Renowned rapper and entrepreneur JAY-Z, alongside his mother Dr. Gloria Carter, received a heartfelt tribute at the Brooklyn Public Library Gala this week.
The prestigious event, held on Monday night, October 2, featured New York City Mayor Eric Adams introducing the hometown hero, who delivered a touching speech on behalf of his mother, who regrettably couldn’t attend due to health reasons.
“I figured if these young men could speak on behalf of their dad, I could speak on behalf of my mom. Dr. Gloria had to see a doctor earlier. She’s gonna be very upset that I told y’all that. She gave me a very bad excuse and I couldn’t do it and lie to the good people of Brooklyn,” JAY-Z expressed.
“I think my grandmother, Patty White’s birthday — he was there. That’s my cousin, Jamar [White]. Jamar’s a real cousin. You know you get a lot of cousins once you start making it. Noodles, we called him Noodles,” JAY-Z continued.
“I think she’s hungover. There’s no other way to put it. She wanted to be with you guys but this is what she would want me to say. Y’all not taping this, are you?”
The Brooklyn Public Library Gala held special significance due to its association with JAY-Z’s “The Book of HOV” exhibition. Launched in July, the exhibition continues to captivate audiences and will remain on display until December. Notably, entry is currently complimentary for all visitors.
This multimedia extravaganza “showcases thousands of archived items, including original recording masters, previously unseen photographs, iconic stage attire, prestigious awards and accolades, as well as videos and artifacts spanning every facet of JAY-Z’s illustrious career.”
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The exhibition recently added another intriguing element with the inclusion of JAY-Z’s iconic off-white 1993 Lexus GS 300 from his “Dead Presidents” music video. Roc Nation, JAY-Z’s entertainment company, stated: “The iconic Lexus was first featured in JAY-Z’s ‘Dead Presidents’ visual, and then in the lyrics of ‘Can I Live’ and the #1 hit, ‘Empire State Of Mind.'”
Desiree Perez, CEO of Roc Nation, expressed enthusiasm about the exhibit’s extension through December, ensuring an immersive experience for both new and returning attendees.
In addition to this cultural celebration, JAY-Z hosted the REFORM Alliance’s inaugural Casino Night Event in Atlantic City over the weekend. The event successfully raised $24 million for criminal justice reform through a charity blackjack tournament, underscoring JAY-Z’s commitment to social justice causes.
