On Thursday, November 14, one of the most important hip-hop records in recent memory, Jay Z’s Black Album, celebrated its ten-year anniversary. To go along with a retrospective review of the record, REVOLT took a deeper look into the iconic album—rumored to be Jay’s last upon its release—by speaking with some of its contributors about the recording and creation process, Jay’s undying talent and presence in hip-hop, and the legacy of the LP ten years later.
Over the course of weeks, we spoke with Pharrell Williams, co-producer of The Black Album’s “Change Clothes” and “Allure”; Just Blaze, producer of “December 4th” and “Public Service Announcement”; 9th Wonder, producer of “Threat”; Aqua, co-producer of “My 1st Song”; Irv Gotti, Jay’s longtime friend and collaborator; Young Chris, Jay’s mentee and signee to Roc-A-Fella Records; Jonathan Mannion, the famed photographer who shot many album covers for Jay, including The Black Album’s; and Gabby Peluso, the former GM of Def Jam.
And after premiering on-air on Thursday night on REVOLT’s hip-hop show The Gate and giving you some closer looks on Monday and Tuesday with extended interviews with Just Blaze and 9th Wonder, our Black Album special is now available to be seen right here on REVOLT’s newly remodeled site. Check out the piece in its entirety now. #FadeToBlack
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