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The Evolution of Jay-Z
If you're a true Jay-Z fan, you already know that today, December 4, is Sean Carter's born day, thanks to the opener of The Black Album. But even if you aren't (wait—you aren't?), it's impossible to front on Hov's contributions to hip hop over his 43 years on the planet. Eminem fans can certainly make a very strong counterargument, but other than that it's impossible to deny: Jay is the best ever to do it. It's hard to argue with 11 No. 1 albums—that's more than Elvis—and 50 million records sold worldwide. On top of all that, as a record exec—one worth around $450 million—he's helped usher in amazing artists like Kanye West, Rihanna and J. Cole. And let's just say his arm-candy game, whether he's escorting his wife or carrying his new baby, is top-notch as well. Click on to see the evolution of Jay-Z, from the streets of Bed-Stuy to the top of the world. —Alex Gale
(Photo: Jamie McCarthy/WireImage)
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