Jay-Z's "Izzo (H.O.V.A.)" Remains A Defining Moment In His Career

Jay-Z's "The Blueprint" turns 20 years old today.

BYAlexander Cole
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Image via Jay-ZImage via Jay-Z

Jay-Z is highly regarded as one of the greatest rappers of all time and for good reason. Throughout his historic career, he has dropped numerous classic albums, including The Blueprint which was one of his first introductions to the mainstream world. While Jay-Z had built a solid catalog prior to The Blueprint, it took a while before his songs would become chart-topping hits. Today, the album is turning 20 years old and fans are reflecting on the impact this album had on the hip-hop world.

You can't mention The Blueprint without talking about the track "Izzo (H.O.V.A.) which was Jay's first-ever top 10 track on the Billboard charts. With this song, Jay talks about drug dealing and the perils of the music industry. The track is incredibly catchy as it offers up some focused flows as well as a hook that references one of Jay's many nicknames. It is a track that showcases Jay's abilities when it comes to writing and wordplay, and if you're a hip-hop fan, the impact of the song is undeniable.

Tell us your favorite track from The Blueprint, in the comments below.z

Quotable Lyrics:

Can't leave rap alone, the game needs me
Haters want me clapped in chrome, it ain't easy
Cops want to knock me, D.A. wants to box me in
But somehow, I beat them charges like Rocky


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About The Author
Alexander Cole is the current Managing Editor of HotNewHipHop. He started at HotNewHipHop back in 2018 where he began as a Sports and Sneakers writer. During this time, he has shown an expertise in Air Jordans, Yeezys, and all things that have to do with Nike. His favorite kicks are the Air Jordan 1 High OG, the Air Jordan 4, the Air Jordan 6, and the Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 V2 in the "Beluga 2.0" colorway. Although his collection might not be the biggest, he is always looking to add new styles to it. When it comes to sports, Alex has a particular interest in the NBA and the NFL. His favorite teams are anywhere LeBron goes, and the Kansas City Chiefs. As a Montrealer, the Montreal Canadiens hold a special place in his heart, even if they haven't won the Stanley Cup in his lifetime. Alex also works for the Concordia Stingers, where he provides play-by-play and color commentary for the football, hockey, and basketball teams His favorite hip-hop artists are Kendrick Lamar, Playboi Carti, Travis Scott, and Lil Uzi Vert.