Jay Z's name shows up on many rap fans' Top 5 Dead or Alive lists and for good reason. The Brooklyn native is an ever-evolving force, businessman and hip-hop storyteller. In a sit-down with Rap Radar's Elliott Wilson for 'The Truth' video series, Hov shares many thoughts on his growth, competitive spirit, New York connection and more.

Seated inside Yankee Stadium hours before his show as part of the Legends of the Summer tour, Hov touches on the creation of his new album, 'Magna Carta Holy Grail,' and praises the likes of Justin Timberlake for what he deems as the best vocal performance of his career on the intro track 'Holy Grail.' Then there's talk of his infamous Samsung deal and Rick Rubin's couch session.

The charismatic rhymer also explains why he's inspired by Jean-Michel Basquiat and embracing the change that comes in all aspects of his life, especially after putting in "so much work" and "four classics" since entering the game at 26 -- he's now 43.

Before the interview comes to an end -- stay tuned for Part 2 -- Jay shares his fondness for his native New York City and details the root of his competitive spirit. "Sometimes you have to throw your stats out there to remind people," he adds.

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