#SaturdaySeven Vol. 7- 4:44
Each Saturday we break down the top seven of something, based completely on subjective, opinionated criteria
I apologize. I was blinded. My Stan-like behavior for all things JAY-Z put my usual clarity in a compromised state. On July 4th, 2013, Hov released Magna Carta Holy Grail…and I thought it was a good album. I recall working the night before its Samsung-only release date, rushing home to my laptop, where I knew a bootleg copy of the record awaited. I began listening, making scrunched hip-hop faces and nodding my head to the Timbaland soundscapes. I went on social media and defended the album to the death. I told anyone that would listen “THIS IS GOOD, HOW DARE YOU DISRESPECT THE GOAT?!”
I apologize. I was wrong. MCHG was not a good album. This factoid became crystal clear two nights ago, when I listened to 4:44. JAY-Z’s latest release is a great album, but more importantly, it’s important. It’s honest, urgent, comedic and basically everything I rambled about earlier this week. It is a collection of thoughts and anecdotes from an inspired artist whose age is only truncated by his wisdom. It is everything the luxury rap musings of MCHG was not.
When five is not enough and ten is too many, I present the seventh weekly installment of #SaturdaySeven. This is less a “ranking” than just a list of handpicked favorites, but #7 will always be considered the “top.” The lists will frequently be somewhat random and niche. You can find last week’s list here. Up next: Top Songs from 4:44
JUST missed: “Kill Jay Z” (a solid introduction to the project that also let off a few shots toward Kanye West and Future), “Moonlight” (“We stuck in La La Land/even when we win we gon’ lose” on a song with this title is tremendous; young rappers will want to skip this one) and “Legacy” (it’s gonna be wild when Blue Ivy Carter is President in 2056)
- “Caught Their Eyes” featuring Frank Ocean One of the bouncier No I.D. contributions to the album, with one of the best basslines, JAY-Z floats effortlessly while discussing, well, eyes and Prince’s estate. Frank is the perfect complement with an ill telephone effect over his hook.
2. “Bam” featuring Damian Marley The sample has been hijacked infinite times, but expect this song to ring off for the duration of the summer. Perhaps another Kanye slanderous take included in here?
3. “The Story of O.J.” Before finishing this list, go watch the video. It is beyond incredible. Few rappers can so casually offer discourse on race, real estate investing, wealth empowerment all while chuckling throughout.
4. “Family Feud” featuring ad libs from Mrs. Carter “Nobody wins when the family feuds.” This record probably has the most one-liners on the album and Hov is completely in the pocket over an amazing vocal sample.
5. “Smile” featuring Gloria Carter This will be the favorite song on the album for many and it’s hard to debate against it. The minimalist production allows Jay to explore so much emotional space and it is well-constructed. His mother’s words punctuate the end of the record beautifully.
6. “Marcy Me” Depending on the day of the week, this could easily be #7. Jay takes us on a nostalgic journey through his previous home and the vibe, wordplay, and cadence are immaculate.
*SEVEN* “4:44” Did JAY-Z cheat on the hottest chick in the game who also happens to don his chain? Only they know for sure, but Hov certainly does an incredible job apologizing. The title track is instantly one of the best records ever made by the best rapper to ever do it. No I.D. was exceptional producing the entire project, but this beat is his crown jewel. The blending of an ultra-soulful vocal sample and perfectly looped horn blasts layered over the best drums on the album is a masterpiece.
JAY-Z accomplishes the tricky feat of making an emotionally available record without coming across as emo or whiny. The authenticity in his tone is undeniable and sincere. In the past 16 months we have received Lemonade and this album — think about that. I wish Jay and Bey nothing but the best, but the worst parts of their lives elevated their music to another echelon.
