Calling all hip hop practitioners, it's that time again. The time I'm referring to is the highly hyped and anticipated Jay-Z craze. Yes, Blueprint 3 has officially dropped and I'm certain that even those of us, I mean all of you that downloaded the leaked version still respectfully aided in pushing Hov's sound scan numbers. The album was moved up in its release date from September 11 due too the overwhelming public response and demand to have the product in hand as soon as possible.

The Blueprint 3 is a serious package of appealing production, impeccable melodies and clever lyricism. Not every song will knock your socks off, but the ones that are a hit will take flight like a home run in the World Series. Everyone can agree that Jay hasn't lost a step with his boastful punch lines and raw story telling. Even with the exhausting band wagon of fresh haters from The Game to the now hypocritical T-Pain, Jay-Z seems to be extraordinary in his current evolution.

Along with Jay's release he has announced a tour with many stops that will include visiting college campuses and other popular venues. The tour will follow on the heels of his charity concert. The benefit show will occur on Friday, September 11 in New York City. Special pre-sale tickets for the tour will be available to fan club members on September 4 and CITI card holders in select cities on September 8. General ticket sales will begin on September 11 and September 12 and they will be available on www.LiveNation.com.

Sean Carter just can't help himself when it comes to putting in hard work. Jay is already admitting to beginning the process for his next album. While most people would be still basking is the glory of their current victory Jay-Z demonstrates that you can never exercise too much ambition. His next project is being described as an alternative album in comparison to his previous musical efforts. The album is being cooked as very experimental. Hova stated, "This will not be another number one record" because he's trying to capture a new element.

- By Sha'Linda Jeanine