Watch Jay-Z: Reasonable Doubt

Jay-Z: Reasonable Doubt (Classic Albums) is a documentary film that explores the making of Jay-Z's first studio album, "Reasonable Doubt," which was released in 1996. The film features interviews with Jay-Z himself, as well as with key members of his team at the time, including producer DJ Premier, screenwriter Barry Michael Cooper, and pop and R&B legend Mary J. Blige. It also includes commentary from fellow rapper Kanye West, who credits "Reasonable Doubt" as a huge influence on his own career.

The documentary provides an intimate look into Jay-Z's creative process during the making of "Reasonable Doubt." It includes footage of him recording in the studio, as well as interviews in which he discusses the inspiration behind his lyrics and the various challenges he faced in bringing the album to life. Throughout, viewers gain insight into Jay-Z's influences, including his musical heroes and the culture of the New York rap scene in the '90s.

At its core, the film is a tribute to the impact of "Reasonable Doubt" on hip-hop culture at large. Fans of the genre will enjoy seeing its evolution through the eyes of one of its most influential artists. The film is also accessible to those less familiar with Jay-Z, offering a compelling look into the creative process of one of the biggest and most influential artists of the past several decades.

There are several standout moments in the film. One is when Jay-Z discusses his creative process when writing lyrics, emphasizing the importance of storytelling and creating vivid imagery that's relatable to his fans. He talks about his desire to write songs that people can connect with on a personal level, and this drive is evident throughout the documentary.

Another highlight is the commentary from DJ Premier, who produced several tracks on "Reasonable Doubt." He provides insight into the challenges of working with Jay-Z and how they overcame creative differences to produce something truly groundbreaking. He offers a fascinating look into the mind of a producer and the importance of collaboration between artists.

Throughout the film, there is a sense of nostalgia and appreciation for the era in which "Reasonable Doubt" was created. Viewers are given a glimpse into the world of New York City in the '90s and its vibrant hip-hop scene, which served as the perfect incubator for Jay-Z's creativity. The interviews with Mary J. Blige and Barry Michael Cooper add additional context and give the viewer a sense of the album's impact beyond the world of hip-hop.

Overall, Jay-Z: Reasonable Doubt (Classic Albums) is a must-watch for any fan of rap music, especially those interested in the evolution of the genre during the '90s. It's a fascinating look into the creative process of one of the biggest names in hip-hop, and it's sure to enrich the viewing experience for anyone who counts themselves a fan of the genre.