Jay-Z is a renowned rapper who grew to fame with successes in recording, businesses, producing and collaborating with top artists in the music industry. In a span of 22 years, Jay-Z has sold 40 million albums across the globe and ten Grammy Awards in his name. His marriage to pop superstar Beyonce Knowles is another welcome merit in his long list of credentials.
Shawn Corey Carter in real life, Jay-Z was born in December 4, 1969 and grew from a poor upbringing in Brooklyn, New York. Before his first ever album in 1996, Jay-Z was featured in works of many rap artists such as Jaz-O, Big Daddy Kane and Big L during the 1980s-90s. He is also associated with record labels Roc-A-Fella Records and Def Jam Records either as owner, part-owner or executive. He announced retirement from rapping in 2003 and returned to recording in 2006.
Jay-Z is also a famous entrepreneur with businesses outside the music industry. Among these are 40/40 Club, stakes at his designer leisure clothing Rocawear and shares in the basketball team of New Jersey Nets.