During a recent episode of Friday Night With Jonathan Ross, renowned rapper Jay-Z opened up about his upbringing in the Brooklyn projects. The conversation took a serious turn as Jonathan Ross asked him about the roughness of growing up in New York City.

Jay-Z dismissed the clichéd portrayal of the city in films and emphasized that the reality was even harsher. He admitted to witnessing street crime and even being involved in it himself during his younger years. Recounting a chilling incident, Jay-Z revealed that he saw a man get shot in the hallway when he was only nine years old.

The impact of such experiences on a young child was undeniable. Jay-Z acknowledged that it had a significant effect on him. It was a stark reminder of the harsh environment he was surrounded by. However, he was fortunate to possess a talent for making music, which ultimately became his way out.

Realizing that making music was his calling, Jay-Z decided to give it a try. He invested his energy and commitment into it, knowing that if it didn’t work out, he would go back to the streets. Fortunately for him and the world of music, his backup plan was never executed.

One notable characteristic that Jay-Z shared with fellow artist Will Smith is his unwavering focus and determination. He has a strong work ethic and doesn’t shy away from putting in the effort required to succeed. This dedication has been evident not only in his music career but also in his ability to build a successful business empire.

Jay-Z believes that his experiences of being broke served as a powerful motivator. He strives for greatness in order to ensure that he never experiences that feeling again. Leaving a lasting impact and creating a legacy motivates him to keep making music and achieving success.

The conversation on Friday Night With Jonathan Ross provided viewers with a deeper understanding of Jay-Z‘s journey from the tough streets of Brooklyn to becoming a music icon and business mogul. It was a serious moment in the chat show, highlighting the resilience and determination that propelled Jay-Z to where he is today.

Stay tuned for more captivating interviews and inspiring stories on Friday Night With Jonathan Ross, where celebrities share their experiences and insights every week.