(AllHipHop News) Shawn “Jay Z” Carter made history by becoming the first Hip Hop artist to be inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
Several musicians and a former president of the United States honored Jay’s accomplishment by providing statements to Tidal.
“I like to think Mr. Carter and I understand each other. Nobody who met us as younger men would have expected us to be where we are today,” stated Barack Obama. “We know what it’s like not to have a father around. We know what it’s like not to come from much and to know people who didn’t get the same breaks that we did. So we tried to prop open those doors of opportunity so it’s a little easier for those who come up behind us to succeed as well.”
Hov also received congratulations from his fellow rap music legends.
“Jay Z’s contribution to music as a writer is pivotal. You can hear his wit and hustle stylings in the backbones of some of the biggest and respected artists of today,” said Andre 3000. “But even more importantly, he has verbally taught new generations how to understand their personal worth and create opportunities for others around them.”
The god emcee Rakim added, “For the last 20 years, Jay Z has personified not only our Hip Hop culture, but the Definition of True Lyricism. He remains a prolific MC getting my respect both in the booth and the boardroom. When he receives these accolades, know they’re just the firsts of many he’s due.”
“Jay is a top-tier emcee, rapper, lyricist, songwriter, and artist. It’s only right he be in the Hall of Fame. In this game there will never be too many,” offered Nas.
Quincy Jones, Bono, Nicki Minaj, Alicia Key, Swizz Beatz, Chance The Rapper, Jay Electronica, Chuck D, Common, Kirk Franklin, Pharrell Williams, Rick Ross, Scarface, Jon Bon Jovi, Jill Scott, Timbaland, and more provided comments about Jay’s induction as well.
The Roc Nation boss also acknowledged the many performers that have inspired him by shouting them out on Twitter.
In addition, Jay created a “Songwriting Hall Of Fame” playlist on Tidal.
The list features songs by Nas, OutKast, Eric B & Rakim, The Notorious B.I.G., Eminem, 2Pac, Lauryn Hill, Kanye West, Mos Def, Public Enemy, N.W.A, and Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five.
To check out the “Skill Recognizes Skill” article featuring all the artists’ statements about Jay Z joining the Songwriters Hall of Fame visit tidal.com.
Influential artists from Andre 3000 to Rakim talk about the impact @S_C_’s writing has had on…everything https://t.co/IlpBkun8B3 #SHOF2017 pic.twitter.com/IXobSi45Ft
— TIDAL (@TIDALHiFi) June 15, 2017
