Since the beginning of the new millennium, Kanye West and Jay-Z have been two of the most prominent and successful rappers in the industry. The two artists have written and recorded numerous songs together; including a collaborative album, Watch the Throne in 2012. Although often stigmatized for only writing songs of a violent or sexual nature, the two have both expressed their religious values in their lyrics, often criticizing mainstream Christian culture while maintaining their belief in God.
 

Following the release of 2004’s Jesus Walks started an evolution in the spirituality of Kanye’s lyrics, from needing the Christian God to help him through life, to becoming a God himself, as exhibited in his egotistical behaviour in years past, as well as in 2013’s I Am A God. This website will explore the spiritual growth in Kanye’s lyrics, and the messages contained throughout.

 

While Kanye expresses his Christian values, Jay-Z is more critical on the thought of organized religion. Through research, this website will explore 2013’s Magna Carta Holy Grail, and his influence on Kanye as a person and an artist will be discussed. As well, Jay-Z’s affiliation with the Five Percent Nation spiritual group, accusations of him being involved with the occult, and how these things connect to modern hip-hop will be addressed.