Album: Watch the Throne

Introduction
"Watch the Throne" is a collaborative studio album by the American rap artists Jay-Z and Kanye West, released on August 8, 2011, by Roc-A-Fella Records, Roc Nation, and Def Jam Recordings. The album was taped in between 2010 and 2011, and as an outcome, it combined two of the most influential rap artists of the time. The album was produced by both West and Jay-Z, in addition to numerous other well-known manufacturers, such as Mike Dean and Swizz Beatz, among others. "Watch the Throne" functions distinct cover art by Italian modern artist Riccardo Tisci, imaginative director of Givenchy at that time. The album got positive evaluations from music critics and was a business success, debuting at primary on the United States Billboard 200 chart.

Background and Production
The concept for a collaborative project between Jay-Z and Kanye West began throughout the recording sessions for West's fifth album, "My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy". At first, "Watch the Throne" was prepared as a five-song EP, but it soon evolved into a full-length album. The recording procedure took place in a number of studios around the globe, consisting of areas in Australia, England, France, and the United States. This globe-trotting approach was selected to avoid leakages and diversions, and to create a distinct environment in each session.

The production of the album was a collaborative effort in between Jay-Z, West, and a group of popular manufacturers, such as Q-Tip, RZA, Pharrell Williams, and No I.D. The music on "Watch the Throne" combines a wide range of designs, consisting of hip-hop, R&B, pop, soul, and electronic. The album is loaded with samples from various sources, consisting of soul, rock, and gospel tunes, along with speeches from public figures like Martin Luther King Jr.

. Lyrics and Themes
"Watch the Throne" explores numerous styles in its lyrics, such as success, wealth, race, and popularity. Jay-Z and West likewise often discuss their individual experiences and aspirations. The album showcases the rap artists' storytelling skills in tracks like "New Day", where they envision speaking with their coming children, and "Murder to Excellence", which traces criminal activity and strife in African American neighborhoods before transitioning to black quality and empowerment.

Another recurring theme in the album is the sense of competition in between Jay-Z and West, as they both reflect on their professions and their positions within the rap industry. This friendly rivalry eventually develops a synergy in between the 2 artists, as they push each other to deliver first-class verses. Songs like "Otis" and "N *** as in Paris" remain iconic examples of their lyrical expertise.

Reception and Legacy
Upon its release, "Watch the Throne" got positive reviews from music critics, applauding the chemistry between Jay-Z and West, the bold production choices, and the thematic depth of the lyrics. The album debuted at number one on the US Billboard 200 chart, offering 436,000 copies in its very first week. It was likewise successful internationally, arriving 5 in lots of European charts.

"Watch the Throne" produced numerous hit songs, consisting of "Otis", "No Church in the Wild", and the chart-topping "N *** as in Paris". The album was also recognized with many award nominations, and it won 3 Grammy Awards in 2012, consisting of Best Rap Album.

In retrospection, "Watch the Throne" is often considered as a landmark minute in the careers of Jay-Z and Kanye West. The partnership in between 2 of the most respected rap artists of their time led to an enthusiastic and genre-defying album that stays prominent and appropriate a decade after its release.