
Source: Lester Cohen / Getty
In 1998, Jay-Z, the iconic NY rapper and entrepreneur, released his third studio album, “Vol. 2… Hard Knock Life.” This album was a big moment in his career and the genre of hip-hop as a whole. “Hard Knock Life”, featured a sample from the musical “Annie,” and became a hit, displaying Jay’s lyrical abilities and his transition into mainstream appeal.

Source: Steve Eichner / Getty
“Hard Knock Life” brought Jay-Z to success, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart and earning him his first Grammy Award. The album talked about his past street life, the pursuit of success, and the challenges faced by blacks in America. Jay-Z’s lyrics resonated with a huge fanbase, bridging the gap between underground and commercial hip-hop.

Source: Jim Smeal / Getty
The album’s success not only solidified Jay-Z’s status as a hip-hop legend but also played an important role in shaping the hip-hop scene. The album influenced future generations of artists and demonstrated the genre’s ability to evolve and adapt to wider audiences while staying true to its roots. “Vol. 2… Hard Knock Life” remains a classic in hip-hop history!
On This Day September 29, 1998: Jay-Z Released His Third Album Vol. 2… Hard Knock Life was originally published on ronetlcnaptown.staging.go.ione.nyc
1. Memphis Bleek – Intro (Hand It Down) (Feat. Pain In Da Ass)
On This Day September 29, 1998: Jay-Z Released His Third Album Vol. 2… Hard Knock Life was originally published on ronetlcnaptown.staging.go.ione.nyc
2. Jay-Z – Hard Knock Life (Ghetto Anthem)
On This Day September 29, 1998: Jay-Z Released His Third Album Vol. 2… Hard Knock Life was originally published on ronetlcnaptown.staging.go.ione.nyc
3. Jay-Z – If I Should Die (Feat. Da Ranjahz)
On This Day September 29, 1998: Jay-Z Released His Third Album Vol. 2… Hard Knock Life was originally published on ronetlcnaptown.staging.go.ione.nyc
4. Jay-Z – Ride Or Die
On This Day September 29, 1998: Jay-Z Released His Third Album Vol. 2… Hard Knock Life was originally published on ronetlcnaptown.staging.go.ione.nyc
5. Jay-Z – N***a What, N***a Who (Originator 99) (Feat. Jaz-O & Amil)
On This Day September 29, 1998: Jay-Z Released His Third Album Vol. 2… Hard Knock Life was originally published on ronetlcnaptown.staging.go.ione.nyc
6. Jay-Z – Money, Cash, Hoes (Feat. DMX & Pain In Da Ass)
On This Day September 29, 1998: Jay-Z Released His Third Album Vol. 2… Hard Knock Life was originally published on ronetlcnaptown.staging.go.ione.nyc
7. Jay-Z – A Week Ago (Feat. Too $hort)
On This Day September 29, 1998: Jay-Z Released His Third Album Vol. 2… Hard Knock Life was originally published on ronetlcnaptown.staging.go.ione.nyc
8. Jay-Z – Coming Of Age (Da Sequel) (Extended Version) (Feat. Memphis Bleek)
On This Day September 29, 1998: Jay-Z Released His Third Album Vol. 2… Hard Knock Life was originally published on ronetlcnaptown.staging.go.ione.nyc
9. Jay-Z – Can I Get A… (Feat. Ja Rule & Amil)
On This Day September 29, 1998: Jay-Z Released His Third Album Vol. 2… Hard Knock Life was originally published on ronetlcnaptown.staging.go.ione.nyc
10. Jay-Z – Paper Chase (Feat. Foxy Brown)
On This Day September 29, 1998: Jay-Z Released His Third Album Vol. 2… Hard Knock Life was originally published on ronetlcnaptown.staging.go.ione.nyc
11. Jay-Z – Reservoir Dogs (Feat. Beanie Sigel, The LOX & Sauce Money)
On This Day September 29, 1998: Jay-Z Released His Third Album Vol. 2… Hard Knock Life was originally published on ronetlcnaptown.staging.go.ione.nyc
12. Jay-Z – It’s Like That (Feat. Kid Capri & Liz Leite)
On This Day September 29, 1998: Jay-Z Released His Third Album Vol. 2… Hard Knock Life was originally published on ronetlcnaptown.staging.go.ione.nyc
13. Jay-Z – Money Ain’t A Thang (Feat. Jermaine Dupri) (Bonus Track)
On This Day September 29, 1998: Jay-Z Released His Third Album Vol. 2… Hard Knock Life was originally published on ronetlcnaptown.staging.go.ione.nyc