Missed JAY-Z’s “Book of HOV” exhibit? Don’t worry—it’s now an epic book
For all those JAY-Z fans out there squirming in pain for missing the memorable “Book of HOV” museum exhibition, all is not lost as the show has been converted into a mind-blowing coffee table lexicon.
On Wednesday (December 4), the rap giant collaborated with the luxury publisher Assouline to release The Book of HOV: A Tribute To JAY-Z – coincidently on his 55th birthday.
The book documents the original exhibition, which was housed at the Brooklyn Public Library from July to December last year, that included thousands of rare JAY-Z artifacts, including original recording masters, iconic stage outfits, and photos that were never seen before.
It promises to deliver a behind-the-scenes look into the multi-talented rapper’s life and career tribute highlighting the artistry, achievements, and cultural influence. Another splendid feature has been a complete reconstruction, to scale, of Baseline Studios, where JAY-Z recorded such classic sounds as The Blueprint and The Black Album.
According to Assouline, the 432-page book, “dedicates and enshrines the immersive installation,” compacting thousands of archived units that encapsulate every facet of JAY-Z’s career.
The collector’s edition holds nearly 700 images along with detailed essays spread across eight chapters. This promises to give an in-depth view into JAY-Z’s lasting cultural impact for its readers.
Fans, however, should brace themselves for a hefty sum: $120 for the “classic” edition, and $2,000 for the “ultimate” edition, which comes in a classy clamshell case with white gloves and a signature canvas tote bag.