Jay-Z talks about how he first started rapping and growing up in Bed-Stuy. He said he started rapping at the age of 9 and also saw someone get shot at that age. He goes on to say the thought of ever being broke again motivates him to succeed. Its a funny interview worth the watch.

Part 2 of the interview is below, he talks about sampling, his upcoming performance & Beyonce.
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Props LowKey

TimeOut: It’s interesting that you say that – most rappers appear to be very cautious about speaking out about social problems in their interviews.

Jay-Z: ‘Right. Yeah, that all comes out of fear. You gotta figure where most of these guys are coming from. They’re coming from very poverty-stricken areas, and now here they are and they have a chance to provide for themselves and their generation, and they want to hold on to it. So they’re a little afraid of especially that type of thing – you’re gonna take on the government. They’re afraid of the repercussions of that. They’re gonna absolutely shut them down.’

Full Interview: TimeOut

In the interview Jay-Z talks about his upcoming Glastonbury concert, thoughts on the London music scene, fans trying to rob Lil Wayne during a concert, possibly investing into the Yankees and politics.

People are struggling, they’re broke, they gotta pay the light bill, then pay the rent.” They don’t even know what that means! That’s why people are not so involved with politics. I never voted until two, three years ago. Because as a kid that’s how I was brought up – whoever was in office, nothing changed.

-Jay-Z

I kind of got that mentality, to me it doesn’t matter who the president is, I just got to do me. With that said, people still need to vote in order for politicians to at least pretend to give a damn about them.

Again if anyone is going holla at me, part 2 and 3 is below.
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On “Mr. Carter,” Jay-Z calls you “my heir, Young Carter” — that had to feel pretty cool.

That line right there was hard! Unbelievable. I didn’t even realize it at first. My homie had to tell me “You know what he said, right?” I didn’t even get it. I was like, “Why is he saying ‘air’? Is he just talking about the air?” But I’m smart enough to know that he’s smart enough not to just be talking about the air. I felt real dumb, but then I felt so good. It was an incredible compliment.

Full Stoty: Rolling Stones

LOL, more videos beow
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Photo by Nigel D.

“It’s ridiculous, if we don’t embrace what is new, then how do we progress? I’ve never actually experienced anything like that before. It’s 2008, what is that about?”

“I listen to all types of music and that’s what should happen, that’s what the world should be about, mixing culture. There’s only good music and bad music.”

“I think that hip-hop is music and an art form, it’s poetry and it should be accepted and respected like any other art form. It’s just coming from a different perspective.” - Jay-Z

Full Story: VirtualFestivals

Is this a case of just adding the wrong element? What would happen if the Fall Out Boys were set to headline Summer Jam? I think there would be less controversy if he wasn’t the headliner but I’m sure he will add a rock feeling to his performance.

If anyone is going email me at info@realtalkny.net

Poppin or Floppin?

Lil Wayne ft. Jay-Z - Mr. Carter (Alternative Version)

Which version is hotter, this or the album?

Props Jon Banks

Original Version

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