How Jay-Z Overcame Failure and Achieved Success

Jay-Z is an American rapper, record producer, and entrepreneur.

He has 3.6 million YouTube subscribers and a $2.5 billion net worth.

Here are 4 lessons from his success.

1. You have to start somewhere

Jay-Z’s journey began as Big Daddy Kane’s hype man. He mainly performed when Big Daddy Kane left the stage to go change outfits. The lesson here is to do whatever is needed to make progress. Don’t be ashamed or embarrassed if you are not where you want to be yet. As long as you are moving forward, you’re on the right track.


Photo by PjayOfficial

2. Take matters into your own hands

After getting rejected by every single record label, Jay-Z sold burned CDs out of his car and created his own label Roc-A-Fella Records in 1995. He then released his debut album “Reasonable Doubt” which sold 420k copies in the first year. Thus, you should always take matters into your own hands when life doesn’t give you a break.


Photo by Rwoan

3. Do things your way

Jay-Z doesn’t write down his lyrics. This is kind of crazy. Instead he just memorizes everything and sings from the top of his head. Thus, if you have your own creative process then dont listen to people who tell you to change it. Follow what works for you even if it’s unconventional.


Photo by Yeshe

4. Be creative

Jay-Z achieved mainstream success after he released his 1998 song “Hard Knock Life.” The song is actually derived from the 1982 movie “Annie”. He got the idea after watching it on TV. He even reached out to the “Annie” franchise and got the relevant permissions to use the CHORUS. Thus, use everything as inspiration for your content.


Photo by Mikamote

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