Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter has had quite a career thus far. Since debuting in 1996 with hip-hop classic Reasonable Doubt, he has sold over 50 million records worldwide. He’s parlayed his musical success into lucrative businesses in the realms of fashion, cuisine and advertising (for more, check out my new Jay-Z book, which hits stores next week). Last year he earned $63 million, tops among hip-hop artists for the third time in four years.

According to multiple overseas sources, Lil Wayne must cancel upcoming shows in Europe and the United Kingdom after he was denied a visa due to a recent firearms conviction.



While currently touring the U.S. on his I Am Still Music trek, Weezy was set to embark overseas for a smattering of dates and summer festivals to coincide with the release of his ninth studio album, 'Tha Carter IV,' in May.

The recently appointed EVP of A&R at Def Jam says that Hov is already working on new material.



Though he just released his collaborative album Watch the Throne with Kanye West, Jay-Z is already recording new music. According to producer No I.D., Hov has "started again" on laying down fresh material, but that he's unclear if it's for a new album.