Jay-Z was born in Marcy Projects of Brooklyn, NY.  He never graduated high school.  Along with Dame Dash and Kareem "Biggs" Burke he started Roc-A-Fella Records.  He sold over 40 million records as an artist.  He broke Elvis's record for most No.1 albums with 11.  He started Roc-A-Wear clothing, co-owns 40/40 club and New Jersey Nets, and was recently president of Def Jam Records.  One year he reportedly made over 400 million dollars.  He is at the forefront of Hip-Hop entrepreneurs.  He is also a major positive influence on today's African- American generation.