On the heels of unprecedented performances at the World Series and the New York Yankees’ victory parade, JAY-Z has scored a # 1 Billboard HOT 100 single with “Empire State Of Mind.” Featuring Alicia Keys, the song has become an unofficial hometown anthem. This is the first time JAY-Z has topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart with a song featured on his album. Previous #1 singles include, “Heartbreaker” with Mariah Carey, “Umbrella” with Rihanna and “Crazy In Love” with Beyonce.
JAY-Z’s landmark # 1 single is the second “The Blueprint 3” release to sell over 1 million copies. Both “Empire State Of Mind” and the hit “Run This Town” with Rihanna and Kanye West have been certified platinum. On the hit single, JAY-Z remarked, “Really, “Empire State Of Mind” is about inspiration, it’s about hope. I think that’s what connects with people.”