Iconic rapper Jay-Z did his part in putting Brooklyn on the map, and now the city is paying it back.
In celebration of the 50th Anniversary of Hip-Hop, the Central Library of the Brooklyn Public Library (BPL) has projected some of his most memorable lyrics on the library’s facade.
Earlier this week, a video surfaced on social media showing the lyrics scribed onto the building.
In the clip, shared by Jay-Z fan account Jay_Z_Daily, a car is zooming down Eastern Parkway, with the driver arriving upon a group of workers laying down the new display with Jay-Z’s “What More Can I Say” playing in the background.
Jay-Z’s lyrics all over Brooklyn Public Library pic.twitter.com/70ZA6OL7HR
— JAY-Z Daily (@JAY_Z_Daily) July 11, 2023
Various bars from songs in Hov’s catalog, including “Hovi Baby,” “Sweet,” “Encore,” and “Justify My Thug,” are featured in the exhibit, according to Complex.
Homage to Hip Hop
In June, the BPL kicked off “Night in the Library: The Philosophy of Hip-Hop,” a free event exploring the genre’s culture and legacy that has gone on to reach far beyond the streets of Brooklyn.
During the “all night” event, Jay-Z’s mother, Dr. Gloria Carter, was a guest speaker. Hip-Hop architect KRS-One, Grammy-nominated rapper Rapsody and Urban style innovator Dapper Dan also participated.
Attendees enjoyed film screenings, dance performances, rap-lyric readings, and the impressive moves of the National Double Dutch League.
While the placement of Jay-Z’s lyrics has not been confirmed as part of the library’s ongoing homage to Hip-Hop, it is an amazing way to pay tribute to the borough’s native son.
H to the izz-O, V to the izz-A
Born Shawn Carter, the rapper turned entertainment mogul began his musical career in the late 1980s. He released his debut album, Reasonable Doubt, in 1996. With the release of 12 more albums, Jay-Z has won 24 Grammys. Tying with former label mate Kayne West for the most awarded to any rapper.
Jay was a 2021 inductee into the Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame.
The 53-year-old has turned his success as an artist into an empire. In 2008 he launched the record label and management company, Roc Nation, followed by his event management company Live Nation. His portfolio also includes the streaming platform Tidal, his ventures into fashion with Rocawear, and much more.
His numerous income streams lead him to amass a net worth of $2.5 billion, earning him the title of the richest “rapper in the world.”
