Jay-Z

Shawn Corey Carter, known by his stage name, Jay-Z, is a Grammy Award-winning American rapper and businessman. He is one of the best-selling musicians of all time, having sold more than 100 million records while receiving 24 Grammy Awards for his music.

Jay-Z is also known for his marriage to singer Beyoncé, forming a power couple in the entertainment industry. Together, they have worked on several projects and are known for their philanthropy and activism, particularly in areas such as criminal justice reform and supporting marginalized communities.

Over the years, Jay-Z released a series of highly acclaimed albums, including "Vol. 2... Hard Knock Life" (1998), "The Blueprint" (2001), and "The Black Album" (2003). His music is known for its lyrical complexity, storytelling, and reflection on his life experiences, including his early involvement in drug dealing and his rise to stardom.

Beyond music, Jay-Z has proven himself as a savvy businessman. He founded Rocawear clothing in 1999, which became a massive success before being sold in 2007 for $204 million. He is also the founder of the entertainment company Roc Nation, which manages artists, produces music, and ventures into sports management through Roc Nation Sports.

In addition to his business ventures, Jay-Z has invested in various sectors, including the streaming service Tidal, and is known for his involvement in the liquor industry, particularly with his champagne brand, Armand de Brignac. He became the first hip-hop billionaire in 2019, solidifying his status as a major figure in both music and business.

Rolling Stone ranked three of his albums — Reasonable Doubt, The Blueprint, and The Black Album — among The 500 Greatest Albums of All Time.