Roc-A-Fella Records
Encyclopedia
Roc-A-Fella Records is a record label
founded by Shawn "Jay-Z" Carter
, Damon "Dame" Dash
, and Kareem "Biggs" Burke. Today it operates as a subsidiary of Universal Music Group
, and is distributed by Island Def Jam Motown Music Group
.
, using money from the music videos provided by Payday Records due to their singles only deal. Though Reasonable Doubt didn't immediately attain commercial success, it spawned several hits, a close relationship with The Notorious B.I.G.
and procured him a reputation in the hip-hop community. Starting out as Roc-A-Fella's only artist, Jay-Z was supported by Biggie producer DJ Clark Kent and DJ Ski
, who was then working with Camp Lo
; affiliated rappers included duo Da Ranjahz, Sauce Money
, Jaz-O
, and a young Memphis Bleek
, though only Bleek would eventually sign with the label. According to Dame, the label had intended on releasing Nas' group The Firm, but the deal fell through:
The snub, and a sample clearance issue with the Nas-sampling Reasonable Doubt song "Dead Presidents," were elements that contributed to tension between Jay-Z and Nas. As such, the Roc's only release in 1997 was Carter's second album, In My Lifetime, Vol. 1
, but the label and its figurehead artist saw increasing popularity, mainly due to a high-profile appearance by Jay on B.I.G.'s posthumous Life After Death, complete with Roc-A-Fella Records and Dame Dash references. While Memphis Bleek signed with the Roc, Sauce Money chose to pursue a deal with Priority Records, and Jaz refrained from signing anywhere and provided production for only one song on Vol. 1, "Rap Game/Crack Game." In 1998, Roc-A-Fella Records released the movie Streets is Watching
and the accompanying soundtrack
; the film compiles various Jay-Z videos into a continuous story, and the album introduced more affiliated acts, including Ranjahz member Wais, then-signed singer Christión, future Roc-A-Fella Records signees M.O.P.
, N.O.R.E.
and DJ Clue
, as well as producer Irv Gotti and the short-lived group, Murder Inc. (namesake of Irv's record label, Murder Inc. Records.
Jay's 1998 album, Vol. 2... Hard Knock Life
, saw him largely depart from his previous entourage and venture forth with producers Swizz Beatz
, Timbaland
, The 45 King and Jermaine Dupri
. Vol. 2 spawned his first major hit, "Hard Knock Life", and became the label's first platinum release; it was the last Roc-A-Fella Records release to see appearances by Jaz-O or Sauce Money, and the first to feature new Roc artists Beanie Sigel
and Amil
. DJ Clue released the first of his collaboration-album-style series in The Professional
, which saw the first Roc-A-Fella Records appearance of Cam'ron
; meanwhile, DJ Ski had, at the time, formed the production company Roc-A-Blok, affiliated with Sporty Thievz
, although the company folded after Ski moved out of New York to take a break from music.
Though Da Ranjahz put in appearances on Memphis Bleek's first album, Coming of Age, in 1999, they soon parted ways with Roc-A-Fella Records. Jay-Z's 1999 album Vol. 3...Life and Times of S. Carter continued Jay's new affiliations with then-popular producers; in 2000, the label saw a redefinition in both sound and roster. Jay-Z put out The Dynasty: Roc La Familia
as a solo album. Originally intended to be a collaboration project, it nonetheless featured heavy appearances by Beanie Sigel, Amil and Memphis Bleek, along with a Philly rapper Freeway
guest spot that led to his being signed to Roc-A-Fella Records. Rather than return to Timbaland or Swizz Beatz for production, Jay selected beats from a new crop of producers: The Neptunes
, Kanye West
, Just Blaze
, Bink! and Rick Rock
. Except for Rock, each beatsmith would go on to become consistently involved in future Roc-A-Fella Records projects.
had reached #5 on the Billboard charts in 2000, and DJ Clue released The Professional 2
in 2000. Despite the lackluster sales of Amil and Bleek's albums, Jay-Z and Dame Dash began signing up new talent, including Cam'ron, Freeway, and several young Philly rappers that were later compiled into the Freeway/Sigel-led group, State Property
. During this time, Jay-Z and Beanie Sigel were embroiled in a feud with Ruff Ryders Entertainment artists Jadakiss
and DMX
. Disses back and forth between Jay-Z and Jadakiss implied a conflict between Jay and former groupmate DMX, led to a full-on war of words between Sigel and Kiss, and eventually culminated in a diss by Beanie Sigel over Jada's hit "Put Your Hands Up," after which the rivalry faded.
Cam'ron put out his Roc-A-Fella Records debut Come Home With Me
in 2002 to platinum sales, and shortly signed his group The Diplomats
to Roc-A-Fella Records, as well. From 2002 to 2003, Dame Dash signed several artists in response to Jay-Z's talk of retirement after his 2002 album The Blueprint2: The Gift & The Curse
. He signed M.O.P.
and Ol' Dirty Bastard
, gave Grafh
a joint-venture deal, and attempted to sign Twista
and Joe Budden
. Roc-A-Fella Records experienced its height in product releases and overall popularity as a brand name during this period, seeing the release of State Property's Chain Gang albums, Juelz Santana
's From Me to U
, Freeway's debut Philadelphia Freeway
, The Diplomats' group debut album Diplomatic Immunity
, Memphis Bleek's M.A.D.E.
, and Jay-Z's alleged final album, The Black Album
.
Rumors of friction and contract disputes between Shawn Carter and Damon Dash were to soon become apparent; though denied by both factions at the time, problems involving Dame's media attention and Jay's alleged inaccessibility had been brewing since the video shoot for "Big Pimpin'".
After Jay-Z's supposed last hurrah, it was revealed that he had accepted a position as CEO and President of Def Jam Recordings
, who also purchased Roc-A-Fella Records. Dash, poised to take greater control in the company, began heavily promoting artists Cam'ron, The Diplomats, State Property, Kanye West and Twista. In 2004, Kanye West's album, The College Dropout
, became a huge commercial and critical success, selling multi-platinum, and Foxy Brown was signed and began work on her album, Black Rose. The infamous 'split' occurred when it was revealed that Carter, Dash and Burke had sold their 50% interest in Roc-A-Fella Records to Def Jam Recordings, making the label full owners. As President of Def Jam Recordings, Carter retained control of Roc-A-Fella and the intellectual property rights to the songs, depriving his family members from the fruits of their labors.
So Dash and Burke set up their own fledgling record label, christened as Dame Dash Music Group, each artist was offered their choice of labels. Most of the artists signed to Roc-A-Fella Records at this time fled from the exploitation, as Shawn Carter himself was more for Def Jam than Roc-A-Fella. The Diplomats were the first to make the move to Dame Dash Music Group, and began a public campaign against Jay-Z, dissing him in songs and interviews, backed heavily by Dame Dash; Cam'ron was especially vocal, claiming Jay-Z blocked him from an executive position Dame Dash had offered him at Roc-A-Fella Records.
Beanie Sigel, then doing a year's incarceration on an attempted murder charge, put out his album The B.Coming on Dash's label; this was accompanied by accusations from Dame that of all the members of State Property, only Oschino had gone to visit Sigel in prison. Though Beanie had initially chosen Dame Dash Music Group, the rest of the group refused, preferring to remain on Roc-A-Fella Records; in response, Beanie Sigel effectively put the group on hold, claiming disappointment in his groupmates. M.O.P. and Grafh also left Roc-A-Fella Records for Dame Dash Music Group, though both acts parted ways with Dash soon thereafter. Due to the 2004 death of Ol' Dirty Bastard, Dash also brought with him masters of the rapper's project and promises to release the album, A Son Unique
, though this never occurred.
Memphis Bleek and Kanye West released 534
and Late Registration
, respectively, in 2005, along with the Young Gunz
' sophomore effort and Teairra Mari
's debut, though only Kanye West's project saw significant reviews or sales. It was stated by Memphis Bleek that Cory Gunz
had signed, but nothing materialized. By the end of the year, Dash had split his label from Def Jam Recordings and Jay-Z's role overseeing his project, after asking for more money and a bigger role in the company. Dame Dash Music Group left Def Jam Recordings and was subsequently dissolved.
, a Latino-geared label under Roc-A-Fella Records that followed the trend of Reggaeton
. Hector "El Father" and N.O.R.E.
both put out albums, and the label was home to New York rapper Tru Life, but has since folded. Jay-Z made his return that year with Kingdom Come
, to mixed reviews. He stepped down from his Def Jam Recordings position and put out a second album in 2007, American Gangster
, to more positive reviews and sales, along with Kanye West's Graduation
, Beanie Sigel's The Solution, and Freeway's Free at Last
; Kanye West's album sold multi-platinum to rave reviews. Freeway's project received critical acclaim but not major sales, and contained comments aimed at Kanye West and Just Blaze for not supplying production. He later amended his comments, stating he desired to work with Just Blaze but the producer hasn't reached out. This may have been due to Just Blaze's work on American Gangster and complications regarding his Atlantic Records
-distributed label, Fort Knocks Entertainment
, and his artist Saigon
.
The signing of Ruff Ryders Entertainment artist Jadakiss, former rival to both Jay-Z and Beanie Sigel, also came in 2007, as did Uncle Murda
. Foxy Brown was dropped from the label after two years, in light of a jail sentence. Though Young Chris and Peedi Crakk continued to appear on projects, neither seemed any closer to a solo projects, and in 2008 Peedi Crakk announced that the entire State Property group had been dropped from the label. This was countered by Beanie Sigel's manager, who confirmed that Beanie Sigel and Freeway were still part of Roc-A-Fella Records. Young Chris also apparently signed as a solo artist. 2008 saw only the release of Kanye West's 808's & Heartbreak, garnering decent sales but receiving mixed reviews from fans. It also brought repeated disses in songs and interviews from Peedi Crakk towards Jay-Z, claiming the rapper/exec held up his project on purpose, though he claims to have moved on. During that year, Jay-Z had inked a $150 million dollar deal with Live Nation
that included concerts, endorsements and recordings, and included a platform for him to launch his Roc Nation
label. Uncle Murda left the label after a year and a half with no release, citing lack of executive interest after Jay-Z's exit from parent label Def Jam Recordings.
In March 2009, Freeway procured his release from Def Jam Recordings, claiming a need to explore his options; shortly, he announced his signing to Cash Money Records
, while stating he would always respect Roc-A-Fella Records. Longtime signee Memphis Bleek also reported his departure from Def Jam Recordings, deciding not to travel to Roc Nation in favor of starting his own record label, but he is still very closely associated with Roc-A-Fella Records. Additionally, rapper Tru Life has been referred to as a "one time [or past] affiliate" of Roc-A-Fella Records upon his turning himself in to authorities for his connection to a retaliatory stabbing. On May 21, 2009, Jay-Z had bought back his contract from Def Jam Recordings for an unprecedented $5,000,000 and started his deal with Live Nation.
By the time Jadakiss released his album, The Last Kiss, there was no buzz surrounding the album. He moved to Roc-A-Fella Records for the chance to work with their roster of talent to boost his music. However, once he began making music, they left. Later, it was revealed that Jadakiss had left Roc-A-Fella Records to reunite with the Ruff Ryders Entertainment label. On May 3, 2010, Damon Dash relaunched Roc-A-Fella Records after nearly a year of inactivity.
. The movie, while not the first for Dame Dash, would be the start of ROC Films/Roc-A-Fella Films. The film studio would go on to release Paid In Full
the same year and follow up in 2003 with Paper Soldiers
and the hip-hop satire Death of a Dynasty
. In 2005 the sequel to the studios debut release would hit theatres State Property 2
, featuring rap stars such as Beanie Sigel and Damon Dash, who also produced and co-created the story. Cameo roles included musicians Kanye West, N.O.R.E and Mariah Carey, and Light Heavyweight champion boxers Bernard Hopkins and Winky Wright. The list of films include:
Record label
In the music industry, a record label is a brand and a trademark associated with the marketing of music recordings and music videos. Most commonly, a record label is the company that manages such brands and trademarks, coordinates the production, manufacture, distribution, marketing and promotion,...
founded by Shawn "Jay-Z" Carter
Jay-Z
Shawn Corey Carter , better known by his stage name Jay-Z, is an American rapper, record producer, entrepreneur, and occasional actor. He is one of the most financially successful hip hop artists and entrepreneurs in America, having a net worth of over $450 million as of 2010...
, Damon "Dame" Dash
Damon Dash
__NOINDEX__...
, and Kareem "Biggs" Burke. Today it operates as a subsidiary of Universal Music Group
Universal Music Group
Universal Music Group is an American music group, the largest of the "big four" record companies by its commanding market share and its multitude of global operations...
, and is distributed by Island Def Jam Motown Music Group
The Island Def Jam Music Group
The Island Def Jam Motown Music Group, formerly The Island Def Jam Music Group, is an umbrella label formed in 1999 when Universal Music Group merged two of its daughter companies, Island Records and Def Jam Recordings, to create a label group. In 2011, Motown Records was split from the Universal...
.
Formation and Early Years
The foundation of the label occurred in 1996, beginning as an independent outlet for rapper Jay-Z's first album. After being turned down by several major labels, Carter, Dash and Burke started their own label through Priority RecordsPriority Records
Priority Records is an American record label, owned and operated by EMI, which has made a name for itself dealing primarily in hip hop, pop and world...
, using money from the music videos provided by Payday Records due to their singles only deal. Though Reasonable Doubt didn't immediately attain commercial success, it spawned several hits, a close relationship with The Notorious B.I.G.
The Notorious B.I.G.
Christopher George Latore Wallace , best known as The Notorious B.I.G., was an American rapper. He was also known as Biggie Smalls , Big Poppa, and The Black Frank White .Wallace was raised in the Brooklyn borough...
and procured him a reputation in the hip-hop community. Starting out as Roc-A-Fella's only artist, Jay-Z was supported by Biggie producer DJ Clark Kent and DJ Ski
Ski (producer)
David Willis, otherwise known as DJ Ski and Ski Beatz, is an American record producer mainly working in hip hop.-Biography:Discovered by DJ Clark Kent, Ski was originally known as "MC Will-Ski". In the 1990s, he was a member of the group Original Flavor, the first group managed by future recording...
, who was then working with Camp Lo
Camp Lo
Camp Lo is an American hip hop duo, formed in 1995, which hails from The Bronx, New York. The duo consists of rappers Sonny Cheeba and Geechi Suede , both of Muslim upbringing.-Career:...
; affiliated rappers included duo Da Ranjahz, Sauce Money
Sauce Money
Sauce Money is a rapper who worked with Jay-Z in his early career and was featured on Big Daddy Kane's album Daddy's Home on the track "Show N' Prove" alongside Scoob Lover, Shyheim, Jay-Z, and Ol' Dirty Bastard...
, Jaz-O
Jaz-O
Jonathan Burks better known by his stage name Jaz-O, is an American rapper and record producer active in the late 1980s through the 1990s, best known for being the mentor of Jay-Z. Jaz is also known as the Originator and had a song called "The Originators" that featured a young Jay-Z in 1990...
, and a young Memphis Bleek
Memphis Bleek
Malik Thuston Patrick Cox , better known by his rap persona of Memphis Bleek or "Bleek", is a New York rapper mainly known for his tenure with Roc-a-Fella Records and CEO of his own label Get Low Records...
, though only Bleek would eventually sign with the label. According to Dame, the label had intended on releasing Nas' group The Firm, but the deal fell through:
The snub, and a sample clearance issue with the Nas-sampling Reasonable Doubt song "Dead Presidents," were elements that contributed to tension between Jay-Z and Nas. As such, the Roc's only release in 1997 was Carter's second album, In My Lifetime, Vol. 1
In My Lifetime, Vol. 1
In My Lifetime, Vol. 1 is the second studio album by American rapper Jay-Z, released November 4, 1997 on Roc-A-Fella Records. Despite mixed criticism towards its more mainstream-oriented sound and lyrical substance, the album debuted at number 3 on the U.S...
, but the label and its figurehead artist saw increasing popularity, mainly due to a high-profile appearance by Jay on B.I.G.'s posthumous Life After Death, complete with Roc-A-Fella Records and Dame Dash references. While Memphis Bleek signed with the Roc, Sauce Money chose to pursue a deal with Priority Records, and Jaz refrained from signing anywhere and provided production for only one song on Vol. 1, "Rap Game/Crack Game." In 1998, Roc-A-Fella Records released the movie Streets is Watching
Streets Is Watching (film)
Streets Is Watching is a musical film in which Jay-Z compiles many of his unreleased music videos into a continuous film. The film takes place in Jay-Z's old neighborhood in Brooklyn, New York. The film uses music from Jay-Z's albums Streets Is Watching, Reasonable Doubt, and In My Lifetime, Vol. 1...
and the accompanying soundtrack
Streets Is Watching (soundtrack)
Streets Is Watching is the soundtrack for the film by the same name. It was released in 1998 by Jay-Z's Roc-A-Fella Records and it serves as a promotion of the up and coming artists on his label. The album fared well commercially reaching #3 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart and having two...
; the film compiles various Jay-Z videos into a continuous story, and the album introduced more affiliated acts, including Ranjahz member Wais, then-signed singer Christión, future Roc-A-Fella Records signees M.O.P.
M.O.P.
M.O.P., short for Mash Out Posse, is an American hip hop duo. The duo, composed of Billy Danze and Lil' Fame, is known for the aggressive delivery typically employed by both emcees. Although they maintain a strong underground following, they are mainly known for the song "Ante Up," released on...
, N.O.R.E.
N.O.R.E.
Victor Santiago, Jr., best known by his stage name N.O.R.E. or Noreaga , is an American rapper of Puerto Rican descent...
and DJ Clue
DJ Clue
Ernesto Shaw better known as DJ Clue?, is a mixtape DJ.-Biography:For more than 10 years, DJ Clue has proven that he is more than just a beat-thumper. His accomplishments show how a turntable genius precisely puts together different songs to make a concoction of beats and melodies that rule the...
, as well as producer Irv Gotti and the short-lived group, Murder Inc. (namesake of Irv's record label, Murder Inc. Records.
Jay's 1998 album, Vol. 2... Hard Knock Life
Vol. 2... Hard Knock Life
Vol. 2... Hard Knock Life is the third studio album by American rapper Jay-Z, released on September 29, 1998, on Roc-A-Fella Records in the United States. The album propelled Jay-Z into superstar status and cemented him as a household name in the post Biggie/Tupac era of hip hop. This album also...
, saw him largely depart from his previous entourage and venture forth with producers Swizz Beatz
Swizz Beatz
Kasseem Dean , better known by his stage name, Swizz Beatz, is an American record producer, DJ, rapper and painter. At the age of 17, he gained attention in the hip-hop world through his friendship with rapper DMX. Grady Spivey and rapper Cassidy helped launch his label Full Surface Records...
, Timbaland
Timbaland
Timothy Zachery Mosley , better known by his stage name Timbaland, is an American record producer, songwriter and rapper....
, The 45 King and Jermaine Dupri
Jermaine Dupri
Jermaine Dupri Mauldin , known as Jermaine Dupri or JD, is an American record producer, songwriter and rapper.- Early life and career :...
. Vol. 2 spawned his first major hit, "Hard Knock Life", and became the label's first platinum release; it was the last Roc-A-Fella Records release to see appearances by Jaz-O or Sauce Money, and the first to feature new Roc artists Beanie Sigel
Beanie Sigel
Dwight Grant , also known as Beanie Sigel, is a American rapper from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania,most recently he was in talks with 50 Cent to sign with G-Unit Records and is a former member/artist of Dame Dash Music Group and Roc-A-Fella Records where he had formed a close association with rappers...
and Amil
Amil
Amil Whitehead more commonly known by her stage name Amil, is an American female rapper, singer, and songwriter from New York City. She was prominent in the late 1990s as a Jay-Z protégé, most notably on the single "Can I Get A..." from the Rush Hour soundtrack.-Early life:Amil was born September...
. DJ Clue released the first of his collaboration-album-style series in The Professional
The Professional (album)
The Professional is DJ Clue?'s debut studio album. It features appearances from the likes of DMX, M.O.P, Jay Z and more.- Track listing :# "Intro"# "Ruff Ryders' Anthem"...
, which saw the first Roc-A-Fella Records appearance of Cam'ron
Cam'ron
Cameron Giles , better known by his stage name Cam'ron or "Killa Cam", is a Grammy-nominated American actor. He is the founder of the hip-hop group The Diplomats , and also of The U.N. group....
; meanwhile, DJ Ski had, at the time, formed the production company Roc-A-Blok, affiliated with Sporty Thievz
Sporty Thievz
Sporty Thievz was a Yonkers, New York hip-hop group, originally a trio, composed of King Kirk , Big Dubez and Marlon Bryant Brando...
, although the company folded after Ski moved out of New York to take a break from music.
Though Da Ranjahz put in appearances on Memphis Bleek's first album, Coming of Age, in 1999, they soon parted ways with Roc-A-Fella Records. Jay-Z's 1999 album Vol. 3...Life and Times of S. Carter continued Jay's new affiliations with then-popular producers; in 2000, the label saw a redefinition in both sound and roster. Jay-Z put out The Dynasty: Roc La Familia
The Dynasty: Roc La Familia
Sample credits*"Intro contains a sample of "She Said Loves Me" by Kleeer*"I Just Wanna Love U " contains elements and samples of "Give it To Me Baby" performed by Rick James, and "The World is Filled" by the Notorious B.I.G....
as a solo album. Originally intended to be a collaboration project, it nonetheless featured heavy appearances by Beanie Sigel, Amil and Memphis Bleek, along with a Philly rapper Freeway
Freeway (rapper)
Leslie Edward Pridgen , better known by his stage name Freeway, is an American rapper. Best known for his tenure on Roc-A-Fella Records and his affiliation with Jay-Z and Beanie Sigel, he is recognized by his high-pitched delivery and for the long beard he keeps due to his Muslim faith...
guest spot that led to his being signed to Roc-A-Fella Records. Rather than return to Timbaland or Swizz Beatz for production, Jay selected beats from a new crop of producers: The Neptunes
The Neptunes
The Neptunes are a record production duo consisting of Pharrell Williams and Chad Hugo, who are credited with contributing the sound for many successful hip hop, R&B and pop artists in the late-1990s and 2000s...
, Kanye West
Kanye West
Kanye Omari West is an American rapper, singer, and record producer. West first rose to fame as a producer for Roc-A-Fella Records, where he eventually achieved recognition for his work on Jay-Z's album The Blueprint, as well as hit singles for musical artists including Alicia Keys, Ludacris, and...
, Just Blaze
Just Blaze
Justin Smith, better known as Just Blaze, is an American hip hop music producer from Paterson, New Jersey. Blaze is also the CEO of Fort Knocks Entertainment. He is most well known for producing Jay-Z songs on the albums The Blueprint, The Blueprint 2, and The Black Album. He is also known for...
, Bink! and Rick Rock
Rick Rock
Rick Rock is a hip-hop music producer from the Bay Area.-Albums with Rick Rock production:*1996: All Eyez on Me by 2Pac*1996: Tha Hall of Game by E-40*1996: Seasoned Veteran by Richie Rich...
. Except for Rock, each beatsmith would go on to become consistently involved in future Roc-A-Fella Records projects.
Prominence and Split
The new millennium saw Roc-A-Fella Records begin to expand beyond one figurehead artist. While Jay-Z remained the label's prominent image—with the acclaimed release of The Blueprint and the closing of his trial for the 1999 stabbing of producer "Un" Rivera—other Roc artists began to gain popularity and acceptance. Beanie Sigel's The TruthThe Truth (Beanie Sigel album)
The Truth is the debut album by rapper Beanie Sigel. It was released on February 29, 2000 to positive critical and commercial success. It reached Number 5 on The Billboard 200 and had three charting remotely popular singles: "Anything", "Remember Them Days" and "The Truth," which samples Chicago by...
had reached #5 on the Billboard charts in 2000, and DJ Clue released The Professional 2
The Professional 2
The Professional 2 is the second studio album released and produced by DJ Clue?. This CD contains 23 songs, but most of them are short. The albums sold 882,000 copies in the US according to Nielsen SoundScan and was certified Gold on March 28, 2001....
in 2000. Despite the lackluster sales of Amil and Bleek's albums, Jay-Z and Dame Dash began signing up new talent, including Cam'ron, Freeway, and several young Philly rappers that were later compiled into the Freeway/Sigel-led group, State Property
State Property (Group)
State Property is a rap group from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA led by rapper Beanie Sigel with Philly rappers Freeway, Peedi Peedi, Oschino, and Omillio Sparks, and the Young Gunz and female R&B singer Casha...
. During this time, Jay-Z and Beanie Sigel were embroiled in a feud with Ruff Ryders Entertainment artists Jadakiss
Jadakiss
Jason Phillips , better known as Jadakiss, is an American rapper. He is a member of the group The LOX. Jadakiss is one of the three owners of the imprint known as D-Block. In early 2007, Jadakiss signed to Roc-a-Fella Records / Def Jam Records.-Early life:By the age of 16, Jadakiss was a freestyle...
and DMX
DMX (rapper)
Earl Simmons , better known by his stage name DMX, is a multiplatinum American rapper and actor who rose to fame in the late 1990s. His stage name pays tribute to the Oberheim DMX drum machine, an instrument he used when he made his own rap beats in the 80's...
. Disses back and forth between Jay-Z and Jadakiss implied a conflict between Jay and former groupmate DMX, led to a full-on war of words between Sigel and Kiss, and eventually culminated in a diss by Beanie Sigel over Jada's hit "Put Your Hands Up," after which the rivalry faded.
Cam'ron put out his Roc-A-Fella Records debut Come Home With Me
Come Home with Me
Come Home with Me is the third studio album by Harlem rapper Cam'ron, it is also his debut on Roc-A-Fella Records. It served as an introduction of the Cam'ron-fronted rap group, The Diplomats, to the general public. There are featured guest appearances from The Diplomats, DJ Kay Slay, Daz...
in 2002 to platinum sales, and shortly signed his group The Diplomats
The Diplomats
The Diplomats, also popularly known as Dipset, are a Harlem-based hip hop group founded by Cam'ron and Jim Jones in 1997. The original members of the group were Cam'ron, Freekey Zekey, and Jim Jones ; who all grew up together in Harlem...
to Roc-A-Fella Records, as well. From 2002 to 2003, Dame Dash signed several artists in response to Jay-Z's talk of retirement after his 2002 album The Blueprint2: The Gift & The Curse
The Blueprint 2: The Gift & the Curse
-See also:*List of number-one albums of 2002 *List of number-one R&B albums of 2002 - External links :* at Discogs...
. He signed M.O.P.
M.O.P.
M.O.P., short for Mash Out Posse, is an American hip hop duo. The duo, composed of Billy Danze and Lil' Fame, is known for the aggressive delivery typically employed by both emcees. Although they maintain a strong underground following, they are mainly known for the song "Ante Up," released on...
and Ol' Dirty Bastard
Ol' Dirty Bastard
Russell Tyrone Jones was an American rapper and occasional producer, who went by the stage name Ol' Dirty Bastard or simply ODB...
, gave Grafh
Grafh
Grafh, born Philip Bernard, hails from Jamaica, Queens, New York. He made a name for himself on the mixtape circuit, where he garnered early support from influential mix-show DJ’s in New York. His skill, charisma, honesty, and determination were so obvious that he generated a buzz nationwide and...
a joint-venture deal, and attempted to sign Twista
Twista
Carl Terrell Mitchell , better known by his stage name Twista, is an American rapper. He is known for once holding the title of fastest rapper in the world according to Guinness World Records in 1992, being able to pronounce 598 syllables in 55 seconds...
and Joe Budden
Joe Budden
-Early life:Budden was born in Spanish Harlem, but lived in Queens until he was 12 and from there moved to Jersey City, New Jersey. He is one of five boys...
. Roc-A-Fella Records experienced its height in product releases and overall popularity as a brand name during this period, seeing the release of State Property's Chain Gang albums, Juelz Santana
Juelz Santana
LaRon Louis James , better known by his stage name Juelz Santana, is an American rapper, producer, and actor. He appeared on Cam'ron's 2002 singles, "Oh Boy" and "Hey Ma"...
's From Me to U
From Me To U
From Me to U is the debut album by the American Hip-Hop rapper Juelz Santana, released on August 19, 2003. The album was seen as the introspective introduction of the rapper to mainstream entertainment...
, Freeway's debut Philadelphia Freeway
Philadelphia Freeway
Philadelphia Freeway was the debut album from Philadelphia rapper Freeway. It was released under Roc-A-Fella Records and Def Jam Recordings. The most successful single was "What We Do" which featured Jay-Z and Beanie Sigel. Another single that was released was "Flipside" which featured Peedi Crakk...
, The Diplomats' group debut album Diplomatic Immunity
Diplomatic Immunity (album)
Diplomatic Immunity is the debut album by The Diplomats, released on March 25, 2003. After the release of group leader Cam'ron's third album, Come Home With Me, the quartet teamed up to release their first collaborative effort...
, Memphis Bleek's M.A.D.E.
M.A.D.E.
M.A.D.E. is the third studio album by rapper Memphis Bleek. It was released on December 16, 2003 and at best it reached #35. The album sold 150,000 copies in its first week, which was a record for Memphis Bleek....
, and Jay-Z's alleged final album, The Black Album
The Black Album (Jay-Z album)
The Black Album is the eighth studio album by American rapper Jay-Z, released November 14, 2003, on Roc-A-Fella Records. It was promoted as his final studio album, which serves as a recurring theme, although Jay-Z returned to solo recording with Kingdom Come in 2006.The album debuted at number one...
.
Rumors of friction and contract disputes between Shawn Carter and Damon Dash were to soon become apparent; though denied by both factions at the time, problems involving Dame's media attention and Jay's alleged inaccessibility had been brewing since the video shoot for "Big Pimpin'".
After Jay-Z's supposed last hurrah, it was revealed that he had accepted a position as CEO and President of Def Jam Recordings
Def Jam Recordings
Def Jam Recordings is an American record label, focused primarily on hip hop and urban music, owned by Universal Music Group, and operates as a part of The Island Def Jam Motown Music Group...
, who also purchased Roc-A-Fella Records. Dash, poised to take greater control in the company, began heavily promoting artists Cam'ron, The Diplomats, State Property, Kanye West and Twista. In 2004, Kanye West's album, The College Dropout
The College Dropout
The College Dropout is the debut album by American hip hop artist Kanye West, released February 10, 2004, on Roc-A-Fella Records. It was recorded over a period of four years, beginning in 1999. Prior to the album's release, West had worked on rapper Jay-Z's The Blueprint , which showcased his...
, became a huge commercial and critical success, selling multi-platinum, and Foxy Brown was signed and began work on her album, Black Rose. The infamous 'split' occurred when it was revealed that Carter, Dash and Burke had sold their 50% interest in Roc-A-Fella Records to Def Jam Recordings, making the label full owners. As President of Def Jam Recordings, Carter retained control of Roc-A-Fella and the intellectual property rights to the songs, depriving his family members from the fruits of their labors.
So Dash and Burke set up their own fledgling record label, christened as Dame Dash Music Group, each artist was offered their choice of labels. Most of the artists signed to Roc-A-Fella Records at this time fled from the exploitation, as Shawn Carter himself was more for Def Jam than Roc-A-Fella. The Diplomats were the first to make the move to Dame Dash Music Group, and began a public campaign against Jay-Z, dissing him in songs and interviews, backed heavily by Dame Dash; Cam'ron was especially vocal, claiming Jay-Z blocked him from an executive position Dame Dash had offered him at Roc-A-Fella Records.
Beanie Sigel, then doing a year's incarceration on an attempted murder charge, put out his album The B.Coming on Dash's label; this was accompanied by accusations from Dame that of all the members of State Property, only Oschino had gone to visit Sigel in prison. Though Beanie had initially chosen Dame Dash Music Group, the rest of the group refused, preferring to remain on Roc-A-Fella Records; in response, Beanie Sigel effectively put the group on hold, claiming disappointment in his groupmates. M.O.P. and Grafh also left Roc-A-Fella Records for Dame Dash Music Group, though both acts parted ways with Dash soon thereafter. Due to the 2004 death of Ol' Dirty Bastard, Dash also brought with him masters of the rapper's project and promises to release the album, A Son Unique
A Son Unique
A Son Unique is a posthumous album by Ol' Dirty Bastard. Intended to be his third proper solo album , it was supposed to be released after ODB's death, but was eventually shelved...
, though this never occurred.
Memphis Bleek and Kanye West released 534
534 (album)
-Samples:"534"* "London, Paris, New York" written by Graham Preskett"Interlude"* "Summer Song" Performed by Lisa Koch"Dear Summer"* "Morning Sunrise" performed by Weldon Irvine"Like That"* "Everybody Plays The Fool" by The Main Ingredient...
and Late Registration
Late Registration
Late Registration is the second studio album by American hip hop artist Kanye West, released August 30, 2005, on Roc-A-Fella Records. Recording sessions for the album took place over the course of a year at various recording studios located in New York City and Hollywood...
, respectively, in 2005, along with the Young Gunz
Young Gunz
The Young Gunz is an American rap duo from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania composed of Young Chris and Neef Buck . The group is part of Beanie Sigel's State Property collective and was signed to Roc-A-Fella Records...
' sophomore effort and Teairra Mari
Teairra Marí
Teairra Maria Thomas , better known by her stage name Teairra Marí, is an American singer-songwriter, actress, model, and dancer. At the age of 16, she was signed to Def Jam and released her first album, Teairra Marí. After disappointing sales, she was let go from her recording contract in the...
's debut, though only Kanye West's project saw significant reviews or sales. It was stated by Memphis Bleek that Cory Gunz
Cory Gunz
Peter Cory Pankey, Jr. is an American rapper, better known by his stage name Cory Gunz. He is the son of rapper Peter Gunz, member of the rap duo Lord Tariq & Peter Gunz, and cousin of fellow rapper Junior. Gunz is currently signed to Young Money Entertainment, Cash Money Records, After Platinum...
had signed, but nothing materialized. By the end of the year, Dash had split his label from Def Jam Recordings and Jay-Z's role overseeing his project, after asking for more money and a bigger role in the company. Dame Dash Music Group left Def Jam Recordings and was subsequently dissolved.
Roc Redefinition and Departure of Jay-Z
In 2006, releases were largely limited to those of Roc-La-FamiliaRoc-La-Familia
Roc-La-Familia was an international record label founded by Shawn "Jay-Z" Carter. This sub-label focused on signing international artists, including reggaeton artists, much like Bad Boy Latino. "OG" Juan Perez was appointed the president of the label and Cipha Sounds was the senior vice president...
, a Latino-geared label under Roc-A-Fella Records that followed the trend of Reggaeton
Reggaeton
Reggaeton is a form of Puerto Rican and Latin American urban and Caribbean music. After its mainstream exposure in 2004, it spread to North American, European and Asian audiences. Reggaeton originated in Puerto Rico but is also has roots from Reggae en Español from Panama and Puerto Rico and...
. Hector "El Father" and N.O.R.E.
N.O.R.E.
Victor Santiago, Jr., best known by his stage name N.O.R.E. or Noreaga , is an American rapper of Puerto Rican descent...
both put out albums, and the label was home to New York rapper Tru Life, but has since folded. Jay-Z made his return that year with Kingdom Come
Kingdom Come (Jay-Z album)
Kingdom Come is the ninth studio album by American rap artist Jay-Z. It was released on November 21, 2006. It was considered a "comeback album" for the established rapper, as 2003's The Black Album was slated to be his final release...
, to mixed reviews. He stepped down from his Def Jam Recordings position and put out a second album in 2007, American Gangster
American Gangster (album)
American Gangster is the tenth studio album by American rapper Jay-Z, released November 6, 2007 on Roc-A-Fella Records. It is Jay-Z's last studio release for the Def Jam and Roc-A-Fella Records label and his first concept album, which was inspired by the film of the same name. The album features...
, to more positive reviews and sales, along with Kanye West's Graduation
Graduation (album)
Graduation is the third studio album by American hip hop artist Kanye West, released September 11, 2007 on Roc-A-Fella Records. Recording sessions for the album took place during 2005 to 2007 at Chung King Studios and Sony Music Studios in New York City and at Chalice Studios and The Record Plant...
, Beanie Sigel's The Solution, and Freeway's Free at Last
Free at Last (Freeway album)
Free at Last is the second studio album by rapper Freeway. It was released on November 20, 2007 in the United States. The album features production from J. R. Rotem, Needlz, and Cool & Dre, among others. Guest appearances include Jay-Z, 50 Cent, Jadakiss and other notable rappers.-Background:In a...
; Kanye West's album sold multi-platinum to rave reviews. Freeway's project received critical acclaim but not major sales, and contained comments aimed at Kanye West and Just Blaze for not supplying production. He later amended his comments, stating he desired to work with Just Blaze but the producer hasn't reached out. This may have been due to Just Blaze's work on American Gangster and complications regarding his Atlantic Records
Atlantic Records
Atlantic Records is an American record label best known for its many recordings of rhythm and blues, rock and roll, and jazz...
-distributed label, Fort Knocks Entertainment
Fort Knocks Entertainment
Fort Knocks Entertainment is an American East Coast hip hop and R&B record label founded in 2004 by record producer, Just Blaze.-History:After his start as a local disc jockey, Just Blaze became a producer for Roc-A-Fella Records. He would mainly produce for prominent Roc-A-Fella artist, Jay-Z...
, and his artist Saigon
Saigon (rapper)
Brian Daniel Carenard, better known by his stage name Saigon, is an American rapper and occasional actor.Saigon is currently signed to Suburban Noize Records and Just Blaze's Fort Knocks Entertainment record label. After years of delay due to former record label interference, his album The Greatest...
.
The signing of Ruff Ryders Entertainment artist Jadakiss, former rival to both Jay-Z and Beanie Sigel, also came in 2007, as did Uncle Murda
Uncle Murda
Leonard Grant, better known by his stage name, Uncle Murda, is an American rapper from the Pink Houses section of East New York.- Musical career:...
. Foxy Brown was dropped from the label after two years, in light of a jail sentence. Though Young Chris and Peedi Crakk continued to appear on projects, neither seemed any closer to a solo projects, and in 2008 Peedi Crakk announced that the entire State Property group had been dropped from the label. This was countered by Beanie Sigel's manager, who confirmed that Beanie Sigel and Freeway were still part of Roc-A-Fella Records. Young Chris also apparently signed as a solo artist. 2008 saw only the release of Kanye West's 808's & Heartbreak, garnering decent sales but receiving mixed reviews from fans. It also brought repeated disses in songs and interviews from Peedi Crakk towards Jay-Z, claiming the rapper/exec held up his project on purpose, though he claims to have moved on. During that year, Jay-Z had inked a $150 million dollar deal with Live Nation
Live Nation
Live Nation is a live-events company based in Beverly Hills, California, focused on concert promotions. Live Nation formed in 2005 as a spin-off from Clear Channel Communications, which then merged with Ticketmaster in 2010 to become Live Nation Entertainment....
that included concerts, endorsements and recordings, and included a platform for him to launch his Roc Nation
Roc Nation
Roc Nation is an American management, music publishing and entertainment company founded by Shawn "Jay-Z" Carter.-History:In April 2008, Live Nation partnered with Jay-Z to create Roc Nation...
label. Uncle Murda left the label after a year and a half with no release, citing lack of executive interest after Jay-Z's exit from parent label Def Jam Recordings.
In March 2009, Freeway procured his release from Def Jam Recordings, claiming a need to explore his options; shortly, he announced his signing to Cash Money Records
Cash Money Records
Cash Money Records is a record label founded by brothers Bryan "Birdman" Williams and Ronald "Slim" Williams. Today it operates as a subsidiary of Universal Music Group, and is distributed by Universal Republic Records as of 2011...
, while stating he would always respect Roc-A-Fella Records. Longtime signee Memphis Bleek also reported his departure from Def Jam Recordings, deciding not to travel to Roc Nation in favor of starting his own record label, but he is still very closely associated with Roc-A-Fella Records. Additionally, rapper Tru Life has been referred to as a "one time [or past] affiliate" of Roc-A-Fella Records upon his turning himself in to authorities for his connection to a retaliatory stabbing. On May 21, 2009, Jay-Z had bought back his contract from Def Jam Recordings for an unprecedented $5,000,000 and started his deal with Live Nation.
By the time Jadakiss released his album, The Last Kiss, there was no buzz surrounding the album. He moved to Roc-A-Fella Records for the chance to work with their roster of talent to boost his music. However, once he began making music, they left. Later, it was revealed that Jadakiss had left Roc-A-Fella Records to reunite with the Ruff Ryders Entertainment label. On May 3, 2010, Damon Dash relaunched Roc-A-Fella Records after nearly a year of inactivity.
ROC Films
In 2002, following the release of the Rocawear clothing label, Roc-A-Fella Records released through Lions Gate Entertainment, State PropertyState property
State property is property owned by the state anything registered with the "state" becomes 'State property'. Such property may also referred to crown property...
. The movie, while not the first for Dame Dash, would be the start of ROC Films/Roc-A-Fella Films. The film studio would go on to release Paid In Full
Paid in Full (film)
Paid in Full is a 2002 American criminal drama film that was produced by Roc-A-Fella Films and directed by Charles Stone III. It takes place in Harlem just before the Crack Epidemic that hit during the 1980s. The title of the film is taken from the 1987 album by Eric B. and Rakim."Paid in Full" is...
the same year and follow up in 2003 with Paper Soldiers
Paper Soldiers
Paper Soldiers is an urban crime comedy released in 2002. It stars Kevin Hart, Beanie Sigel, Stacey Dash, Kamal Ahmed, and rapper Jay-Z appears in a cameo role...
and the hip-hop satire Death of a Dynasty
Death of a Dynasty
Death of a Dynasty is a comedy film first screened in 2003. It is a satire of the hip hop music industry centered around Roc-A-Fella Records, and stars Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Capone and Damon Dash. It also features cameo appearances by musicians, actors and celebrities such as Jay-Z, Mariah Carey,...
. In 2005 the sequel to the studios debut release would hit theatres State Property 2
State Property 2
State Property 2 is a 2005 American crime film directed by Damon Dash and produced and distributed by Lions Gate Entertainment. A sequel to 2002's State Property, the film stars rap artists and other musicians such as Cam'ron, The Diplomats, Beanie Sigel, N.O.R.E., Kanye West, Mariah Carey and...
, featuring rap stars such as Beanie Sigel and Damon Dash, who also produced and co-created the story. Cameo roles included musicians Kanye West, N.O.R.E and Mariah Carey, and Light Heavyweight champion boxers Bernard Hopkins and Winky Wright. The list of films include:
- Streets Is WatchingStreets Is Watching (film)Streets Is Watching is a musical film in which Jay-Z compiles many of his unreleased music videos into a continuous film. The film takes place in Jay-Z's old neighborhood in Brooklyn, New York. The film uses music from Jay-Z's albums Streets Is Watching, Reasonable Doubt, and In My Lifetime, Vol. 1...
(1998) - BackstageBackstage (2000 film)Backstage is a 2000 documentary film directed by Chris Fiore, chronicling the 1999 Hard Knock Life tour that featured several of hip hops top acts including Jay-Z, DMX, Method Man and Redman...
(2000) - State PropertyState Property (film)State Property is a 2002 American crime film starring Beanie Sigel, Omillio Sparks, Memphis Bleek and Damon Dash. Rapper Jay-Z appears in a cameo role. It was produced by Roc-A-Fella Films and distributed by Lions Gate Entertainment. Abdul Malik Abbott directed the film and co-wrote its screenplay...
(2002) - Paid in FullPaid in Full (film)Paid in Full is a 2002 American criminal drama film that was produced by Roc-A-Fella Films and directed by Charles Stone III. It takes place in Harlem just before the Crack Epidemic that hit during the 1980s. The title of the film is taken from the 1987 album by Eric B. and Rakim."Paid in Full" is...
(2002) - Paper SoldiersPaper SoldiersPaper Soldiers is an urban crime comedy released in 2002. It stars Kevin Hart, Beanie Sigel, Stacey Dash, Kamal Ahmed, and rapper Jay-Z appears in a cameo role...
(2003) - Death of a DynastyDeath of a DynastyDeath of a Dynasty is a comedy film first screened in 2003. It is a satire of the hip hop music industry centered around Roc-A-Fella Records, and stars Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Capone and Damon Dash. It also features cameo appearances by musicians, actors and celebrities such as Jay-Z, Mariah Carey,...
(2003) - Fade to Black (2004)
- State Property 2State Property 2State Property 2 is a 2005 American crime film directed by Damon Dash and produced and distributed by Lions Gate Entertainment. A sequel to 2002's State Property, the film stars rap artists and other musicians such as Cam'ron, The Diplomats, Beanie Sigel, N.O.R.E., Kanye West, Mariah Carey and...
(2005)
Armadale
In 2002 Roc-A-Fella Records announced they would be taking over U.S. distribution rights for the Scottish, Armadale vodka, from the previous owner William Grant & Sons. The vodka is described as an 80-proof brand of "hand-crafted triple distilled vodka." Burke describes the motivation for purchasing the label: "You always hear about us talking about the [vodka] in the songs so, like with the clothing and the music industry, we were like: ‘Why are we still making money for everyone else?'" It is believed the vodka was named after the town of Edinburgh, town of Armadale, due to its strong history of vodka distilling.Discography
| Year | Artist | Album |
|---|---|---|
| 1996 | Jay-Z Jay-Z Shawn Corey Carter , better known by his stage name Jay-Z, is an American rapper, record producer, entrepreneur, and occasional actor. He is one of the most financially successful hip hop artists and entrepreneurs in America, having a net worth of over $450 million as of 2010... |
Reasonable Doubt |
| 1997 | Christion Christión Christión was a male duo featuring brothers Kenni Ski and Allen Anthony, the first R&B act to be signed to Jay-Z's Roc-A-Fella Records. They released their single "Full of Smoke" on Roc-A-Fella in 1996, reaching #53 on the Hot 100 and #15 on the R&B charts.... |
Ghetto Cyrano |
| Jay-Z Jay-Z Shawn Corey Carter , better known by his stage name Jay-Z, is an American rapper, record producer, entrepreneur, and occasional actor. He is one of the most financially successful hip hop artists and entrepreneurs in America, having a net worth of over $450 million as of 2010... |
In My Lifetime, Vol. 1 In My Lifetime, Vol. 1 In My Lifetime, Vol. 1 is the second studio album by American rapper Jay-Z, released November 4, 1997 on Roc-A-Fella Records. Despite mixed criticism towards its more mainstream-oriented sound and lyrical substance, the album debuted at number 3 on the U.S... |
|
| 1998 | Various Artists | Streets Is Watching (soundtrack) Streets Is Watching (soundtrack) Streets Is Watching is the soundtrack for the film by the same name. It was released in 1998 by Jay-Z's Roc-A-Fella Records and it serves as a promotion of the up and coming artists on his label. The album fared well commercially reaching #3 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart and having two... |
| Jay-Z Jay-Z Shawn Corey Carter , better known by his stage name Jay-Z, is an American rapper, record producer, entrepreneur, and occasional actor. He is one of the most financially successful hip hop artists and entrepreneurs in America, having a net worth of over $450 million as of 2010... |
Vol. 2... Hard Knock Life Vol. 2... Hard Knock Life Vol. 2... Hard Knock Life is the third studio album by American rapper Jay-Z, released on September 29, 1998, on Roc-A-Fella Records in the United States. The album propelled Jay-Z into superstar status and cemented him as a household name in the post Biggie/Tupac era of hip hop. This album also... |
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| DJ Clue DJ Clue Ernesto Shaw better known as DJ Clue?, is a mixtape DJ.-Biography:For more than 10 years, DJ Clue has proven that he is more than just a beat-thumper. His accomplishments show how a turntable genius precisely puts together different songs to make a concoction of beats and melodies that rule the... |
The Professional The Professional (album) The Professional is DJ Clue?'s debut studio album. It features appearances from the likes of DMX, M.O.P, Jay Z and more.- Track listing :# "Intro"# "Ruff Ryders' Anthem"... |
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| 1999 | Memphis Bleek Memphis Bleek Malik Thuston Patrick Cox , better known by his rap persona of Memphis Bleek or "Bleek", is a New York rapper mainly known for his tenure with Roc-a-Fella Records and CEO of his own label Get Low Records... |
The Coming of Age The Coming of Age Coming of Age is the debut album by rapper Memphis Bleek. Bleek made his debut as a recording artist on a Jay-Z song by that same name.-Track listing:# "Pain in da Ass Intro" – 0:43... |
| Jay-Z Jay-Z Shawn Corey Carter , better known by his stage name Jay-Z, is an American rapper, record producer, entrepreneur, and occasional actor. He is one of the most financially successful hip hop artists and entrepreneurs in America, having a net worth of over $450 million as of 2010... |
Vol. 3... Life and Times of S. Carter Vol. 3... Life and Times of S. Carter Vol. 3… Life and Times of S. Carter is the fourth studio album by American rapper Jay-Z, released December 28, 1999 on Roc-A-Fella Records. It exhibits a return to the street-oriented sound of his debut album, Reasonable Doubt... |
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| 2000 | Beanie Sigel Beanie Sigel Dwight Grant , also known as Beanie Sigel, is a American rapper from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania,most recently he was in talks with 50 Cent to sign with G-Unit Records and is a former member/artist of Dame Dash Music Group and Roc-A-Fella Records where he had formed a close association with rappers... |
The Truth The Truth (Beanie Sigel album) The Truth is the debut album by rapper Beanie Sigel. It was released on February 29, 2000 to positive critical and commercial success. It reached Number 5 on The Billboard 200 and had three charting remotely popular singles: "Anything", "Remember Them Days" and "The Truth," which samples Chicago by... |
| Various Artists | Backstage: A Hard Knock Life Backstage: A Hard Knock Life Backstage: A Hard Knock Life is the soundtrack to the 2000 documentary film, Backstage. It was released on August 29, 2000 through Def Jam Recordings and featured production from DJ Clue?, Irv Gotti and Swizz Beatz, among others... |
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| Amil Amil Amil Whitehead more commonly known by her stage name Amil, is an American female rapper, singer, and songwriter from New York City. She was prominent in the late 1990s as a Jay-Z protégé, most notably on the single "Can I Get A..." from the Rush Hour soundtrack.-Early life:Amil was born September... |
All Money Is Legal All Money Is Legal All Money Is Legal is the debut album by Amil. Lyrically, Amil impressed many of her fans with the song, "Smile 4 Me," where she turns her personal struggles into a heartfelt rhyme. On "I Got That," featuring Beyonce, Amil raps about independent women who do not need men to help them in life... |
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| Jay-Z Jay-Z Shawn Corey Carter , better known by his stage name Jay-Z, is an American rapper, record producer, entrepreneur, and occasional actor. He is one of the most financially successful hip hop artists and entrepreneurs in America, having a net worth of over $450 million as of 2010... |
The Dynasty: Roc La Familia The Dynasty: Roc La Familia Sample credits*"Intro contains a sample of "She Said Loves Me" by Kleeer*"I Just Wanna Love U " contains elements and samples of "Give it To Me Baby" performed by Rick James, and "The World is Filled" by the Notorious B.I.G.... |
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| Memphis Bleek Memphis Bleek Malik Thuston Patrick Cox , better known by his rap persona of Memphis Bleek or "Bleek", is a New York rapper mainly known for his tenure with Roc-a-Fella Records and CEO of his own label Get Low Records... |
The Understanding | |
| DJ Clue DJ Clue Ernesto Shaw better known as DJ Clue?, is a mixtape DJ.-Biography:For more than 10 years, DJ Clue has proven that he is more than just a beat-thumper. His accomplishments show how a turntable genius precisely puts together different songs to make a concoction of beats and melodies that rule the... |
The Professional, Pt. 2 | |
| 2001 | Beanie Sigel Beanie Sigel Dwight Grant , also known as Beanie Sigel, is a American rapper from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania,most recently he was in talks with 50 Cent to sign with G-Unit Records and is a former member/artist of Dame Dash Music Group and Roc-A-Fella Records where he had formed a close association with rappers... |
The Reason The Reason (2001 album) The Reason is the second studio album by rapper Beanie Sigel. The album was released on Roc-A-Fella Records on June 26, 2001. The album contains 14 tracks, and special guests include Scarface, Memphis Bleek, Freeway, Jay-Z, Daz, Kurupt, Clinton Sparks and Rell.-Track listing:-Samples:Nothing Like... |
| Jay-Z Jay-Z Shawn Corey Carter , better known by his stage name Jay-Z, is an American rapper, record producer, entrepreneur, and occasional actor. He is one of the most financially successful hip hop artists and entrepreneurs in America, having a net worth of over $450 million as of 2010... |
The Blueprint The Blueprint The Blueprint is the sixth studio album by American rapper Jay-Z, released September 11, 2001 on Roc-A-Fella Records in the United States. Its release was set a week earlier than initially planned in order to combat bootlegging. Recording sessions for the album took place during 2001 at Manhattan... |
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| Jay-Z Jay-Z Shawn Corey Carter , better known by his stage name Jay-Z, is an American rapper, record producer, entrepreneur, and occasional actor. He is one of the most financially successful hip hop artists and entrepreneurs in America, having a net worth of over $450 million as of 2010... |
Jay-Z: Unplugged Jay-Z: Unplugged - Track listing :# "Izzo " - 5:08# "Takeover" - 4:57# "Girls, Girls, Girls" - 4:41# "Jigga What, Jigga Who" - 2:34# "Big Pimpin'" - 4:11# "Heart of the City " - 4:05# "Can I Get A..." - 1:42# "Hard Knock Life " - 1:31... |
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| 2002 | State Property State Property (Group) State Property is a rap group from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA led by rapper Beanie Sigel with Philly rappers Freeway, Peedi Peedi, Oschino, and Omillio Sparks, and the Young Gunz and female R&B singer Casha... |
State Property (soundtrack) State Property (soundtrack) State Property is the soundtrack to the 2002 film, State Property, and the debut album by the rap group, State Property. The album was a success, making it to 14 on the Billboard 200, 1 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums and 2 on the Top Soundtracks, and spawned one single "Roc the Mic", which was a... |
| R. Kelly R. Kelly Robert Sylvester Kelly , better known by his stage name R. Kelly, is an American singer-songwriter and record producer. A native of Chicago, Kelly began performing during the late 1980s and debuted in 1992 with the group Public Announcement. In 1993, Kelly went solo with the album 12 Play... & Jay-Z Jay-Z Shawn Corey Carter , better known by his stage name Jay-Z, is an American rapper, record producer, entrepreneur, and occasional actor. He is one of the most financially successful hip hop artists and entrepreneurs in America, having a net worth of over $450 million as of 2010... |
The Best of Both Worlds The Best of Both Worlds (R. Kelly & Jay-Z album) - Charts :... |
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| Cam'ron Cam'ron Cameron Giles , better known by his stage name Cam'ron or "Killa Cam", is a Grammy-nominated American actor. He is the founder of the hip-hop group The Diplomats , and also of The U.N. group.... |
Come Home With Me Come Home with Me Come Home with Me is the third studio album by Harlem rapper Cam'ron, it is also his debut on Roc-A-Fella Records. It served as an introduction of the Cam'ron-fronted rap group, The Diplomats, to the general public. There are featured guest appearances from The Diplomats, DJ Kay Slay, Daz... |
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| Various Artists | Paid in Full (soundtrack) Paid in Full (soundtrack) Paid in Full is the soundtrack to the 2002 film, Paid in Full. It was released on November 26, 2002 through Roc-A-Fella Records and featured two discs, the first disc was a collection of old school hip hop and R&B songs, while the second was a collection of new songs recorded by the Roc-A-Fella... |
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| Jay-Z Jay-Z Shawn Corey Carter , better known by his stage name Jay-Z, is an American rapper, record producer, entrepreneur, and occasional actor. He is one of the most financially successful hip hop artists and entrepreneurs in America, having a net worth of over $450 million as of 2010... |
The Blueprint²: The Gift & the Curse | |
| 2003 | Freeway Freeway (rapper) Leslie Edward Pridgen , better known by his stage name Freeway, is an American rapper. Best known for his tenure on Roc-A-Fella Records and his affiliation with Jay-Z and Beanie Sigel, he is recognized by his high-pitched delivery and for the long beard he keeps due to his Muslim faith... |
Philadelphia Freeway Philadelphia Freeway Philadelphia Freeway was the debut album from Philadelphia rapper Freeway. It was released under Roc-A-Fella Records and Def Jam Recordings. The most successful single was "What We Do" which featured Jay-Z and Beanie Sigel. Another single that was released was "Flipside" which featured Peedi Crakk... |
| Cam'ron Cam'ron Cameron Giles , better known by his stage name Cam'ron or "Killa Cam", is a Grammy-nominated American actor. He is the founder of the hip-hop group The Diplomats , and also of The U.N. group.... |
7 Series Sampler: Come Home With Me | |
| The Diplomats The Diplomats The Diplomats, also popularly known as Dipset, are a Harlem-based hip hop group founded by Cam'ron and Jim Jones in 1997. The original members of the group were Cam'ron, Freekey Zekey, and Jim Jones ; who all grew up together in Harlem... |
Diplomatic Immunity Diplomatic Immunity (album) Diplomatic Immunity is the debut album by The Diplomats, released on March 25, 2003. After the release of group leader Cam'ron's third album, Come Home With Me, the quartet teamed up to release their first collaborative effort... |
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| Jay-Z Jay-Z Shawn Corey Carter , better known by his stage name Jay-Z, is an American rapper, record producer, entrepreneur, and occasional actor. He is one of the most financially successful hip hop artists and entrepreneurs in America, having a net worth of over $450 million as of 2010... |
The Blueprint 2.1 The Blueprint 2.1 The Blueprint 2.1 is a compilation album, by rapper Jay-Z, created from a re-cut version of The Blueprint²: The Gift & the Curse. It was certified gold by the RIAA. One LP single was released,"Stop /Excuse Me Miss Again".- Track listing :... |
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| State Property State Property (Group) State Property is a rap group from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA led by rapper Beanie Sigel with Philly rappers Freeway, Peedi Peedi, Oschino, and Omillio Sparks, and the Young Gunz and female R&B singer Casha... |
The Chain Gang Vol. 2 The Chain Gang Vol. 2 The Chain Gang Vol. 2 is the second album by rap group State Property. It was released in 2003. Young Gunz' "Can't Stop Won't Stop" was later nominated for the 2003 Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group Grammy Award.The album sold 296,000 units... |
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| Juelz Santana Juelz Santana LaRon Louis James , better known by his stage name Juelz Santana, is an American rapper, producer, and actor. He appeared on Cam'ron's 2002 singles, "Oh Boy" and "Hey Ma"... |
From Me to U From Me To U From Me to U is the debut album by the American Hip-Hop rapper Juelz Santana, released on August 19, 2003. The album was seen as the introspective introduction of the rapper to mainstream entertainment... |
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| Jay-Z Jay-Z Shawn Corey Carter , better known by his stage name Jay-Z, is an American rapper, record producer, entrepreneur, and occasional actor. He is one of the most financially successful hip hop artists and entrepreneurs in America, having a net worth of over $450 million as of 2010... |
The Black Album The Black Album (Jay-Z album) The Black Album is the eighth studio album by American rapper Jay-Z, released November 14, 2003, on Roc-A-Fella Records. It was promoted as his final studio album, which serves as a recurring theme, although Jay-Z returned to solo recording with Kingdom Come in 2006.The album debuted at number one... |
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| Memphis Bleek Memphis Bleek Malik Thuston Patrick Cox , better known by his rap persona of Memphis Bleek or "Bleek", is a New York rapper mainly known for his tenure with Roc-a-Fella Records and CEO of his own label Get Low Records... |
M.A.D.E. M.A.D.E. M.A.D.E. is the third studio album by rapper Memphis Bleek. It was released on December 16, 2003 and at best it reached #35. The album sold 150,000 copies in its first week, which was a record for Memphis Bleek.... |
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| Various Artists | Roc-A-Fella Records Presents: The Roc Files, Vol. 1 | |
| 2004 | Kanye West Kanye West Kanye Omari West is an American rapper, singer, and record producer. West first rose to fame as a producer for Roc-A-Fella Records, where he eventually achieved recognition for his work on Jay-Z's album The Blueprint, as well as hit singles for musical artists including Alicia Keys, Ludacris, and... |
The College Dropout The College Dropout The College Dropout is the debut album by American hip hop artist Kanye West, released February 10, 2004, on Roc-A-Fella Records. It was recorded over a period of four years, beginning in 1999. Prior to the album's release, West had worked on rapper Jay-Z's The Blueprint , which showcased his... |
| Young Gunz Young Gunz The Young Gunz is an American rap duo from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania composed of Young Chris and Neef Buck . The group is part of Beanie Sigel's State Property collective and was signed to Roc-A-Fella Records... |
Tough Luv Tough Luv Tough Luv is the debut album by Philadelphia rap-duo Young Gunz, released February 24, 2004. "Can't Stop Won't Stop" was later nominated for a Grammy Award for "Best Rap Performance By a Duo or Group". There are numerous guest appearances by other Roc-A-Fella Records artists of that time on this... |
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| R. Kelly R. Kelly Robert Sylvester Kelly , better known by his stage name R. Kelly, is an American singer-songwriter and record producer. A native of Chicago, Kelly began performing during the late 1980s and debuted in 1992 with the group Public Announcement. In 1993, Kelly went solo with the album 12 Play... & Jay-Z Jay-Z Shawn Corey Carter , better known by his stage name Jay-Z, is an American rapper, record producer, entrepreneur, and occasional actor. He is one of the most financially successful hip hop artists and entrepreneurs in America, having a net worth of over $450 million as of 2010... |
Unfinished Business | |
| Jay-Z Jay-Z Shawn Corey Carter , better known by his stage name Jay-Z, is an American rapper, record producer, entrepreneur, and occasional actor. He is one of the most financially successful hip hop artists and entrepreneurs in America, having a net worth of over $450 million as of 2010... & Linkin Park Linkin Park Linkin Park is an American rock band from Agoura Hills, California. Formed in 1996, the band rose to international fame with their debut album, Hybrid Theory, which was certified Diamond by the RIAA in 2005 and multi-platinum in several other countries... |
Collision Course Collision Course (album) Critics were divided over Collision Course, with some praising the album, while others negatively received it.David Jeffries of allmusic praised the album, calling it "awesomely fun". K.B... |
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| Cam'ron Cam'ron Cameron Giles , better known by his stage name Cam'ron or "Killa Cam", is a Grammy-nominated American actor. He is the founder of the hip-hop group The Diplomats , and also of The U.N. group.... |
Purple Haze Purple Haze (album) Purple Haze is the fourth studio album by Harlem rapper Cam'ron. It was released on December 7, 2004. The release of this album was delayed several times from November 2003, the first single "Get Em Girls" was released a year prior to the actual album release... |
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| 2005 | Beanie Sigel Beanie Sigel Dwight Grant , also known as Beanie Sigel, is a American rapper from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania,most recently he was in talks with 50 Cent to sign with G-Unit Records and is a former member/artist of Dame Dash Music Group and Roc-A-Fella Records where he had formed a close association with rappers... |
The B.Coming |
| Memphis Bleek Memphis Bleek Malik Thuston Patrick Cox , better known by his rap persona of Memphis Bleek or "Bleek", is a New York rapper mainly known for his tenure with Roc-a-Fella Records and CEO of his own label Get Low Records... |
534 534 (album) -Samples:"534"* "London, Paris, New York" written by Graham Preskett"Interlude"* "Summer Song" Performed by Lisa Koch"Dear Summer"* "Morning Sunrise" performed by Weldon Irvine"Like That"* "Everybody Plays The Fool" by The Main Ingredient... |
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| Young Gunz Young Gunz The Young Gunz is an American rap duo from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania composed of Young Chris and Neef Buck . The group is part of Beanie Sigel's State Property collective and was signed to Roc-A-Fella Records... |
Brothers From Another Brothers From Another Brothers from Another is the second studio album by Philadelphia rap-duo Young Gunz, released on May 24, 2005. After a brief hiatus, the duo returned with Swizz Beatz produced "Set It Off."... |
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| Teairra Mari Teairra Marí Teairra Maria Thomas , better known by her stage name Teairra Marí, is an American singer-songwriter, actress, model, and dancer. At the age of 16, she was signed to Def Jam and released her first album, Teairra Marí. After disappointing sales, she was let go from her recording contract in the... |
Roc-A-Fella Presents: Teairra Mari Roc-A-Fella Presents: Teairra Mari Teairra Marí is the debut album by Roc-A-Fella Records recording artist Teairra Marí. The album debuted in the top five selling 69,000 copies in the first week, eventually selling 500,000 units..-Singles:... |
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| Kanye West Kanye West Kanye Omari West is an American rapper, singer, and record producer. West first rose to fame as a producer for Roc-A-Fella Records, where he eventually achieved recognition for his work on Jay-Z's album The Blueprint, as well as hit singles for musical artists including Alicia Keys, Ludacris, and... |
Late Registration Late Registration Late Registration is the second studio album by American hip hop artist Kanye West, released August 30, 2005, on Roc-A-Fella Records. Recording sessions for the album took place over the course of a year at various recording studios located in New York City and Hollywood... |
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| 2006 | Kanye West Kanye West Kanye Omari West is an American rapper, singer, and record producer. West first rose to fame as a producer for Roc-A-Fella Records, where he eventually achieved recognition for his work on Jay-Z's album The Blueprint, as well as hit singles for musical artists including Alicia Keys, Ludacris, and... |
Late Orchestration Late Orchestration Late Orchestration is a live album by American hip hop artist Kanye West, released on April 24, 2006 on Mercury Records. The album features recordings of live renditions of songs derived from his first two studio albums. It was recorded at the famed Abbey Road Studios in London, England before an... |
| DJ Clue DJ Clue Ernesto Shaw better known as DJ Clue?, is a mixtape DJ.-Biography:For more than 10 years, DJ Clue has proven that he is more than just a beat-thumper. His accomplishments show how a turntable genius precisely puts together different songs to make a concoction of beats and melodies that rule the... |
The Professional, Pt. 3 The Professional, Pt. 3 The Professional 3 is the third studio album from DJ and producer DJ Clue?. It was released December 19th, 2006 on Desert Storm Records, Roc-A-Fella Records and Def Jam Recordings.... |
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| Hector Bambino "El Father" | Los Rompe Discotekas Los Rompe Discotekas Los Rompe Discotekas is a 2006 compilation album by Hector "El Father". This album was released under the Rocafella record label and under contract with Jay-Z. Popular singles include "Here We Go Yo" by Hector "El Father" Featuring Jay-Z, "Yomo Dele" by Yomo featuring Fat Joe, and "El Teléfono" by... |
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| N.O.R.E. N.O.R.E. Victor Santiago, Jr., best known by his stage name N.O.R.E. or Noreaga , is an American rapper of Puerto Rican descent... |
N.O.R.E. y la Familia...Ya Tú Sabe N.O.R.E. y la Familia...Ya Tú Sabe N.O.R.E. y la Familia...Ya Tú Sabe is the fourth solo studio album by rapper N.O.R.E., released on July 18, 2006... |
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| Jay-Z Jay-Z Shawn Corey Carter , better known by his stage name Jay-Z, is an American rapper, record producer, entrepreneur, and occasional actor. He is one of the most financially successful hip hop artists and entrepreneurs in America, having a net worth of over $450 million as of 2010... |
Kingdom Come Kingdom Come (Jay-Z album) Kingdom Come is the ninth studio album by American rap artist Jay-Z. It was released on November 21, 2006. It was considered a "comeback album" for the established rapper, as 2003's The Black Album was slated to be his final release... |
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| 2007 | Kanye West Kanye West Kanye Omari West is an American rapper, singer, and record producer. West first rose to fame as a producer for Roc-A-Fella Records, where he eventually achieved recognition for his work on Jay-Z's album The Blueprint, as well as hit singles for musical artists including Alicia Keys, Ludacris, and... |
Graduation Graduation (album) Graduation is the third studio album by American hip hop artist Kanye West, released September 11, 2007 on Roc-A-Fella Records. Recording sessions for the album took place during 2005 to 2007 at Chung King Studios and Sony Music Studios in New York City and at Chalice Studios and The Record Plant... |
| Jay-Z Jay-Z Shawn Corey Carter , better known by his stage name Jay-Z, is an American rapper, record producer, entrepreneur, and occasional actor. He is one of the most financially successful hip hop artists and entrepreneurs in America, having a net worth of over $450 million as of 2010... |
American Gangster American Gangster (album) American Gangster is the tenth studio album by American rapper Jay-Z, released November 6, 2007 on Roc-A-Fella Records. It is Jay-Z's last studio release for the Def Jam and Roc-A-Fella Records label and his first concept album, which was inspired by the film of the same name. The album features... |
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| Freeway Freeway (rapper) Leslie Edward Pridgen , better known by his stage name Freeway, is an American rapper. Best known for his tenure on Roc-A-Fella Records and his affiliation with Jay-Z and Beanie Sigel, he is recognized by his high-pitched delivery and for the long beard he keeps due to his Muslim faith... |
Free at Last Free at Last (Freeway album) Free at Last is the second studio album by rapper Freeway. It was released on November 20, 2007 in the United States. The album features production from J. R. Rotem, Needlz, and Cool & Dre, among others. Guest appearances include Jay-Z, 50 Cent, Jadakiss and other notable rappers.-Background:In a... |
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| Beanie Sigel Beanie Sigel Dwight Grant , also known as Beanie Sigel, is a American rapper from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania,most recently he was in talks with 50 Cent to sign with G-Unit Records and is a former member/artist of Dame Dash Music Group and Roc-A-Fella Records where he had formed a close association with rappers... |
The Solution | |
| 2008 | Kanye West Kanye West Kanye Omari West is an American rapper, singer, and record producer. West first rose to fame as a producer for Roc-A-Fella Records, where he eventually achieved recognition for his work on Jay-Z's album The Blueprint, as well as hit singles for musical artists including Alicia Keys, Ludacris, and... |
808s & Heartbreak 808s & Heartbreak 808s & Heartbreak is the fourth studio album by American hip hop artist Kanye West, released November 24, 2008 on Roc-A-Fella Records in the United States. Recording sessions for the album took place at Glenwood Studios in Burbank, California and Avex Recording Studio in Honolulu, Hawaii during... |
| 2009 | Jadakiss Jadakiss Jason Phillips , better known as Jadakiss, is an American rapper. He is a member of the group The LOX. Jadakiss is one of the three owners of the imprint known as D-Block. In early 2007, Jadakiss signed to Roc-a-Fella Records / Def Jam Records.-Early life:By the age of 16, Jadakiss was a freestyle... |
The Last Kiss |
| 2010 | Kanye West Kanye West Kanye Omari West is an American rapper, singer, and record producer. West first rose to fame as a producer for Roc-A-Fella Records, where he eventually achieved recognition for his work on Jay-Z's album The Blueprint, as well as hit singles for musical artists including Alicia Keys, Ludacris, and... |
My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy |
| 2011 | Jay-Z Jay-Z Shawn Corey Carter , better known by his stage name Jay-Z, is an American rapper, record producer, entrepreneur, and occasional actor. He is one of the most financially successful hip hop artists and entrepreneurs in America, having a net worth of over $450 million as of 2010... & Kanye West Kanye West Kanye Omari West is an American rapper, singer, and record producer. West first rose to fame as a producer for Roc-A-Fella Records, where he eventually achieved recognition for his work on Jay-Z's album The Blueprint, as well as hit singles for musical artists including Alicia Keys, Ludacris, and... |
Watch the Throne Watch the Throne Watch the Throne is a collaborative studio album by American rappers Jay-Z and Kanye West, released on August 8, 2011, by Roc-A-Fella Records, Roc Nation, and Def Jam Recordings. Recording sessions for the album took place at various recording locations and began in November 2010. It was... |