Jay Z (1967-present)

Many regard Shawn Corey Carter or rapper Jay Z as one of the most influential rappers in history. The Marcy projects in Brooklyn, New York, surrounded him with gang violence and drugs, but his love for music blossomed. Things changed for the better when, in 1996, he kindled his rap career with his debut album “Reasonable Doubt.” Today, Jay Z is a businessman, songwriter, record executive and has the most number-one albums of any solo artist in history. Being a businessman, he co-founded Roc-A-Fella Records, was president of Def Jam Records, founded an entertainment company, and has his own sports agency called Roc Nation Sports (The Undefeated 44, 2020).

His story has inspired many Black men in poverty to persevere through his resilience.