Artist:

Jay-Z

Album:

The Blueprint 3

Label:

Roc Nation

Release Date:

September 11th, 2009

Rating: 4 out of 5

Jiggaman, the business man, returns with his eleventh studio album, The Blueprint 3, the final installment of his critically acclaimed BLUEPRINT series.

International success and various business ventures have made Shawn Carter B.K.A. Jay-Z a universal mogul. The Blueprint 3 boasts a phenomenal cast of talented musicians that bring their own element to the album making this an instant classic. Produced by Kanye West, Timbaland, The Neptunes and more. Blueprint 3 is reminiscent of an evolved Black Album.

Jay-Z has a way with album intros. “What We Talkin’ About” is an introduction to the latest classic. Luke Steele from Australian electronic group Empire of The Sun is remarkably dope on this track. Electronica + Hip Hop hones its own authentic style that is undeniably ill.

“Thank You” boast a strong instrumental beat wit Jay-Z’s swag flowing over a timeless beat.

The buzz single “Death of Autotunes” was not one of my choice favorite to promote The Blueprint 3. It’s a cool track after 100 listens, but not club or radio friendly. Guitars and drums provide the background.

The OFFICIAL “standup” track “Run This Town” is amazing.When you put 3 of the biggest artist in the world (Rihanna, Kanye West, and Jay-Z) together you can’t help but produce magic. Kanye West absolutely RIPS this joint.

"Empire State of Mind” is the official 2009 anthem of NEW YORK. Alicia Keys helps bring this track to life. It gives you a sense of accomplishment and success. It draws a mental map of what we all want to accomplish in life. Produced by Al Shux this track is an absolutely must to listen to.

Jay-Z brings in back-up from Young Jeezy in “Real As It Gets”. You can bang this in the club, in yo car, or on the block. This track goes hard anywhere! Sticking to the blueprint Jay-Z has found success in collaborations that bring different elements into one album. MUST HAVE!

“On To The Next” is a track produced by Swizz Beats. Swizzy’s signature style is all over this track. Even thou the track is undeniable it gets a little repetitive overall.

Get off that old sh*t cause we “Off That” is a BANGER featuring “It” Rapper Drake. Produced by Timbaland this track is an up-beat joint that Jay-Z brags about doing it big before anybody else that’s now old new. Definitely a track to listen too and vibe.

Produced by Kanye West and No I.D. “A Star Is Born” brings a smooth vibe to the album. Reminiscent of a soft rock song this track is a inspiring, but not one of my faves. Produced by Timbaland and J Roc.

Beat boxing on the lunchroom table describes “Venus Vs. Mars”. A simple beat with a crazy flow. Jay-Z goes hard on this track and it has potential to be a hot single on the charts.

“Already Home” is a smooth track that Jay-Z seamlessly rides the beat. Kanye West lends his creative production skills to this track featuring Kid Cudi.

“Hate” is a fiyah track produced by Mr. West, yet again featuring himself.This is a track that is dedicated to all the haters out there. With auto-tuned vocals in the background this track is simply good, but may have to grow on you.

This is a “Reminder” that Jay-Z is the best in the game. Timbaland and J Roc produced this head banger. Hov gives his testimony and facts on why he’s the best over string instruments and a banging beat. Definitely a must have on the album. It would have been genius to feature Eminem on this track.

The Neptunes produced track “So Ambitious” is self-explanatory. Negative comments from naysayers are motivation for everybody. Pharrell’s vocals power the hook of this smooth track, while Jay-Z flashbacks about all those who went against his plan. This track most definitely grooves in the speakers.

As the sunsets over a beautiful day “Young Forever” is playing in the background. Mr. Hudson’s soulful vocals over the hook, 80’s inspired beats, and Jay’s flow is the perfect way to end a classic album with simple inspiration.

The Blueprint 3 is an instant classic. Providing you with classic hip-hop with the fusion of different genres. Whether you are a hardcore Jay-Z fan or an occasional hip-hop listen, there is something for everyone. Inspiration, dedication, and success all describe The Blueprint 3. The once “Hard Knock Life” Jay-Z has evolved into the success Shawn Carter.

BEST TRACKS:

"What We Talkin' About" Featuring Luke Steele

"Empire State of Mind" Featuring Alicia Keys

"Run This Town" Featuring Rihanna & Kanye West

"Real As It Gets" Featuring Young Jeezy

"Venus Vs. Mars"