From the Brooklyn projects to billionaire mogul, Jay-Z turns 56 today. Here’s a look at six brands that helped shape his empire.

Before Hip-Hop went corporate, it was raw, risky and real. Ralph McDaniels opens up about shootouts, unseen Jay-Z moments, Young Diddy and why Video Music Box survived it all.

(ThyBlackMan.com) When you talk about legends in the rap game, Jay-Z isn’t just in the conversation—he’s the blueprint. From corner hustler to corporate boss, Hov has moved through the culture like a ...