Magnanimity Becomes One of Rap’s Moguls

Nate Chinen reviews Jay-Z’s liveshow at the Hammerstein Ballroom:

Jay-Z was magnanimous as a host, allowing an excerpt of “Duffle Bag Boy,” a single that Lil Wayne has made one of his calling cards. This courtesy was matched, and then some. “The best rapper alive,” Lil Wayne proclaimed, pointing to Jay-Z. Then, indicating himself: “The next rapper in line.” It was a clearly symbolic gesture, suggesting both deference and a claim to inheritance.