Early Life and Education of Jay-Z: A Complete Timeline

Discover the defining moments in the early life of Jay-Z. From birth to education, explore key events.

Jay-Z, born Shawn Corey Carter, is a highly influential American rapper, businessman, and record executive. Celebrated for his intricate lyrical style, characterized by double entendres and wordplay, his music often chronicles a rags-to-riches journey. Billboard and Vibe named him the greatest rapper of all time in 2023. He held the position of president and CEO of Def Jam Recordings from 2004 to 2007. In 2008, he established Roc Nation, a prominent entertainment company.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Controversies & Scandals

December 4, 1969: Shawn Corey Carter's birth

On December 4, 1969, Shawn Corey Carter, who is professionally known as Jay-Z, was born in Brooklyn, New York City.

1982: Shooting his brother

In 1982, at age 12, Jay-Z shot his older brother Eric in the shoulder for stealing his jewelry.

1994: Alleged Stop by NYPD

According to his song "99 Problems", in 1994, Jay-Z was allegedly stopped by an NYPD detective while en route to I-95.

1997: Reference to shooting his brother in a song

Jay-Z references shooting his older brother Eric in the shoulder in 1982 in the song "You Must Love Me", which was released in 1997.

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2003: Reconciliation with Father

In 2003, Jay-Z reconciled with his father, Adnis Reeves, prior to his father's death.

2003: Establishment of the Shawn Carter Foundation

In 2003, Jay-Z, along with his mother, founded the Shawn Carter Foundation, which assists eligible students facing socio-economic hardships attend and get through college.

2005: End of Feud with Nas

By 2005, Jay-Z and Nas had ended their feud, reportedly with the help of record producer Mark Pitts.

August 2006: Jay-Z Pledges to Raise Awareness of Global Water Shortage

In August 2006, Jay-Z met with Kofi Annan at the United Nations headquarters in New York City and pledged to use his upcoming world tour to raise awareness of the global water shortage.

November 2006: MTV Airs Documentary Diary of Jay-Z: Water for Life

In November 2006, MTV aired the documentary Diary of Jay-Z: Water for Life, which highlighted Jay-Z's efforts to raise awareness of the global water shortage.

2006: Public Service Announcement Denouncing Racism and Anti-Semitism

In 2006, Jay-Z appeared with Russell Simmons in a public service announcement denouncing racism and anti-Semitism, sponsored by the Foundation for Ethnic Understanding.

2006: Enstoolment as Sarkin Waka of Kwara

In 2006, Jay-Z was enstooled as the Sarkin Waka of Kwara in the Nigerian chieftaincy system.

April 4, 2008: Marriage to Beyoncé

On April 4, 2008, Jay-Z and Beyoncé Knowles were married in a private ceremony in Tribeca, New York City.

April 22, 2008: Public Record of Relationship

On April 22, 2008, Jay-Z and Beyoncé's relationship became a matter of public record.

June 2008: Obama Praises Jay-Z's Thinking

In June 2008, Barack Obama praised Jay-Z's thinking and talent, indicating that Jay-Z can help shape attitudes in a real positive way.

September 5, 2008: Beyoncé Debuts Wedding Ring

On September 5, 2008, Beyoncé publicly debuted her US$5 million Lorraine Schwartz-designed wedding ring at the Fashion Rocks concert.

2010: Jay-Z Appears in HeadCount Advertisement

During the 2010 mid-term elections, Jay-Z appeared with other artists in a HeadCount advertisement, urging voters, especially younger ones, to register and vote.

2011: Pregnancy Announcement

At the 2011 MTV Video Music Awards, Beyoncé revealed that she was pregnant with their first child.

January 7, 2012: Birth of Blue Ivy Carter

On January 7, 2012, Jay-Z and Beyoncé's daughter, Blue Ivy Carter, was born at New York's Lenox Hill Hospital.

January 9, 2012: Release of "Glory"

On January 9, 2012, Jay-Z released "Glory", a song dedicated to Blue Ivy, through his Life+Times website. The song detailed the couple's pregnancy struggles and included Blue Ivy's cries, crediting her as "B.I.C".

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May 2012: Jay-Z Endorses Obama's Support of Same-Sex Marriage

In May 2012, Jay-Z endorsed President Obama's support of same-sex marriage and participated in his re-election campaign.

October 6, 2012: Jay-Z takes the subway to his sold-out show at The Barclays Center

On October 6, 2012, Jay-Z took the subway to his sold-out show at The Barclays Center.

June 18, 2017: Birth of Twins

On June 18, 2017, Beyoncé gave birth to twins with Jay-Z, a daughter named Rumi and a son named Sir.

August 2020: Partnership with Long Island University

In August 2020, Jay-Z's Roc Nation partnered with Brooklyn's Long Island University to establish the Roc Nation School of Music, Sports & Entertainment.

2023: Purchase of Malibu House

In 2023, Jay-Z and Beyoncé bought a house in Malibu, California, designed by Tadao Ando, for $200 million, establishing a record for the most expensive residence sold in California.