This title examines the fascinating life of Jay-Z. Readers will learn about Jay-Z’s childhood, family, time as a drug dealer, rise to fame, and relationship with Beyoncé. Colorful graphics, oversize photos, and informative sidebars accompany easy-to-read, compelling text that explores Jay-Z’s early interest in music that led to the release of his albums Reasonable Doubt, In My Lifetime, Vol. 1, Vol. 2…Hard Knock Life, Vol. 3…Life and Times of S. Carter, The Dynasty: Roc La Familia, The Blueprint, The Blueprint 2: The Gift and the Curse, The Black Album, Kingdom Come, American Gangster, his record label Roc-A-Fella Records, his clothing brand Rocawear, his Grammy Awards, his time as Def Jam’s CEO, which included signing stars such as Rihanna, Young Jeezy, Ne-Yo, Nas, and the Roots, and his philanthropic efforts. Features include a table of contents, glossary, selected bibliography, Web links, source notes, and an index, plus a timeline and fun facts. Contemporary Lives is a series in Essential Library, an imprint of ABDO Publishing Company.