Jay-Z Biography
Shawn Corey Carter was born on December 4, 1969, in Brooklyn, New York. He grew up in the Marcy Houses projects and began selling drugs before pursuing music. He founded Roc-A-Fella Records and released Reasonable Doubt in 1996. He went on to become the most successful rapper in history and the first to achieve billionaire status.
Personal Life
Who are Jay-Z's parents?
Adnis Reeves, Gloria Carter
Was Jay-Z married?
Jay-Z was married once, to Beyoncé (2008–N/A).
Did Jay-Z have children?
Jay-Z had 3 children: Blue Ivy Carter, Rumi Carter, Sir Carter.
What religion was Jay-Z?
Jay-Z was N/A.
What was Jay-Z's ethnicity?
Jay-Z was of American heritage.
Career Highlights
Movies
- Annie (2014, producer)
Albums
- Reasonable Doubt (1996)
- Vol. 2... Hard Knock Life (1998)
- The Blueprint (2001)
- The Black Album (2003)
- Watch the Throne (2011, with Kanye)
- 4:44 (2017)
Awards
- 23 Grammy Awards
- Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
Facts About Jay-Z
- First rapper to become a billionaire
- Married to Beyoncé since 2008 — they have three children
- He co-founded Roc-A-Fella Records, Roc Nation, and TIDAL
- He grew up selling drugs in the Marcy Houses projects in Brooklyn
Jay-Z Quotes
"I'm not a businessman. I'm a business, man."
Legacy
Jay-Z is the first rapper billionaire. He has 23 Grammy Awards and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. His business empire includes Roc Nation, TIDAL, Armand de Brignac champagne, and D'Ussé cognac.
Sources
Last verified: 2026-05-20