Jay-Z The Blueprint & The Black Album ️, BothFirst Pressings (Vinyl)

$

125

Setting the stage:

I started to “build a record collection” of sorts about 20 years ago. I was motivated to buy vinyl because of a record player I received as a gift. What I quickly found out was that the vinyl records market is very dense and convoluted. Despite my love for music and all of its versatility, I didn’t have much direction. I simply bought what I liked to listen to, and I ended up with a “collection” of original records (i.e. first pressing) and reissues. Some purchases were of new records and some purchases were of used records, but for the last 20 years or so (subject to release date), all of the records I am offering have been in my possession. In total, I’ve accumulated just over 100 records for my “record collection”. Ultimately, these records have been collecting dust sitting on my shelves. I’ve opened and unwrapped some of the records and others are as is. Have I listened to them all? No way. I would estimate I’ve listened to about 25 of the records and some of them even a few times. Any of these records can become part of your collection now. I will be posting them in batches because compiling a discography, cataloging, and photographing all these records has been much more difficult than buying them and enjoying them. By now you can probably tell I’m not very technical with the record jargon. I’ve dedicated an immense amount of time to compiling the most accurate information to provide you about the records I am offering. I believe all of the records are in good condition at a minimum. I purchased them all from reputable record stores and not at garage sales or flea markets. That being said, I am happy to answer questions on the higher dollar items ($50+), I won’t take pictures and fulfill a bunch of random requests for the low dollar items, I just don’t have the bandwidth. In the end, I believe you will be very satisfied with your purchase. Please make sure and check out my other lots, there will certainly be something up your alley. I have priced all the items to reflect their current condition. If you disagree with my assessments please do not make the purchase. All sales items are final and I will not accept returns. Now onto the good stuff…

Jay-Z:

Jay-Z, born Shawn Carter, is one of the most influential figures in hip-hop history. Straight out of Brooklyn’s Marcy Projects, he built a legacy as a lyricist, entrepreneur, and mogul. Known for his sharp wordplay and timeless storytelling, Jay-Z not only redefined the rap game but transformed the music industry with Roc-A-Fella Records and later Roc Nation. He’s won more Grammys than any other rapper, and his business ventures have earned him billionaire status. With a discography packed with critical and commercial hits, Jay-Z blends raw New York grit with sophisticated innovation. Albums like Reasonable Doubt, The Blueprint, and The Black Album are pillars of modern hip-hop, and his ability to evolve with the times while remaining true to his roots has cemented his place as a living legend.

Jay-Z - The Blueprint:

Released on September 11, 2001, The Blueprint is widely regarded as one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time. Crafted during a critical moment in Jay-Z’s career, the album served as both a lyrical triumph and a sonic innovation, featuring production from a then-rising Kanye West and Just Blaze. Tracks like “Izzo (H.O.V.A.),” “Takeover,” and “Renegade” (featuring Eminem) have become iconic staples in rap history. Critics and fans alike hailed The Blueprint for its soulful sampling, razor-sharp lyricism, and cultural relevance. It’s certified double Platinum in the U.S. and has landed on countless “Best Albums of the 2000s” lists. This LP marked a turning point—not only solidifying Jay-Z’s dominance, but also shaping the sound of 2000s hip-hop.

Record Details (First Pressing):

Label: Label: Roc-A-Fella Records / Island Def Jam Music Group

Catalog Number: 3145863961 (on spine)

Format: 2xLP, Album, Stereo

Identifiers: Barcode: 7 31458639619. Runout Markings (Side 1): 314-586-397-1-A1 X MASTERDISK TD (etched + stamped), (Side 2): 314-586-397-1-B1 * (etched)

Condition (visually): Excellent

Notes: Includes both full-color printed Blueprint inner sleeves and insert with photos and liner notes. Confirmed original 2001 U.S. first pressing, identifiable by the “MASTERDISK TD” from mastering engineer Tony Dawsey stamp in the runouts.

Jay-Z - The Black Album:

The Black Album was billed as Jay-Z’s final bow before “retirement,” and he went out with a bang. Released in 2003, the album is an emotionally layered, sonically ambitious farewell that quickly became one of his most revered projects. With an all-star production lineup including Kanye West, Just Blaze, Timbaland, and The Neptunes, this LP is loaded with iconic tracks like “99 Problems,” “Encore,” and “Dirt Off Your Shoulder.” It debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and has since been certified triple platinum in the U.S. The record’s influence extends beyond Jay’s catalog, it even spawned The Grey Album, Danger Mouse’s legendary mashup with The Beatles’ White Album, and helped usher in the remix/mashup era of the 2000s. A perfect blend of introspection and bravado, The Black Album is one of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time.

Record Details (First Pressing):

Label: Label: Roc-A-Fella Records / Island Def Jam Music Group

Catalog Number: B0001528-01 (on spine)

Format: 2xLP, Gatefold

Identifiers: Barcode: 602498611234. Runout Markings (Side 1): B0001528-01 LP01-A. Stamped: MASTEREDISK TD, (Side 2): B0001528-01 LP01-B1-REI

Condition (visually): Excellent

Notes: Includes full-color printed inner sleeves and insert with photos and liner notes. Confirmed original 2003 U.S. pressing, identifiable by the “MASTEREDISK TD” from mastering engineer Tony Dawsey stamp in the runouts.