NEWSOK! Old School: Jay-Z's 8 Most Famous Songs Before He Was Mr. Beyonce Knowles
Before collaborating with Rihanna, Kanye West, Justin Timberlake and Alicia Keys and before he married Beyonce, Jay-Z was doing just fine on his own, musically speaking. His music dates back to the early 90's, when most of his current-day fans were like, barely babies! Crazy, right? Today, Mr. Carter turns 44, and today, we look back at his best songs of yesteryear. And you thought "Holy Grail" was Sean Carter's best song ever? Psh.
Everyone in 5th grade couldn't stop singing "Bounce with me, bounce with me" at all times. Fact.
youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iFO-JdGt5_U&w=480&h=360
It's weird that Jay-Z had a song and album called "Hard Knock Life," because now, he's composing the music for the 2014 movie-version of Annie. Full circle, guys.
youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zxtn6-XQupM&w=640&h=360
Want OK! each day? Sign up here!
"N**** What, N**** Who" reminds me a lot of Dr. Dre's "Forgot About Dre." I just love this song so much despite the super foul language.
youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CtGGDAd20ec&w=480&h=360
Did Jay-Z invent the term, "pimpin'?" Might as well have. This song is a masterpiece.
youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cgoqrgc_0cM&w=480&h=360
The greatest movie moment of 2013 was when The Great Gatsby featured a split second of Jay-Z's classic hit, "Izzo," in the film. This song still holds up.
youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1tWmyPMf3wU&w=640&h=360
OK! Old School: The Best Moments From the 9/9/99 MTV VMAs
Sure, Beyonce was in this picture at this point, but this song is pre-wedding. Still counts as an amazing classic Jay jam.
youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=copiznIfV3E&w=480&h=360
Try listening to this song and not doing that hand-motion where you brush your shoulder off. You can't because IT'S IMPOSSIBLE.
youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oz_-VaTHpc8&w=480&h=360
If you don't love "99 Problems," I feel bad for you, son.
youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OEHSRgwvbcI&w=480&h=360
Photos: 11 Pop Stars Who Collaborated With Their Significant Others
What's your all-time favorite Jay Z song? What are your bday wishes for him this year? Tweet us @OKMagazine.
