Jay-Z Reveals The Album He Feels Is The “Most Important”
JAY-Z recently shared a pivotal moment in his musical journey, singling out his third album, Vol. 2… Hard Knock Life, as the "most important" in his illustrious career.
In an in-depth interview with CBS Mornings' Gayle King, Hov delved into how this particular album marked a significant milestone in his evolution as a songwriter.
He emphasized the delicate balance of crafting music that aligned precisely with his vision. “And just as a writer, a technical song-maker. Song-making skills with real stories is when it all came together on this album.” he expressed.
Dropping in September 1998, Vol. 2… Hard Knock Life catapulted JAY-Z into the mainstream, clinching the top spot on the Billboard 200. It debuted with a staggering 350,000 copies in its opening week and maintained its dominance for five consecutive weeks.
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The project featured notable collaborations with artists like DMX, Ja Rule, The LOX, Jermaine Dupri, and Too $hort. Notably, it clinched the Best Rap Album award at the 41st Annual Grammy Awards and remains Hov’s highest-selling album, achieving an impressive 6x platinum status.
The album's triumph was fueled by the smash hit "Hard Knock Life (Ghetto Anthem)," which peaked at No. 15 on the Billboard Hot 100. Additionally, "Can I Get A…" secured a spot in the top 20.
Discussing the immediate impact of "Hard Knock Life," DJ Enuff highlighted its swift journey to radio waves, deeming it an instant hit. Kid Capri chimed in, noting that the track served as a gateway to JAY-Z's enduring legacy.
In a retrospective ranking of his own discography in 2013, JAY-Z placed Vol. 2… Hard Knock Life in the top four, underscoring its status as one of his four "classic" records.