Jay-Z albums, ranked

15 records, ordered by our Elevation score — our rating out of 100, not chart position.

Start here

The Blueprint

The Blueprint

2001

This album captures Jay-Z's signature sound with a cohesive mix of sharp lyrics and rich beats, making it accessible for new listeners.
  1. 1
    The Blueprint

    The Blueprint Start here

    2001
  2. 2
    Reasonable Doubt

    Reasonable Doubt

    1996
  3. 3
    4:44

    4:44

    2017
  4. 4
    The Black Album

    The Black Album

    2003
  5. 5
    American Gangster

    American Gangster

    2007
  6. 6
    In My Lifetime, Vol. 1

    In My Lifetime, Vol. 1

    1997
  7. 7
    Vol. 2... Hard Knock Life

    Vol. 2... Hard Knock Life

    1998
  8. 8
    Vol. 3... Life and Times of S. Carter

    Vol. 3... Life and Times of S. Carter

    1999
  9. 9
    The Dynasty: Roc La Familia

    The Dynasty: Roc La Familia

    2000
  10. 10
    Magna Carta Holy Grail

    Magna Carta Holy Grail

    2013
  11. 11
    The Blueprint 3

    The Blueprint 3

    2009
  12. 12
    The Blueprint 2: The Gift & The Curse

    The Blueprint 2: The Gift & The Curse

    2002
  13. 13
    Kingdom Come

    Kingdom Come

    2006
  14. 14
    The Blueprint 2.1

    The Blueprint 2.1

    2003
  15. 15
    Unfinished Business

    Unfinished Business

    2004
Everything by Jay-Z Full discography, career arc and where to go next