Years ago I remember listening to an interview or podcast that featured Jay-Z and I was so impressed with his answer when he was questioned on how many more things he planned to own. I’m paraphrasing but he mentioned how ownership was the only way to financial freedom, wealth, and gave him an inherent sense of respect and pride that a Black man could accomplish “white territory” possessions. I thought, wow. Ownership is the way. 

Hip-hop idol, Jay-Z was announced as a billionaire last year. Joining an elite list that includes Bill Gates, Jeff Bezos, Warren Buffet, Mark Zuckerberg and Kylie Jenner. He’s part of an even smaller group of Black billionaires and the first hip-hop artist to be featured on the list. He’s paved the way by owning Roc Nation, his recording company; the D’Ussé cognac that he co-owns with Bacardi, the Ace of Spades champagne he shares with Armand de Brignac, and Tidal, the music streaming service. Another recent announcement proves he’s not stopping now that he’s at the top.

Jay-Z’s Roc Nation has partnered with Brooklyn’s Long Island University to launch the Roc Nation School of Music, Sports and Entertainment. Students can begin enrolling now and start classes in the fall of 2021. Roc Nation will also award 25% of the incoming freshmen class with scholarships that will guarantee recipients graduate without any debt. 

This is really exciting for creatives, athletes and artists. Roc Nation has worked with Rihanna, Alicia Keys, J.Cole, Megan Thee Stallion and so many more. More recently they helped produce the NFL Super Bowl halftime show with Shakira and Jennifer Lopez. 

Roc Nation CEO Desiree Perez called the new partnership with LIU “a true investment in our community and young people in Brooklyn, in New York City, and beyond. We’re excited that The Roc Nation School of Music, Sports & Entertainment will provide unique insight, knowledge and experiences for students and introduce the world to the next generation of unmatched talent.” 

Students that attend the school can study music, music technology, entrepreneurship and production, and sports management. “Our proximity in and around New York City’s epicenter of music and sports clearly positions us to offer unparalleled experiential learning and access to professional opportunities that will launch students to success,” LIU President Dr. Kimberly Cline said in a statement. 

Students can expect to learn from top industry leaders, while also engaging with guest artists and lectures via internships. The school will also offer resources to high school students with their residential camps for ages 10-18 that focus on music and sports management.

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