Book of the Day: a first by a first

Congratulations to Shawn Carter- Jay-Z to his millions of fans- for his election to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame last week!

Carter is the first hip-hop artist so honored, and not past time, either. He is tied with Paul McCartney as the holder of 21 Grammys, has had 13 songs debut at #1, and has sold over 100 million records. Carter has also branched out into a variety of successful business lines, building a net worth approaching a billion dollars.

And, of course, he’s also married to one of the world’s most striking and talented musicians, Beyonce’ Knowles, who recently gave birth to twins.

Henry- who defines ‘hip” in a silent, undemonstrative way most mistake for obliviousness, celebrates Jay-Z’s honors with a first edition retrospective:

Jay-Z, Decoded (Spiegel & Grau, 2010). ISBN 978-1-4000-6982-0. The singer’s lyrics, with commentary and photographs illuminating his life and times. Hardcover unclipped dust jacket, very good condition. HBB price: $50 obo.

Former President Obama was one of those celebrating Jay-Z’s induction:

Henry Bemis Books is one man’s attempt to bring more diversity and quality to a Charlotte-Mecklenburg market of devoted readers starved for choices. Our website is at www.henrybemisbookseller.blogspot.com. Henry Bemis Books is also happy to entertain reasonable offers on items in inventory; for pricing on this or others items, kindly private message us. Shipping is always free to US locations; local buyers are welcome to drop by and pick up their purchases at our location off Peachtree Road in Northwest Charlotte if they like.

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