Black American Icons: Beyonce and Jay-Z

Beyonce (1981 – ) and Jay-Z (1969 – )

When it comes to pop culture and business, you are hard pressed to find a more powerful duo than Beyoncé and Jay-Z.  Their epic musical careers have earned them an impressive 48 Grammy Awards combined, but their success reaches far beyond the stage and studio.  Born in New York City as Shawn Carter, 51-year-old Jay-Z’s massive music career and numerous business ventures, including Roc Nation, have made him the first billionaire hip-hop artist.  He launched the Shawn Carter Foundation in 2003, focused on helping individuals facing socio-economic hardships and empowering youth and communities in need.  Beyoncé Giselle Knowles-Carter, 39, was born in Houston, Texas, and rose to fame as the lead singer of Destiny’s Child.  She is the most nominated female artist in Grammy history, with 62 nominations.  Her BeyGood Foundation is currently focused on helping families facing foreclosure due to the COVID-19 Crisis.  Their remarkable success, both as individuals and a couple, continues to have impact across the world.