The List of Jay Z Albums in Order of Release
Jay-Z Albums in Order: Born on December 4, 1969, in New York City, Shawn Corey Carter, known professionally as Jay-Z, has left an indelible mark on the world of music and entrepreneurship.
Shawn Corey Carter, better known by his stage name Jay-Z, has solidified his position as a prominent figure in the world of music and entrepreneurship. This American rapper, record producer, and entrepreneur is widely acclaimed as one of the greatest rappers of all time, and his influence extends far beyond his own artistic achievements. Co-founding Roc-A-Fella Records in 1995, Jay-Z released his debut studio album, Reasonable Doubt, in 1996, which garnered critical acclaim and set the stage for a prolific musical career.
Over the years, he has released twelve additional albums, including iconic works like The Blueprint (2001), The Black Album (2003), and 4:44 (2017). Beyond his musical accomplishments, Jay-Z is also recognized for nurturing the careers of other notable artists, such as Kanye West, Rihanna, and J. Cole, contributing significantly to their creative and commercial success. Embracing the role of a visionary entrepreneur, Jay-Z founded Roc Nation and held prominent positions in the entertainment industry, including being the president and chief executive officer of Def Jam Recordings from 2004 to 2007. Through various ventures, he ventured into the worlds of fashion, hospitality, technology, and cannabis products, leading him to become the first hip-hop billionaire in 2019.
As of 2023, he reigns as the wealthiest musical artist globally, with a net worth of a staggering US$2.5 billion. His remarkable journey has been recognized with 24 Grammy Awards, numerous accolades, and a place on Time’s list of the “100 Most Influential People in the World” in 2013. His achievements have cemented Jay-Z’s legacy as a trailblazer in both the music industry and the world of business. So, if you are a die heart fan of Jay Z then check out here we have list of all Jay Z albums in order of release so far.
Jay Z Albums Available on: Apple Music
How many albums does Jay Z have?
The discography of American artist Jay-Z has released thirteen solo studio albums, five collaboration albums, one live album, one compilation album, one soundtrack album, two extended plays, one hundred and fifteen singles, nine promotional singles and eighty-two music videos.
All Jay Z Albums in Order: Check Out The List of Jay Z Albums in Order Here!
Here is the list of Jay Z Album in Order of Release Date
Studio albums:
- Reasonable Doubt — June 25, 1996
- In My Lifetime, Vol. 1 — November 4, 1997
- Vol. 2… Hard Knock Life — September 29, 1998
- Vol. 3… Life and Times of S. Carter — December 28, 1999
- The Dynasty: Roc La Familia — October 31, 2000
- The Blueprint — September 11, 2001
- The Blueprint2: The Gift & the Curse — November 12, 2002
- The Black Album — November 14, 2003
- Kingdom Come — November 21, 2006
- American Gangster — November 6, 2007
- The Blueprint 3 — September 8, 2009
- Magna Carta Holy Grail — July 9, 2013
- 4:44 — June 30, 2017
Collaborative albums:
- The Best of Both Worlds with R. Kelly — March 19, 2002
- Unfinished Business with R. Kelly — October 26, 2004
- Collision Course (with Linkin Park) — November 30, 2004
- Watch the Throne (with Kanye West) — August 8, 2011
- Everything Is Love with Beyoncé (as the Carters) — June 16, 2018
All Jay Z Albums List
Studio albums
1. Reasonable Doubt (1996)
Tracks
- Can’t Knock the Hustle
- Politics as Usual
- Brooklyn’s Finest
- Dead Presidents II
- Feelin’ It
- D’Evils
- 22 Two’s
- Can I Live
- Ain’t No Nigga
- Friend or Foe
- Coming of Age
- Cashmere Thoughts
- Bring It On
- Regrets
“Reasonable Doubt: Jay-Z’s debut studio album, released on June 25, 1996, via Priority Records and Roc-A-Fella Records, showcases his early brilliance. Produced by DJ Premier, Ski, Knobody, and Clark Kent, the album features guest appearances from artists like Memphis Bleek, Mary J. Blige, Jaz-O, and the Notorious B.I.G., capturing the essence of mafioso rap and raw narratives on hustling and material desires. The album debuted at number 23 on the US Billboard 200 and earned Platinum certification from the RIAA, selling 1.5 million copies in the US. Regarded as one of hip-hop’s finest works, it was later made available on digital and streaming platforms through Roc Nation’s Equity Distribution in August 2019.”
2. In My Lifetime, Vol. 1 (1997)
Tracks
- Intro / A Million And One Questions / Rhyme No More
- The City Is Mine
- I Know What Girls Like
- Imaginary Player
- Streets Is Watching
- Friend or Foe ’98
- Lucky Me
- (Always Be My) Sunshine
- Who You Wit II
- Face Off
- Real Niggaz
- Rap Game / Crack Game
- Where I’m From
- You Must Love Me
In My Lifetime, Vol. 1, Jay-Z’s second studio album, emerged on November 4, 1997, under Roc-A-Fella Records and Def Jam Recordings. Debuting at number three on the US Billboard 200 chart, the album swiftly earned Platinum certification from the RIAA, with over 138,000 copies sold in its first week. This release marked a poignant milestone for Jay-Z, as it followed the untimely passing of his fellow Brooklyn rapper and collaborator, The Notorious B.I.G., in March 1997. Representing a pivotal moment in his career, the album showcases Jay-Z’s continued evolution as an influential force in the rap industry.
3. Vol. 2… Hard Knock Life (1998)
Tracks
- Intro – Hand It Down
- Hard Knock Life (Ghetto Anthem)
- If I Should Die
- Ride or Die
- Nigga What, Nigga Who (Originator 99)
- Money, Cash, Hoes
- A Week Ago
- Coming of Age (Da Sequel)
- Can I Get A…
- Paper Chase
- Reservoir Dogs
- It’s Like That
- It’s Alright
- Money Ain’t a Thang
Vol. 2… Hard Knock Life is the third studio album by Jay-Z, released on September 29, 1998, under Roc-A-Fella Records and Def Jam Recordings. This album became Jay-Z’s pinnacle of commercial success, selling over 6 million copies in the US. In the liner notes, Jay-Z shares his insights into various tracks, providing a glimpse into his creative process. Notably, the album features the lyrics to the fast-paced track “Nigga What, Nigga Who (Originator 99).” With its exceptional sales and critical acclaim, Vol. 2… Hard Knock Life solidified Jay-Z’s position as a major force in the hip-hop industry.
4. Vol. 3… Life and Times of S. Carter (1999)
Tracks
- Hova Song (Intro)
- So Ghetto
- Do It Again (Put Ya Hands Up)
- Dope Man
- Things That U Do
- It’s Hot (Some Like It Hot)
- Snoopy Track
- S. Carter
- Pop 4 Roc
- Watch Me
- Big Pimpin’
- There’s Been a Murder
- Come and Get Me
- NYMP
- Hova Song (Outro)
- igga My Nigga
- Girl’s Best Friend
Vol. 3… Life and Times of S. Carter is Jay-Z’s fourth studio album, released on December 28, 1999, under Roc-A-Fella Records and Def Jam Recordings. USA Today’s Steve Jones praised it as a return to the street-oriented sound of Jay-Z’s debut album, Reasonable Doubt. The album showcased production from top talents such as Swizz Beatz, Timbaland, DJ Clue, and more. Critically acclaimed, it debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, selling 462,000 copies in its first week. With over three million copies sold, it earned triple platinum certification from the Recording Industry Association of America.
5. The Dynasty: Roc La Familia (2000)
Tracks
- Intro
- Change the Game
- I Just Wanna Love U (Give It 2 Me)
- Streets Is Talking
- This Can’t Be Life
- Get Your Mind Right Mami
- Stick 2 the Script
- You, Me, Him and Her
- Guilty Until Proven Innocent
- Parking Lot Pimpin’
- Holla
- 1-900-Hustler
- The R.O.C.
- Soon You’ll Understand
- Squeeze 1st
- Where Have You Been
The Dynasty: Roc-La-Familia, Jay-Z’s fifth studio album, showcases the talent of Roc-A-Fella Records signees and was released on October 31, 2000, by Roc-A-Fella Records and Def Jam Recordings. The album’s lead single, “I Just Wanna Love U (Give It 2 Me),” produced by the Neptunes, achieved tremendous success, reaching number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Making an explosive debut, the album claimed the top spot on the Billboard 200, selling an impressive 557,789 copies in its first week. Recognized for its excellence, the album received positive reviews from critics and earned a 2× Platinum certification from the RIAA. Billboard ranked it as the 20th highest-selling R&B/hip-hop album of the 2000-2010 decade.
6. The Blueprint (2001)
Tracks
- The Ruler’s Back
- Takeover
- Izzo (H.O.V.A.)
- Girls, Girls, Girls
- Jigga That Nigga
- U Don’t Know
- Hola’ Hovito
- Heart of the City (Ain’t No Love)
- Never Change
- Song Cry
- All I Need
- Renegade
- Blueprint (Momma Loves Me)
The Blueprint: Released on September 11, 2001, The Blueprint stands as the sixth studio album by esteemed American rapper Jay-Z. This highly anticipated release, produced under Roc-A-Fella Records and Def Jam Recordings, showcased a departure from Jay-Z’s previous work, embracing soul-based sampling and production by renowned artists such as Kanye West, Just Blaze, and Bink, alongside contributions from Timbaland, Trackmasters, and Eminem. Despite its release coinciding with the September 11 attacks, the album received universal acclaim, hailed for Jay-Z’s exceptional lyricism and its soulful soundscape. The Blueprint remains a pivotal work in hip-hop history, selling over 427,000 copies in its opening week and earning a 3x Multi-Platinum certification from the RIAA.
7. The Blueprint2: The Gift & the Curse (2002)
Tracks
- A Dream
- Hovi Baby
- The Watcher 2
- ’03 Bonnie & Clyde
- Excuse Me Miss
- What They Gonna Do
- All Around the World
- Poppin’ Tags
- Fuck All Nite
- The Bounce
- I Did It My Way
- Diamond Is Forever
- Guns & Roses
- U Don’t Know (Remix)
- Meet the Parents
- Some How Some Way
- Some People Hate
- Blueprint2
- Nigga Please
- 2 Many Hoes
- As One
- A Ballad for the Fallen Soldier
- Show You How
- Bitches & Sisters
- What They Gonna Do, Part II
The Blueprint 2: The Gift & the Curse, Jay-Z’s seventh studio album, was released on November 12, 2002, under Roc-A-Fella Records and Island Def Jam Music Group. Acting as a sequel to his acclaimed sixth album, The Blueprint (2001), it featured a vast collection of tracks later reissued for the album Blueprint 2.1 (2003). Despite its commercial success, debuting at number one with 545,000 first-week sales, Jay-Z himself deemed it as his second-worst album due to an excessive number of songs. Nevertheless, it achieved RIAA certification of 3x Multi-Platinum, solidifying its place in his extensive discography.
8. The Black Album (2003)
Tracks
- Interlude
- December 4th
- What More Can I Say
- Encore
- Change Clothes
- Dirt off Your Shoulder
- Threat
- Moment of Clarity
- 99 Problems
- Public Service Announcement (Interlude)
- Justify My Thug
- Lucifer
- Allure
- My 1st Song
The Black Album, Jay-Z’s eighth studio album, was released on November 14, 2003, through Roc-A-Fella Records and Def Jam Recordings. Marketed as his farewell album before retirement, the theme echoes throughout the tracks. However, Jay-Z returned to recording in 2005. The album boasts an impressive lineup of producers, including Just Blaze, Kanye West, The Neptunes, Eminem, DJ Quik, Timbaland, 9th Wonder, and Rick Rubin. Pharrell Williams also makes a guest appearance. Supported by a retirement tour, The Black Album produced hit singles like “99 Problems,” “Change Clothes,” and “Dirt off Your Shoulder.” Praised by critics and commercially successful, it topped the US Billboard 200 chart, selling 463,000 copies in the first week and earning triple platinum certification from the RIAA in 2005.
The album’s popularity also extended to the Mashup EP, Collision Course, where songs like “Encore,” “Dirt off Your Shoulder,” and “99 Problems” were featured alongside Linkin Park.
9. Kingdom Come (2006)
Tracks
- The Prelude
- Oh My God
- Kingdom Come
- Show Me What You Got
- Lost One
- Do U Wanna Ride
- 30 Something
- I Made It
- Anything
- Hollywood
- Trouble
- Dig a Hole
- Minority Report
- Beach Chair
Jay-Z’s ninth studio album, ‘Kingdom Come,’ emerged as a powerful ‘comeback album’ for the American rapper when it hit the airwaves on November 21, 2006. Following the promotion of his 2003 release, ‘The Black Album,’ as his final endeavor, this album marked his return to the forefront of the hip-hop scene. Boasting production from notable names such as Just Blaze, DJ Khalil, Dr. Dre, The Neptunes, Swizz Beatz, and Kanye West, ‘Kingdom Come’ featured guest appearances by John Legend, Beyoncé, Usher, Ne-Yo, and more. Despite receiving mixed reviews from critics, the album triumphed commercially, debuting at number one on the US Billboard 200 and earning Jay-Z a Best Rap Album nomination at the 50th Annual Grammy Awards.
10. American Gangster (2007)
Tracks
- Intro
- Pray
- American Dreamin’
- Hello Brooklyn 2.0
- No Hook
- Roc Boys (And the Winner Is)…
- Sweet
- I Know
- Party Life
- Ignorant Shit
- Say Hello
- Success
- Fallin’
- Blue Magic
American Gangster, Jay-Z’s tenth studio album, was a concept masterpiece inspired by the 2007 film of the same name. Released on November 6, the album features top-notch production from Diddy & the Hitmen, Just Blaze, and the Neptunes, among others. With guest appearances by Beanie Sigel, Lil Wayne, Pharrell, and Nas, the album brilliantly captures the essence of 1970s soul and funk, incorporating instruments played by skilled musicians and unconventional percussions. Themed around the gangster lifestyle, the American Dream, and Jay-Z’s Brooklyn upbringing, it received widespread critical acclaim, hailed as a return to his best form. Commercially, it stormed the charts, debuting at number one on the US Billboard 200, solidifying Jay-Z’s status as a musical legend.
11. The Blueprint 3 (2009)
Tracks
- What We Talkin’ About
- Thank You
- D.O.A. (Death of Auto-Tune)
- Run This Town
- Empire State of Mind
- Real as It Gets
- On to the Next One
- Off That
- A Star Is Born
- Venus vs. Mars
- Already Home
- Hate
- Reminder
- So Ambitious
- Young Forever
The Blueprint 3, Jay-Z’s eleventh studio album, hit the music scene on September 8, 2009, under Roc Nation, distributed by Asylum Records and Atlantic Records. As the third installment in the Blueprint series, it followed the successes of The Blueprint (2001) and The Blueprint2: The Gift & The Curse (2002). Produced by a talented lineup including Kanye West, No I.D., The Neptunes, and more, the album featured collaborations with artists like Rihanna, Drake, Kid Cudi, and Alicia Keys. Boasting six hit singles, such as “D.O.A. (Death of Auto-Tune)” and “Empire State of Mind,” the album achieved both critical acclaim and commercial triumph. Debuting at number one on the US Billboard 200 chart, it sold an impressive 476,000 copies in its first week, solidifying Jay-Z’s legacy as a chart-topping artist. Additionally, the album garnered multiple Grammy wins, making it a significant milestone in his illustrious career.
12. Magna Carta Holy Grail (2013)
Tracks
- Holy Grail
- Picasso Baby
- Tom Ford
- Fuckwithmeyouknowigotit
- Oceans
- F.U.T.W.
- Somewhereinamerica
- Crown
- Heaven
- Versus
- Part II (On the Run)
- Beach Is Better
- BBC
- JAY Z Blue
- La Familia
- Nickels and Dimes
Magna Carta Holy Grail (alternatively written and stylized as Magna Carta… Holy Grail) stands as Jay-Z’s twelfth studio album, released on July 8, 2013, by Roc Nation, Roc-A-Fella, and Universal Music Distribution. Initially, the album was offered as a free digital download to Samsung customers via the Jay-Z Magna Carta app on July 4, 2013. Boasting an impressive lineup of guest appearances, including Justin Timberlake, Nas, Rick Ross, Frank Ocean, and Beyoncé, the album’s production was primarily helmed by Timbaland and Jerome “J-Roc” Harmon, with contributions from other notable producers. Despite mixed reviews from critics, the album achieved commercial success, with three hit singles, “Holy Grail,” “Tom Ford,” and “Part II (On the Run),” featuring Beyoncé, and debuted at number one on the US Billboard 200 chart.
13. 4:44 (2017)
Tracks
- Kill Jay Z
- The Story of O.J.
- Smile
- Caught Their Eyes
- “4:44”
- Family Feud
- Bam
- Moonlight
- Marcy Me
- Legacy
- Adnis
- Blue’s Freestyle / We Family
- ManyFacedGod
4:44 is the thirteenth studio album by esteemed American rapper Jay-Z, released on June 30, 2017, exclusively for Sprint and Tidal customers under his Roc Nation label. The album, produced primarily by No I.D., featured guest appearances from artists like Beyoncé, Frank Ocean, and Damian Marley, as well as vocal contributions from his daughter, Blue Ivy Carter, and others. Devoid of any pre-release singles, 4:44 was acclaimed for its deeply personal and emotional content. It debuted at number one on the US Billboard 200, marking Jay-Z’s 14th chart-topping album. Although part of a Sprint-Tidal partnership, the planned series of exclusives never fully materialized due to Sprint’s eventual demise. Despite this, 4:44 earned platinum certification in recognition of one million free downloads provided to consumers by Sprint. At the 60th Annual Grammy Awards, the album received multiple nominations, including Album of the Year.
Collaborative albums
1. The Best of Both Worlds with R. Kelly (2002)
Tracks
- The Best of Both Worlds
- Take You Home With Me
- Break Up to Make Up
- It Ain’t Personal
- The Streets
- Green Light
- Naked (R. Kelly solo)
- Shake Ya Body
- Somebody’s Girl
- Get This Money
- Shorty
- Honey
- Pussy
The Best of Both Worlds, the debut collaborative album by Jay-Z and R. Kelly, was released on March 19, 2002, under Roc-A-Fella, The Island Def Jam Music Group, Rockland Records, and Jive Records. The album’s production was primarily led by R. Kelly, Poke, and Tone, with contributions from Megahertz and Charlemagne. Featuring guest appearances by Beanie Siegel, Lil’ Kim, and Devin the Dude, the album spawned three singles: “Honey,” “Get This Money,” and “Take You Home with Me a.k.a. Body.” Although receiving mixed reviews from critics, the album was a commercial success, debuting at number two on the US Billboard 200 chart and selling 223,000 copies in its first week.
2. Unfinished Business with R. Kelly (2004)
Tracks
- The Return
- Big Chips
- We Got ‘Em Goin
- She’s Coming Home with Me
- Feelin’ You in Stereo
- Stop
- Mo’ Money
- Pretty Girls
- Break Up (That’s All We Do)
- Don’t Let Me Die
- The Return (Remix)
Unfinished Business marked the final collaboration between renowned American rapper Jay-Z and acclaimed singer R. Kelly, releasing worldwide on October 26, 2004. The album, distributed by Jive Records and Island Def Jam Music Group in the US and Canada, featured unreleased tracks from their 2002 joint album, ‘The Best of Both Worlds,’ with slight additions. The project was accompanied by the tension-fueled ‘Best of Both Worlds’ concert tour, culminating in R. Kelly’s removal after alleged erratic behavior and a dispute with Jay-Z. Despite criticism for repetitive lyrics, the album attained commercial success, debuting at number one on the US Billboard 200 chart and achieving platinum status by the RIAA in December 2004.
3. Collision Course (with Linkin Park) (2004)
Tracks
- Dirt off Your Shoulder / Lying from You
- Big Pimpin’ / Papercut
- Jigga What / Faint
- Numb/Encore
- Izzo / In the End
- Points of Authority / 99 Problems / One Step Closer
Collision Course is a groundbreaking collaborative EP uniting American rapper Jay-Z and rock band Linkin Park, released on November 30, 2004, under Roc-A-Fella, Machine Shop, Warner Bros., and Def Jam records. The fusion showcases three tracks from Linkin Park’s Meteora and four from Hybrid Theory, along with selections from Jay-Z’s The Black Album, Vol. 3: Life and Times of S. Carter, Vol. 2… Hard Knock Life, and The Blueprint. Inspired by Danger Mouse’s The Grey Album, MTV expanded the project from a few mash-ups to a six-song album, recorded primarily by Mike Shinoda and Jay-Z over three days in July. Despite mixed reviews, the EP debuted atop the US Billboard 200, selling 368,000 copies in its first week and produced the Grammy-winning single “Numb/Encore.”
4. Watch the Throne with Kanye West (2011)
Tracks
- No Church in the Wild
- Lift Off
- Niggas in Paris
- Otis
- Gotta Have It
- New Day
- That’s My Bitch
- Welcome to the Jungle
- Who Gon Stop Me
- Murder to Excellence
- Made in America
- Why I Love You
Watch the Throne: Jay-Z and Kanye West, collectively known as The Throne, joined forces for their collaborative studio album released on August 8, 2011, through Roc-A-Fella Records, Roc Nation, and Def Jam Recordings. Initially planned as a five-song EP, the project evolved into a full-length album featuring guest appearances from artists like Beyoncé and Frank Ocean, as well as samples from soul legends Otis Redding and Curtis Mayfield. With dense production led by Kanye West and a host of acclaimed producers, Watch the Throne blended orchestral and progressive rock influences with braggadocious lyrics, exploring themes of opulence, success, and socioeconomic critique. The album received widespread acclaim from critics and debuted atop the US Billboard 200, setting records and earning quintuple platinum certification in the United States.
5. Everything Is Love with Beyoncé (as the Carters) (2018)
Tracks
- Summer
- Apeshit
- Boss
- Nice
- 713
- Friends
- Heard About Us
- Black Effect
- LoveHappy
Everything Is Love, the debut studio album by the musical duo the Carters, comprising power couple Beyoncé Knowles-Carter and Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter, captivated audiences when it hit the scene on June 16, 2018. Released under Parkwood Entertainment, Sony Music Entertainment, S.C Enterprises, and Roc Nation, the album showcases their joint production skills, enlisting the talents of collaborators such as Cool & Dre, Boi-1da, and Pharrell Williams. Featuring guest appearances from artists like Quavo, Offset, and Ty Dolla Sign, the hip hop and R&B masterpiece delves into themes of love, fame, wealth, and black pride. Initially exclusive to Tidal, the album’s widespread release followed the announcement during an On the Run II Tour performance in London. Earning accolades, it claimed the Best Urban Contemporary Album award at the 61st Annual Grammy Awards.
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