If you caught the 60th Annual Grammy Awards show last night, then you know the most nominated artist of the night went home (kinda) empty handed. Jay Z was nominated for a whopping 8 awards (including Album of the Year). However, even without any wins his influence was as big as ever. The Album of the Year category was dominated by Hip Hop acts; a feat that is due in part to Jay Z’s efforts. He has boycotted the Recording Academy for their lack of Hip Hop representation more than one occasion. Ironically, he has won 21 times over the course of his career. If his Grammys were a person, they would be fully legal to drink. So he isn’t exactly hurting for Grammys. Plus, he did win the Industry Icon award at this year’s pre-Grammy gala. 

Now, let’s fast forward to the commercial juggernaut of rap of the last few years, Kendrick Lamar. Let’s be clear that I am a big fan of both Jay Z and Kendrick Lamar’s recent albums. They both are amazing efforts in their own right. However, the force and supersonic knock that Kendrick Lamar came with on “Humble” and “DNA” alone clearly set him apart. Those two songs (from his album, DAMN) are more memorable and culturally aware than any song from Jay Z’s 4:44. Who had the better album as a whole? I would have to go with Jay Z. Notice that most of Kendrick’s awards were for one song (most notably “Humble), except for his Best Rap Album win. 

Jay Z is beyond commercial appeal at this stage in his career. What likely has so many people up in arms about his loss is the fact that he made such a poignant album like 4:44 over 20 years into his career. Kendrick Lamar is the future though. His theatrical stage performance and even music videos concepts are out of this world. Hence his well deserved win this year for “Humble”. 

Was Jay Z really snubbed at the Grammy’s? Sure. He definitely should have walked away with something last night. However, he is the reason why Kendrick Lamar was able to walk away with five awards last night. Honestly, I believe that Bruno Mars more than deserved every single award he won. My prediction is Jay Z and Beyonce will drop a surprise album sometime in the near future (heck, maybe by tomorrow). Then, they will combine their forces to sweep the Grammys with all of their mighty R&B, Pop & Hip Hop adorned splendor. Just remember that I told you so first.