Wednesday, May 23, 2012 8:18 pm
Montgomery Blair High School's Online Student Newspaper

Songs

Jay-Z - State of Mind

by Biruk Bekele, Managing News Editor

03/16/2010

Genre: Hip-hop
Artist Website: http://www.jay-z.com
Rating:
4 stars

Over 14 years in the business and Jay-Z shows no signs of stopping. With the release of “Empire State of Mind”, the veteran shows that he can put up chart toppers and still entertain. Jay-Z sets himself up as a tour guide for his hometown and raps about its trails and triumphs. After a rather dry start, the song quickly springs to life with Alicia Keys’ empowering chorus. Stunning vocals from Keys, will have listeners believe that they can do anything in New York City. Apart from the chorus, Jay-Z’s verses have great flow and are supported with satisfying piano chords. A hook from Keys gives the song variety. Like most of his other songs, Jay-Z raps about his greatness but after this song ends it’s pretty hard to argue with.