Jay-Z's Success and Achievements in Timeline

A closer look at the biggest achievements of Jay-Z. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.

Jay-Z, born Shawn Corey Carter, is a highly influential American rapper, businessman, and record executive. Widely regarded as one of the greatest rappers of all time, he's celebrated for his intricate lyricism, wordplay, and the 'rags-to-riches' story woven throughout his music. He held executive roles at Def Jam Recordings and later founded Roc Nation, demonstrating his entrepreneurial acumen within the entertainment industry.

Sections (5)

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

2006: Most Powerful Couple by Time Magazine

In 2006, Beyoncé and Jay-Z were listed as the most powerful couple for Time magazine's 100 most influential people.

2006: Enstoolment as Sarkin Waka of Kwara

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

June 2008: Hollywood's Top-Earning Couple Between June 2008-2009

Between June 2008 and June 2009, Beyoncé and Jay-Z were ranked as Hollywood's top-earning couple.

2008: Headlined Glastonbury Festival

In 2008, Jay-Z became the first major hip hop artist to headline Britain's Glastonbury Festival, sparking controversy with Noel Gallagher. Jay-Z responded by opening his set with a cover of Oasis's "Wonderwall" and delivering a well-received performance.

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January 2009: Hollywood's Top-Earning Couple

In January 2009, Forbes ranked Beyoncé and Jay-Z as Hollywood's top-earning couple, with a combined total of $162 million.

June 2009: Hollywood's Top-Earning Couple Between June 2008-2009

Between June 2008 and June 2009, Beyoncé and Jay-Z were ranked as Hollywood's top-earning couple, with a combined total of US$122 million.

December 2013: Nine Grammy Nominations

In December 2013, Jay-Z received nine nominations at the 2014 Grammy Awards, which was more than any other artist that year.

2013: One of Time's 100 Most Influential People

In 2013, Time named Jay-Z one of the 100 most influential people in the world.

2015: Grammy Win

In 2015, the song "Drunk in Love" and its accompanying album, Beyoncé, won three Grammy Awards including Best R&B Performance at the ceremony.

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2016: "Made in America" Lawsuit Win

In 2016, Jay-Z won a lawsuit for the song "Made in America" with Kanye West featuring Frank Ocean against Joel McDonald.

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2019: First Hip-Hop Billionaire

In 2019, Jay-Z became the first hip-hop billionaire.

2019: The Blueprint selected for preservation in the National Recording Registry

In 2019, Jay-Z's album The Blueprint was selected by the Library of Congress for preservation in the National Recording Registry for being "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant".

2021: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction and Album Appearances

In 2021, Jay-Z was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame alongside LL Cool J. He also appeared on Kanye West's album Donda on the song "Jail", and on Drake's album Certified Lover Boy on the song "Love All".

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2022: Collaborations, Grammy Win, and Emmy Award

In 2022, Jay-Z collaborated with Pusha T on "Neck & Wrist" and made a guest appearance on DJ Khaled's "God Did." He also won a Primetime Emmy Award as a producer for the Super Bowl LVI halftime show.

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2023: Named Greatest Rapper of All Time

In 2023, Jay-Z was named the greatest rapper of all time by Billboard and Vibe.

February 14, 2025: Lawsuit Against Jay-Z Officially Dropped

On February 14, 2025, the lawsuit against Jay-Z was officially dropped by Tony Buzbee and the accuser, with the case dismissed with prejudice, not allowing for a future refiling; Jay-Z described the outcome as "a victory."