An Unlikely Inspiration: Jay-Z
They say inspiration can come from anywhere. Well today, out of nowhere, I was inspired by Shawn Carter aka Jay-Z. We didn’t meet or have a conversation or anything like that.
I was actually sitting at home, watching mid-day tv (nothing good is ever on), channel surfing and I came across Jay-Z’s 2004 Fade to Black concert at Madison Square Garden.
Now, I have never really been a hardcore Jigga fan, but I do like some of his songs. What inspired me throughout the concert was his committment to the concert and album. This was supposed to be his final album and concert, so he wanted everything to be perfect. He seemed completely focused on delivering a great show, by doing all his hits, telling the story behind the album, tons of cameo appearances from R. Kelly to Mary J. Blige to Foxxy Brown.
Overall, I enjoyed the show and was impressed with the entire production. Even if he had retired after that, he would have gone out like a champ. He truly did it his way and has truly been a living exaple that dreams do come true, but you have to be willing to work for it. He mentioned at the end how he was in awe that the night had finally come and that he was doing a sold out show from Madison Square Garden. He genuinely seemed in awe of his accomplishements being a young boy from Brooklyn (plus he’s been dating Beyonce’!).
I have always respected his business savvy and lyricism ( did I just make up a word?), but today, I respect his passion, drive and committment.
He said something in the film about when you lose focus and inspiration, you have to surround yourself with people who are inspirational. He went to visit super producer Timbaland for some musical inspiration and Timbo delivered him the beats for Jay-Z’s “Dirt Off Your Shoulder“. If you know the song, how’s that for inspiration?
People are most inspiring when they just do what they love. It was clear that he loves what he is doing and that is what was inspiring. He is a living example that dreams do come true, you just have to have be willing to put in the work.
Thanks, Jigga.
