Decoded

, Jay Z

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Published by Virgin Books, part of Ebury Publishing

Format: Paperback

£18.99

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Details

EAN: 9780753540565
Published: 3 Nov 2011

About the book

Synopsis

Updated with 3 new songs, this is the intimate, first-person chronicle of the life and work of Jay-Z, born Shawn Carter in Brooklyn's notorious Marcy Projects, now known to many as the greatest rapper alive.

Told through lyrics, images and personal narrative, Decoded shares the story of Jay-Z's life through the 10 codes that define him, giving an unparalleled insight into his background, influences and the artistic process that shapes his work. Each chapter features a highly personal narrative section followed by a visually captivating selection of his most famous and provocative lyrics underlining the chapter's themes, along with Jay-Z's own 'decoding' of each lyric, uncovering the wordplay and stories behind the song.

This is a brilliant insight into the art and poetry of hip-hop, as well as the life of one of the genre's greatest artists.

Press

What the critics say

People don't just expect new records from Jay - they expect epochal events, game-changing statements
- Rolling Stone

Hip-hop's undisputed king
- The Times

The most successful rapper alive
- Guardian

The undisputed king of rap
- NME

Gripping...a classily produced mash-up of memoir, lyrical analysis and coffee-table art book..this book is eye-opening...Both fans and newcomers alike should be left with a deepened appreciation for the verbal dexterity of a conflicted man
- The Daily Telegraph

A riveting insight
- The News of the World

A must-read for anyone seeking insight into why hip hop has been the essential musical narrative of recent decades
- Daily Telegraph

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