Alicia keys e jay z empire state of mind

Jay-Z's iconic collaboration with Alicia Keys continues to captivate audiences years after its release in 2009 as 'Empire State of Mind' remains one of the most recognizable hip-hop anthems ever recorded.

Initially featured on his seventh studio album, 'Watch the Throne', which he co-produced alongside Kanye West and also featuring Jay-Z's wife Beyoncé amongst other notable guests including J. Cole, Pusha T and Chris Martin from Coldplay; it soon branched out as a solo single by itself under different titles depending upon region - titled simply “Empire State of Mind” in many countries but rechristened instead with more descriptive subtitles such as 'Alicia Keys ft Jay-Z Empire State Of Mind' etcetera.

The song's lyrics were written almost entirely by Jay-Z himself alongside its producers J. Rocwell and E- & Ski, drawing heavily from classic American standards like Frank Sinatra’s “Fly Me to the Moon” while still managing to infuse modern hip-hop sensibilities throughout every line without ever feeling forced or artificial in any way shape form.

Musically speaking 'Empire State of Mind' is essentially a fusion between an old-school soulful jazz instrumental backing track (which itself bears strong similarities with Marvin Gaye's classic hit 'What Goes Around Comes Around') overlaid overtop with Jay-Z delivering his signature laid-back, streetwise flow peppered sporadically by Alicia Keys' soaring yet emotive vocal delivery on the chorus - her contribution adding an extra layer of depth and soulfulness to what was already shaping up to be one helluva potent blend.

Lyrically speaking 'Empire State Of Mind', as you'd expect given its title, is essentially a love letter addressed directly towards New York City itself. Jay-Z reminisces fondly about growing up on the streets of Brooklyn during tough times yet still manages to maintain an unwavering sense of pride and loyalty towards The Big Apple - his affection for which shines through every line like neon lights illuminating Times Square at midnight.

Jay-Z has stated in interviews that he wrote 'Empire State Of Mind' as a tribute to New York City, where both him and Alicia Keys grew up. He wanted the song to capture the spirit of resilience and hope that defines New Yorkers during tough times, while also celebrating the city's unique culture and history.

Throughout its six-minute runtime (yes you read right - SIX MINUTES!), 'Empire State Of Mind' never once flags or wavers from its central message; instead it only gets louder, more anthemic and ultimately downright uplifting as Jay-Z implores his listeners to stand strong alongside him in these trying times: “Don't believe the hype / These New York streets will make you hard” - words that ring truer now than ever before.

As we look back on 'Empire State Of Mind' nearly two decades after its initial release, it's clear why this song has become an enduring hip-hop classic. Its blend of nostalgia and forward-thinking production combined with Jay-Z's heartfelt lyrics continue to captivate audiences worldwide, solidifying Alicia Keys' contribution as the perfect foil to her collaborator's emotional delivery.

Whether you're a die-hard New York City fan or simply someone who appreciates timeless pop culture classics in all their glory - 'Empire State Of Mind' is an absolute must-listen that will continue to stand tall alongside hip-hop history for generations to come.

Alicia keys e jay z empire state of mind