The Brooklyn Public Library recently unveiled a tribute exhibition “The Book Of HOV,” in honor of legendary rapper Jay-Z. The exhibit, divided up between key elements of Jay’s career, is available for free to anyone with a library card. The display includes a recreation of Baseline Studios, a collection of records used as samples, artifacts, apparel, photos, and more.
Born Shawn Carter, Jay-Z grew up in the Marcy housing projects in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn. Raised by his mother Carter grew an affinity for music, specifically hip-hop, at an early age. In 1995, Jay, along with two partners, originally established Roc-A-Fella records after multiple labels rejected them. It was under Roc-A-Fella that Carter would drop his now famous debut album Reasonable Doubt in ‘96. The project would catapult the artist to rap stardom and since then “HOV” hasn’t looked back.
In total the Brooklyn native has released 13 solo albums, 4 collaborative projects, and has amassed 24 Grammy Awards. The rapper’s pen game has long been praised as one of the best in hip-hop history. Equipped with an endless supply of lyrical flows, metaphors, stories, and rhyming patterns, Jay has become one of the most influential figures in music.
Carter’s artistic legacy could provide more than enough content for an exhibit by itself, however it’s the rapper’s business and cultural accomplishments that has solidified him as one of the most successful musicians of all time. The Book Of Hov aims to honor the influences and events that helped to shape Jay into the artist and person he is today.
Punctuated by an atmosphere of inclusivity and individuality, the exhibit looks to inspire guests from all walks of life to “always bet on yourself”. Designed by Bruce and Shelly Rogers, the display makes up two floors of the library. In collaboration with the event the library created 13 new custom cards to correspond with HOV’s albums. Organizers also encourage guests to bring their own phones and music to help add to the experience.
Roc Nation CEO Desiree Perez devised the entire event reportedly without Carter’s knowledge. The organizers strategically placed the exhibit in a public space to ensure maximum accessibility. Roc Nation reportedly covered the costs of the entire exhibit and are expected to donate money, books, and records to the library.
Here for more information and details about The Book Of Hov.
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