Jay Z - Vol. 2...Hard Knock Life

Coming on the heels of two strong records that revealed the extent of Jay Z's talents, Vol. 2: Hard Knock Life (it may be titled Vol. 2, but it's his third album, arguably his fourth if you count the Streets Is Watching soundtrack). Jay Z had established himself as a savvy, street-smart rapper on those two records, but with Hard Knock Life he decides to shoot for crossover territory, for better and for worse. At his best, he shows no fear witness how the title track shamelessly works a Broadway showstopper from Annie into a raging ghetto cry, yet keeps it smooth enough for radio. It's a stunning single, Jay Z remains a first-rate lyricist and MC, but too often his subjects are tired, especially since he winds up with no new revelations. Unfortunately, the same could be said for his music. For every "Hard Knock Life," there are a couple of standard post-gangsta jams that don't catch hold. Released September 29, 1998 on Roc A Fella/Def Jam Records, the album peaked at #1 on the Billboard 200 chart and #1 on the Top R&B/Hip Hop Albums and it was certified 5x platinum by RIAA.

''Hand It Down (Intro)'' (feat. Pain In Da Ass & Memphis Bleek) (Produced By. DJ Premier) 2:56

''Hard Knock Life (Ghetto Anthem)'' (Produced By. Mark The 45 King) 3:58

''If I Should Die'' (feat. Da Ranjahz) (Produced By. Swizz Beatz) 4:55

''Ride Or Die'' (Produced By. Steven ''Stevie J'' Jordan) 4:48

''Nigga What, Nigga Who (Originator '99)'' (feat. Jaz O & Amil) (Produced By. Timbaland) 3:53

''Money, Cash, Hoes'' (feat. DMX) (Produced By. Swizz Beatz) 4:46

''A Week Ago'' (feat. Too Short) (Produced By. J Runnah) 5:00

''Coming Of Age (Da Sequel)'' (feat. Memphis Bleek) (Produced By. Swizz Beatz) 4:21

''Can I Get A...'' (feat. Ja Rule & Amil) (Produced By. Irv Gotti & Lil' Rob) 5:09

''Paper Chase'' (feat. Foxy Brown) (Produced By. Timbaland) 4:34

''Reservoir Dogs'' (feat. L.O.X., Beanie Sigel & Sauce Money) (Produced By. Erick Sermon & Darold Trotter) 5:19

''It's Like That'' (feat. Kid Capri) (Produced By. Kid Capri) 3:45

''It's Alright'' (feat. Memphis Bleek) (Produced By. Dame Dash & Mahogany Music) 4:01

''Money Ain't A Thang'' (feat. Jermaine Dupri) (Produced By. Jermaine Dupri) 4:13


http://www.mediafire.com/?znzjntyz0dj

(if you like what you hear GO OUT AND PURCHASE the album cuz if its good music its worth it)