Jay-Z - Reasonable Doubt

The Early Jay-Z

My original CD was damaged. It was definately worth replacing. Every song on Reasonable Doubt is a hit. It features heavy hitter Biggie Smalls on Brooklyn's Finest and Mary J Blige. I listen to it now right along with The Black Album, American Gangster and all the others after Reasonable Doubt. His style has changed a little. He is some what more laid back now, but he was always true to the rap game. Check out the early years. August 11, 2008

One Of The Finest From '96 (Rating: 10 out of 10- -5 Stars)

Man oh man, to believe this is Jay-Z's debut here, "Reasonable Doubt". This album dropped back in 1996, when many rappers were looking at the materialistic side of things in music (i.e. money, fast cars, etc.). What Jay-Z did on his debut was a classic. Jay-Z probably already had money, but he was a hungry rapper, and his hunger showed throughout this album.

A lot of these songs here are classics. "Can't Knock The Hustle" that featured Mary J. Blige is one of the best songs on here (there is a remix with Melissa Morigan that is better than this), as well as the beat behind it. On this album, Jigga displays his excellent word play on here, like on "Politics As Usual", and the well known "Dead Presidents". The latter song has that well known sampled Nas sample "I'm out for dead F'in Presidents to represent me". Depending on which version of this CD you have, the song is either two verses or three verses. Mine is three.

Guest appearances also come clean as well. One of my favorite tracks is the Primo laced "Bring It On" featuring Jaz-O and Sauce Money. Also the late Notorious B.I.G. comes in for the song "BK's Finest" another dope track. Foxy Brown joins in with Jay for the "Ain't No *****". Even Memphis Bleek does a good job on the song "Comming Of Age" and the bonus song "Can I Live II".

Jay-Z dropped a classic back in '96, that still gets play here in '07. I loved this CD everytime I play it, because it's good to hear one of raps biggest icons back when he was just another rapper. Some may say that this is Jay-Z's best album. I really can't make that call on that right there, although people have already established their opinions. Although I believe that this is one of Jay's finest LPs.

Lyrics: A+
Production: A
Guest Appearances: A-
Musical Vibes: A
Overall: A

Favorite Tracks: Can't Knock The Hustle, Politics As Ususal, BK's Finest, Dead Presidents, 22 Two's, Can I Live, Comming Of Age, Friend Or Foe '96, Cashmir Thoughts, Bring It On

Honorable Mention: Regrets

Peace Everyone!!! March 3, 2007

Top 3 rap CDs of all time

This is one of the top three rap CD's ive ever heard. If you're into club bangers, this isn't the album for you, but thats the ONLY reason not to pick up this album. The beats are very tight and the lyrics are intelligent and make you think somewhat. I strongly suggest you pick up this album because as it gets older, it will be harder to find. I'm a casual rap fan, but this is well worth the money! Strong Buy! May 10, 2004

This is the real Jay Z

This is his best work- the beats are tight and his rap with Biggie is just dope- his new stuff can't hold a candle to this CD- get it- it is more like the old school rap of the late 80's. You will not be disappointed. October 16, 1999

do whatever you want

if you like jay-z buy the CD, if you don't like him then you really shouldn't. Easy as that. May 7, 1999

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