Jay-Z’s 99 Problems Illustrated, by Ali Graham

Produced by the legendary Rick Rubin and released in 2004 as the third single off Jay-Z’s seminal The Black Album, ’99 Problems’ has since become arguably one of the most recognised rap records of the last 10 years. Using samples from the 1980s, Rubin and Jay-Z created a tune which is as legendary for the chorus as it is for its production value.

Taking the title of Jay-Z’s ’99 Problems’ literally, illustrator Ali Graham has envisioned and individually numbered each of these ‘problems’ based on the lyrics and life of a Mr. Shawn Carter. Simple, classic and very original, the 99 Problems tumblr will be showcasing a new ‘problem’ each day. Our personal favourites include ‘Where Brooklyn At?’, ‘Picasso Baby’ and ‘Poor Table Service’. Check out some selects below…