase over and over and over. So while I am taking a break from the noise, let’s look back at the history of this hip hop idol. Shawn Corey Carter (Jay-Z) has been in the spotlight since the late 1990’s when he released his first album, “Reasonable Doubt” in 1996. He has brought us poppin’, lockin’ hits like “99 Problems” and lent his voice to his wife, Beyonce’s hit singles, “Upgrade U”, and “Déjà Vu.” And now, he gets to add a few more to that list.

Blueprint 3 Cover

After I listened to “The Blueprint 3” a couple of times, my favorite song was definitely “Empire State of Mind” featuring Alicia Keys. Not only does this song have a catchy chorus but the lyrics, rhythms, and sounds create a mental picture of New York in your head. When I listen to this song, as weird as this sounds, I imagine myself flying (in a plane or with my imaginary wings) over New York City and just experiencing the excitement and beauty of such a fabulous city. Great, great song. Unfortunately, that was really the only song I liked. The rest of the tracks either gave me headaches or caused me to want to skip them within the first minute. I am not saying that Jay-Z is untalented; I just think his music is not really for me. Still, I can see how someone could like his work. It has everything a good hip hop/rap album should have. I guess I just haven’t come in touch with my rapper side yet. So if you are a Jay-Z, Notorious B.I.G. or Nas fan, I thoroughly encourage you to check out Jay-Z’s “The Blueprint 3.”