Jay-Z is a made man today worth a billion dollars, but it all began 25 years ago when he released debut album “Reasonable Doubt”.
To commemorate the occasion, Jay-Z has announced details of his first ever NFT. The NFT, created in collaboration with artist Derrick Adams, is called ‘Heir To The Throne’, the original title for the New York rapper’s legendary debut album that came out on June 25, 1996.
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Ironically, on June 18th, Roca-Fella Records and Jay Z sued Damon Dash claiming that he was attempting to sell virtual ownership of the copyright to the rapper’s 1996 debut album.
NFT, Adams explained the reason for the business venture: “Over the years JAY has collected and supported my work, and so this collaboration is particularly fulfilling. With this NFT project, we jointly embrace the opportunity to further the conversation about how artists of different mediums contribute to a more inclusive society.
“Jay’s album ‘Reasonable Doubt’ changed the game 25 years ago, and continues to influence so many of us. It tells the story of someone from Brooklyn occupying the urban space — a place that is as central to my own work as it is to his. My portraits aim to capture the sensibility, optimism and beauty of urban life, and in JAY’s work I’ve found tremendous kinship.”
The drama surrounding the classic album also saw Jay-Z has reportedly filing a lawsuit against the photographer who shot the artwork to his debut album, alleging that he’s been using his name and image without permission.
In legal documents seen by TMZ, the rapper claims that Jonathan Mannion – who shot the ‘Reasonable Doubt’ cover – has used his name and likeness to sell merchandise and other photos on his website.
