Maturity
Jay-Z's comeback album explores themes of maturing and separating himself from the trends of younger artists. For example, in the song "30 Something," he raps about how he's toned down his flashiness and lets his team handle legal matters.
Regrets
Jay-Z often mentions regret in his music, and how to live with it. For example, on the outro of his debut album Reasonable Doubt, he says, "In order to survive, gotta learn to live with regrets".
Racism and stereotypes
In the song "The Story of O.J.," Jay-Z addresses racism and stereotypes within the Black community. The song features lyrics about O.J. Simpson and the idea that wealth and fame can transcend race.
Relationships
In the song "Song Cry," Jay-Z laments the effects of a demanding tour schedule and infidelity on his relationships. He wrote the song about three different relationships he had in the past.
New York City
In the song "Empire State of Mind," Jay-Z and Alicia Keys capture the love and pride the nation shared with New York City after 9/11. The song references notable neighborhoods and attending Knicks basketball games.
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