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4:44

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description 4:44 Overview

4:44 is the thirteenth studio album by American rapper Jay-Z, released in 2017 and produced primarily by No I.D. Built around soul-derived samples and restrained arrangements, it addresses marriage, infidelity, family, financial responsibility, race, and Jay-Z's public legacy. The title track is framed as an apology to his wife, Beyoncé, and the album received a Grammy nomination for Album of the Year.

help 4:44 FAQ

What is the meaning behind the title of Jay-Z's 4:44 album?

The title comes from the lead single "4:44," which is a deeply personal apology to his wife, Beyoncé, regarding his infidelity. Jay-Z has stated that he woke up at exactly 4:44 in the morning to write the track after a personal revelation.

Who produced the entirety of Jay-Z's 4:44 album?

The album was produced entirely by Chicago hip-hop producer No I.D. He relied heavily on soul-derived samples and live instrumentation to create a cohesive, restrained backdrop for Jay-Z's introspective lyrics.

Is the 4:44 album a direct musical response to Beyoncé's Lemonade?

Thematically, yes, the lyrics on 4:44 explicitly address the themes of infidelity and marriage struggles that Beyoncé famously explored on her 2016 album Lemonade. It serves as Jay-Z's public reckoning with his personal life, family, and legacy.

Was 4:44 released exclusively on Tidal?

Yes, the album was initially released exclusively on the Tidal streaming service in 2017 before becoming available on other platforms. This was part of a broader strategy by Jay-Z, who owns the streaming service, to secure major exclusive releases.

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