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Jay-Z

Jay-Z is an American rapper, songwriter, record producer, entrepreneur, and music executive whose birth name is Shawn Corey Carter.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Jay-Z is an American rapper, songwriter, record producer, entrepreneur, and music executive whose birth name is Shawn Corey Carter. Born in Brooklyn, New York, he became one of hip-hop’s most influential figures through his solo albums, business ventures, and record labels. He is also known for his marriage to Beyoncé and for becoming one of the best-selling music artists of all time.

Early life

Jay-Z was born in Brooklyn and grew up in the Marcy Houses housing project. Sources describe his upbringing as an important influence on the themes in his music.

Music career

He emerged in the mid-1990s with Reasonable Doubt and went on to release a long run of commercially successful albums. He is known for songs including "Hard Knock Life," "Big Pimpin'," and "Empire State of Mind."

Business ventures

Beyond recording, Jay-Z built a business career through labels, entertainment companies, and fashion-related ventures. Sources identify him as a co-founder of Roc-A-Fella Records and Roc Nation.

Awards and recognition

He has received numerous major awards and honors, including multiple Grammy Awards and induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2021. He was also the first hip-hop artist inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.

Key facts

  • He is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in hip-hop and early 21st-century popular music.
  • His debut studio album, Reasonable Doubt, was released in 1996.
  • He co-founded Roc-A-Fella Records and later founded Roc Nation.
  • He has won multiple Grammy Awards, with sources reporting 24 or 25.
  • He married Beyoncé in 2008.
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Canadian context

Jay-Z has toured in Canada, and his music has had strong chart and radio presence among Canadian hip-hop and pop audiences.

Frequently asked questions

What is Jay-Z's real name?
His birth name is Shawn Corey Carter.
When was Jay-Z born?
He was born on December 4, 1969.
What is Jay-Z known for?
He is known as a rapper, songwriter, producer, entrepreneur, and music executive.
What was Jay-Z's debut album?
His debut studio album was Reasonable Doubt, released in 1996.
Is Jay-Z married?
Yes. He has been married to singer and businesswoman Beyoncé since 2008.
How many Grammy Awards has Jay-Z won?
Sources in the results give different totals, including 24 and 25 Grammy Awards.

References

  1. Biography.com — https://www.biography.com/musicians/jay-z
    Supports: Birth name, birthplace, career overview, awards, marriage to Beyoncé, and early life details.
  2. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/biography/Jay-Z
    Supports: Birth date, birthplace, and description as an influential rapper and entrepreneur.
  3. Roc Nation — https://www.rocnation.com/music/jay-z/
    Supports: Birth date, debut album, Roc Nation role, awards, and hall of fame induction.
  4. Genius — https://genius.com/artists/Jay-z
    Supports: Birth name, career output, record sales, and album-count claims.
  5. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0419650/bio/
    Supports: Birth date, birthplace, marriage to Beyoncé, and career summary.