Mogul-rapper Jay-Z and Alicia Keys have officially premiered a inspirational music video on YouTube channel for their new collaboration and much-talked about New York City anthem, "Empire State of Mind," which was released as the third single from the rapper's latest #1 album "The Blueprint 3", and features guest vocals from vocalist and songwriter Keys. The song is an anthemic ode to Jay-Z's and Keys's native New York City, featuring sampling of "Love on a Two-Way Street" by The Moments. It also contains elements of electropop and orchestra pop. The song was first showcased live on-stage during the 26th annual 2009 MTV Video Music Awards on September 13, and also the duo stole the show during Game 2 of the 2009 MLB World Series at Yankee Stadium on Thursday night.In the midst of what could be the most detrimental Hip-Hop beef in his career, Jay-Z makes another powerhouse move. The highly anticipated clip for the hit record "Empire State of Mind" was directed by Hype Williams, filmed on October 1 in Harlem, Times Square and around Ground Zero of the Big Apple, and is artfully produced in black and white. The clip features both artists at their best and the imagery and cinematography is just as amazing as a result of Hype Williams direction. Not only highlights the majestic boroughs and surroundings of NYC for folks to visualize, but brings forth somewhat of a revitalization of the Empire state.
The joint track was produced by Shux and co-produced by Janet "Jnay" Sewell-Ulepic & Angela Hunte. The record features the dynamic vocals of R&B-soul songstress Keys, complimented with some choice words on life perspectives from Jay-Z himself. Some of his best collaborative work to date with vocalists. It's the city's image personified by Jay-Z's words, which manage to tap the core of those still wearing Timbs because, deep down, everyone wants to reach the level of opulence that he has. Jay-Z continues to redefine himself as the #1 Hip-Hop artist time and again, he just beat us there & seemingly left us behind. Yet, he reminds that he's still connected to the city that never sleeps by going back and describing the life that lives there day and night.
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