Photo: WENN.com
Jay Z, seems unsatisfied with mere hip-hop royalty status, and has now compared himself to Shakespeare and Obama.
The rapper compared himself to the current US president, who he is on friendly terms with, in response to a criticism from activist and calypso singer Harry Belafonte.
Belafonte commented in an interview with Hollywood Reporter: “I think one of the great abuses of this modern time is that we should have had such high-profile artists, powerful celebrities. But they have turned their back on social responsibility... That goes for Jay-Z and Beyoncé"
In an interview with The Truth's Elliot Wilson, the Hov claimed that he was offended, and responded 'my presence is charity' which he he goes on to admits sounds arrogant.
He continues: "Just who I am, just like Obama is. Obama provides hope. Whether he does anything, that hope that he provides for a nation and outside of America is enough."
Watch Jay Z perform at this year's Wireless Festival:
The rapper has been criticised for releasing a clothing range with the slogan 'Occupy All Streets'. This ultimately served to make money for Jay Z while taking the idea from the Occupy movement, which directly opposed the extremely Capatalist society we live in.
As for the comparison with Shakespeare, the rapper claims 'There is no difference.' 'Shakespeare was a man who wrote poetry. I’m a man who writes poetry.Why not compare yourself to the best? I’m supposed to be here to be second best? I’m not doing this for that.' The musician has yet to write any plays.
The rapper graciously adds that if others want to settle or not put themselves in 'that light' then he is 'cool' with that. Jay Z defends himself saying that he has put a lot of his life into his music, claiming it is 'not due to bravado and arrogance' but that he puts the work in.
Below: Jay Z (and more) live at Wireless Festival
