Since Jay-Z unexpectedly announced the arrival of his next album, he's been doing all he can to generate hype before its July 7 debut. In his most recent publicity tactic, the rapper told fans that he would give his album to one million Galaxy mobile phone users on July 4, three days before its official release date.
The news certainly has Galaxy users eager to get their paws on the album, titled Magna Carta Holy Grail, but they aren't the only ones who have good reason to look forward to its arrival. There are plenty of other treats on the way.
Jay-Z made the announcement via a well-placed Samsung sponsored commercial during the NBA Finals, and with so little time to build the anticipation, rumors and news surrounding the album has run rampant. His approach proved successful. It has received worldwide attention from fans and fellow musicians.
"I think how Jay-Z announced his album is pretty bawsed up," rapper Big Sean told MTV News.
"That was one of the dopest moves ever," said Warren G. "That was huge. For Samsung to collaborate with Jay-Z on an album, that's incredible. Nobody's done it, so I think it's brilliant."
"I'm a big fan of Jay-Z's and straight up he showed us how to do it, man, so I can't lie and say I'm not trying to follow in his footsteps," said fellow rapper 2 Chainz.
Trinidad James also commented on Jay-Z's 'genius' approach. "Of course, at the level of life where [he is] right now, those things that [he's] doing is going to work for so many reasons. Either way, it's going to be good."
Check out the lyrics to one of his forthcoming tracks called "Part II (On the Run)," which features Beyoncé, below.