Metal Leaves Studio

Another day, another milli. And with that brings another sold-out show for Jay-Z during his nationwide BP3 Tour.  Could things be getting predictable for him now that he 'runs every town' he touches down in? Probably not.

An entrepreneur and philanthropist with an extreme amount of diversified business holdings, Jay-Z told Billboard,  "I just can't sit here and make records and not do anything else." 

He founded Roc Nation, a multi-faceted entertainment company.  He is part owner of the New Jersey Nets, and co-owns the 40/40 Club. Pair that with serving as co-brand director for Budweiser Select and retaining stake in Rocawear.
But tonight, he would once again play the role of entertainer. As everything he touches turns to platinum, it is not haphazardly that Jay has earned the title of "Greatest Rapper Alive." He would not accept anything less.

The  crowd descended en masse upon the Palace of Auburn Hills. They came dressed to kill, Detroit-style. The illest sneakers from Burn Rubber, seductive stilettos from Neimans, tight party dresses, over-sized striped polos. Even though Detroit reps the D hard, one woman showed NY love as she rocked an entire outfit with the New York Skyline recreated on the back.

Although everyone wore their Sunday-best, none surpassed the iconic style of the Man of the Hour himself.  Not surprisingly, as years ago, Jay single handedly changed the game when he chose button-down over throwback. His entrance tonight was more elaborate than in years past,  his ensemble, more dramatic. He came fully dressed, ready to hold it down, in military regalia. Not a far cry from the fatigues he used to sport; he's just repping a higher rank now.

The Master of Ceremonies stood stoic as he rose through the floor. He took his place at center stage, illuminated by a single spotlight.  He commanded respect through his silence. And although Hova was backed by a ten piece band. and surrounded by over fifteen thousand fans screaming their allegiance- throwing diamonds in the air, all eyes were on him and him alone.

Out of nowhere, he began fiercely spitting lyrics like it was one man guerrilla warfare. He reigned over the crowd with his powerful words, professing:  "I went from Pauper to President, every deal I ever made set precedent."  Jay-Z shares his struggles and successes and lets the audience know the journey that is possible.

Sean Carter was born into the projects and has now conquered The Palace-  through years of hard work. Everything is easier than you think, but harder than you ever imagined. And as you walk down the streets of Detroit, with its empty, burned-out houses- know that it is difficult to rise above the ashes-  not impossible.

R.I.P. B.I.G.