I've enjoyed some of Jay-Z's stuff in the past, but have been skeptical about, and somewhat turned off by all of the Jay-Z hype. When I gave this cd a listen, I was extremely impressed and then understood all of the hype. It is well deserved. This cd is outstanding. I especially appreciate the deep, sincere, heartfelt expression about past family life and hardships (especially from Beanie and Jay). I very much respect that, and I feel it. I like that they are not afraid to express their pain and disappointments. After all, music is a form of expression. They are not afraid to show that they have a heart, and have feelings too. I was especially touched by Beanie's rap about his father. It is deep and very moving. Great work! Finally, I greatly appreciate the edited cd version. I love rap/hip-hop, and purchase a lot of it, but I always prefer the clean versions. So, I hope that rap/hip-hop will always offer clean versions. I am a supporter of that. No matter how much I may like someone (M.O.P., Short Khop, Mac Mall, Missy, Daz, DPG), if they don't offer a clean version I won't buy it.

It is a tight cd and I really would recommend this cd.It may be edited but it is still really tight.I have always liked edited versions over un-edited versions because it is better.Jay-Z has always been my favorite and I hope you think the same thing.

This is a great cd to buy for numerous reasons like if you like rap or just Jay-Z. I gave it four stars because the explicit lyrics cd is better.