Ep 6. Jay-Z

Jay-Z, born Shawn Corey Carter, is one of the most successful and influential music moguls in the industry, having sold over 100 million records and won 22 Grammy awards. But his impact extends far beyond just music, as he has also become a business mogul and philanthropist.

In episode six of Bloomberg Game Changers season one, we dive deep into Jay-Z's rise to fame and fortune, exploring his transformation from a drug dealer in Brooklyn's Marcy Projects to a multi-billion-dollar businessman. We hear from those who have worked closely with him throughout his career, including business partners, record label executives, and industry experts.

The episode begins by setting the scene for Jay-Z's humble beginnings, highlighting his early struggles and the circumstances that led him down a dangerous path of drug dealing and crime. But despite the odds stacked against him, Jay-Z found an escape in music, and this passion would ultimately change the course of his life.

The show then delves into Jay-Z's early career, exploring his start in the music industry as a rapper and his first record deal with Jaz-O. We hear about the challenges he faced as a relatively unknown artist in an industry dominated by established stars, as well as the strategies he employed to break through and gain recognition.

From there, the episode takes a closer look at Jay-Z's rise to fame and influence, exploring his business ventures and entrepreneurial endeavors. We learn about his founding of Roc-A-Fella Records, which became a major player in the hip-hop industry, as well as his collaboration with fellow music mogul Damon Dash.

But Jay-Z's ambitions didn't stop there, as he branched out into a variety of industries beyond music. With the creation of the entertainment company Roc Nation, he became a major force in the sports and fashion worlds, partnering with major brands and athletes.

Throughout the episode, we get a glimpse of Jay-Z's business philosophy, which values creativity, innovation, and risk-taking. We hear from those who have worked with him closely, who attest to his commitment to excellence and his unwavering drive to push himself and those around him to be their best.

But the show also highlights Jay-Z's philanthropic efforts, which have been a major focus of his later career. We learn about his work with the Shawn Carter Foundation, which provides educational opportunities to underprivileged youth, as well as his activism on issues like police brutality and social justice.

Overall, the episode paints a portrait of a dynamic and multifaceted individual, whose talents and ambitions have made him a true game changer in the worlds of music, business, and philanthropy. Whether you're a fan of Jay-Z's music or simply curious about how one person can achieve such extraordinary success, this episode is a must-watch.