Opinion

How JAY-Z’s “The Story Of O.J.” Visual & Record Woke The Hood Up

It’s not easy creating a classic, but somehow Jay-Z does it everytime, this time with “The Story Of O.J.” A powerful record, Jay Z delivers unapologetic messages to the B.L.A.C.K community. Unlike most pop records, hiphop or commercial records, this record is clearly for US, not the US.

Jay Z woke the hood up. A smart man he is, this Sean Carter, for he knew the ones in the hood (short for neighborhood often referred to urban areas) who seldom read the news papers, watch the news stations, or read the (real) history books, would purchase this album. So instead of complaining about the standard way of doing things, Jay Z put it in a record, knowing the hood would listen, and we did!

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The visuals to “The Story Of O.J.” were masterfully created giving reference to black and white film, classic toons, classic coons, and historic moments. If the lyrics weren’t powerful enough, Jay Z and his team of creators dove head first in imagery showing lynching, degradation, segregation and more all surfaced around his home city.

“You wanna know what’s more important than throwin’ away money at a strip club? Credit You ever wonder why Jewish people own all the property in America? This how they did it

Using a sample of Nina Simone’s (who makes an appearance in the video) record “Four Women” adds to the depth of the piece. It’s a timeless record with one of the dopest beats any rapper has ever cleared. With lyrics speaking to the misguided ways of culture, giving lessons to a better day, and creating the new cool, Jay Z is legend.

Not only did this record wake us up, but many are listening, some even admitted to crying because of the depth of this record (view comments section on Youtube). How many songs do you know can inspire in that way?