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Music Review: Jay-Z's latest album proves to be a blueprint of success
Marvin DeBose
Issue date: 9/24/09 Section: Entertainment
In the midst of a sudden rebirth of "Beatlemania" and a continuous Michael Jackson frenzy, another legendary artist returns to cement his legacy in the world of music.
On Tuesday, Sept. 8, hip-hop legend, mogul and entrepreneur, Shawn "Jay-Z" Carter released his long awaited finale to his "Blueprint" series, The Blueprint 3, under his new record label, Roc Nation.
The hype for "Blueprint 3" was partially due to the success of its predecessor, The Blueprint, which was released on Sept. 11, 2001.
The album was revolutionary because it was one of the first to implement the heavy usage of soul music samples in its songs. This album also helped to launch the careers of hip-hop producers Just Blaze and Kanye West.
Not to mention, it also featured Jay-Z's classic "diss" record, "Takeover," directed at Queensbridge MC, Nas.
Contextually, "Blueprint 3" is not simply a continuation of the series. It is rather a step toward the future of hip-hop with fresh concepts and unique subject matter.
This step toward the future is evident in the song, "Off That" featuring one of hip-hop's fastest rising stars, Drake. In "Off That," Jay-Z and Drake dismiss many fads and trends commonly associated with hip-hop culture such as oversized clothes, rims, and even the concept of people becoming rappers simply to chase fame.
This Timbaland-produced track is definitely a must-hear song with an infectious, up-tempo beat.
Jay-Z delivers with his witty lyrics, however, some fans may be disappointed that Drake's role is reduced to simply performing the chorus. However, the song is still great both conceptually and lyrically.
"Venus vs Mars" is another standout, Timbaland-produced track in which Jay-Z talks about the remarkable differences between himself and a love interest.
Jay-Z once again delivers with his clever wordplay with lines such as the ones from the third verse, stating, "I thought shorty was the truth/ found out she was a cheater/ we were supposed to takeover/ I caught her bumpin' "Ether"/ I thought shorty liked Mike/ found out she liked Prince/ I thought she was Adrien/ It's been rocky ever since." This story of conflicting love interest is sure to entertain many listeners.
On Tuesday, Sept. 8, hip-hop legend, mogul and entrepreneur, Shawn "Jay-Z" Carter released his long awaited finale to his "Blueprint" series, The Blueprint 3, under his new record label, Roc Nation.
The hype for "Blueprint 3" was partially due to the success of its predecessor, The Blueprint, which was released on Sept. 11, 2001.
The album was revolutionary because it was one of the first to implement the heavy usage of soul music samples in its songs. This album also helped to launch the careers of hip-hop producers Just Blaze and Kanye West.
Not to mention, it also featured Jay-Z's classic "diss" record, "Takeover," directed at Queensbridge MC, Nas.
Contextually, "Blueprint 3" is not simply a continuation of the series. It is rather a step toward the future of hip-hop with fresh concepts and unique subject matter.
This step toward the future is evident in the song, "Off That" featuring one of hip-hop's fastest rising stars, Drake. In "Off That," Jay-Z and Drake dismiss many fads and trends commonly associated with hip-hop culture such as oversized clothes, rims, and even the concept of people becoming rappers simply to chase fame.
This Timbaland-produced track is definitely a must-hear song with an infectious, up-tempo beat.
Jay-Z delivers with his witty lyrics, however, some fans may be disappointed that Drake's role is reduced to simply performing the chorus. However, the song is still great both conceptually and lyrically.
"Venus vs Mars" is another standout, Timbaland-produced track in which Jay-Z talks about the remarkable differences between himself and a love interest.
Jay-Z once again delivers with his clever wordplay with lines such as the ones from the third verse, stating, "I thought shorty was the truth/ found out she was a cheater/ we were supposed to takeover/ I caught her bumpin' "Ether"/ I thought shorty liked Mike/ found out she liked Prince/ I thought she was Adrien/ It's been rocky ever since." This story of conflicting love interest is sure to entertain many listeners.
Viewing Comments 1 - 1 of 1
Alerique Dariso
posted 9/27/09 @ 7:39 AM GMT
I believe that the Blueprint 3 was summed up greatly for fans who haven't heard the album yet. This album definitely stands out for its creativity, not to mention consistency for good music that Jay-z has always provided for his listeners. (Continued…)
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