Jay-Z plans to take back his throne with the release of ‘Kingdom Come’

By Patrick Luce Oct 10, 2006, 19:44 GMT

At long last, Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter, President & CEO of Def Jam Recordings, officially returns to the rap game with his first solo LP in 3 years. ‘Kingdom Come’ is one of the most anticipated rap albums of the year is scheduled for release on November 21, 2006. 

The lead single, “Show Me What You Got,” (produced by Just Blaze) leaked to radio on Friday, October 6th, one week earlier than planned.  The MP3 spread through the country at a record breaking pace over the weekend. 

Stations across the country broke programming and spun “Show Me What You Got,” six, seven, eight; up to 10 times in a row within minutes of receiving the track.  In just two and a half days, the single has over 16 million in audience and is already # 1 Most Increased on the R&B/Hip Hop chart and debuts at 39 bullet on the R&R/BDS Urban Chart.  “Show Me What You Got” will officially impact at all radio formats on Monday, October 16th.

The video for “Show Me What You Got,” shot on location in Monaco, will debut nationally on Monday, October 16th.  The video highlights the energy of the track with quick edits, venturing from land to sea to heights above the city.  Directed by F. Gary Gray, the clip features top race car drivers, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Danica Patrick, as well as some of the most amazing aerial shots ever to be featured in four minutes.

“I thought I was retired but, my passion for music had other plans for me. I am overwhelmed with the initial record breaking response!! I am happy to be officially BACK! The video/movie shot by F. Gary Gray is incredible. I can’t wait til ya’ll hear the album,” Zay-Z commented.

"There is no greater or more relevant artist in music today than JAY-Z," states Antonio "L.A" Reid, Chairman Island Def Jam Music Group. "Jay has proven time and again - as an artist, entrepreneur, and executive - just how important he is, not only to hip-hop, but to the culture at large. The overwhelming reaction, anticipation, and passion 'Show Me What You Got' has provoked is yet another example. All of us here at IDJ are simply honored to take part in this historic release, ‘Kingdom Come."

The release of ‘Kingdom Come’ is hot on the heels of Jay-Z’s Global Express Tour.  In 2 months, the tour is hitting over 20 countries on 3 continents.  While on tour, Jay-Z participated in the Water For Life campaign in conjunction with the UN and MTV with the mission to raise awareness on the world’s water crisis. 

His trip is being documented by MTV News and the program, Diary of Jay-Z: Water for Life will air on Friday, November 24th.  In Tanzania and Nigeria, Jay-Z just christened 2 of the first of 10 pumps he is sponsoring in the region.  Photos and diary entries are featured on MTVNews.com.