Jay-Z: Reasonable Doubt (1996). The First Diamond in "The Dynasty"

B. Cox and J. Owe discuss Jay-Z's now-classic debut Reasonable Doubt as it turns 25. The album released on his, Dame Dash and Kareem "Biggs" Burke label Roc-A-Fella Records, was the first building block on what would become a dynasty in the hip-hop industry. While initially hailed as a solid to dope project upon its release, the project's acclaim only grew as his standing as one of the greatest emcees was confirmed through increased critical and commercial success in the new millenium. As Jay-Z's profile grew, so did the profile of his debut, which in the 25 years since its release, is now considered ahead of it time and among the greatest hip-hop albums of all-time.

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Show notes:

Albumism: Jay-Z's Debut Album 'Reasonable Doubt' Turns 25 | Anniversary Retrospective

https://www.albumism.com/features/jay-z-debut-album-reasonable-doubt-turns-25-anniversary-retrospective

The Ringer: Reflecting on 25 Years of Jay-Z's 'Reasonable Doubt'

https://www.theringer.com/2021/6/24/22548278/reflecting-on-25-years-jay-z-reasonable-doubt

Tidal: Coming of Age: Jay-Z's 'Reasonable Doubt' @ 25

https://tidal.com/magazine/article/reasonable-doubt-25/1-79555

The Independent (UK): Jay-Z's Reasonable Doubt at 25: A glamarous, gritty portrait of unrelenting grind

https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/music/features/jay-z-reasonable-doubt-b1867976.html

Consequence of Sound: 25 Years of Reasonable Doubt: How Jay-Z Became Capitalism's Old Testament

https://consequence.net/2021/06/jay-z-reasonable-doubt-25-year-anniversary/