"Izzo (H.O.V.A.)" is the lead single from American rapper Jay-Z's sixth album The Blueprint. Produced by Kanye West, the song prominently samples "I Want You Back" (1969) by The Jackson 5. "Izzo (H.O.V.A.)" was debuted at the inaugural BET Awards on June 19, 2001. It reached number eight on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming Jay-Z’s first solo song to enter the top 10.
Background and composition The song's title is a reference to Jay-Z's "Hova" nickname, which itself is a reference to Jehovah, one of God's names. He said the nickname was given to him by a friend for his ability to rap without writing down the lyrics—like a "God". "Izzo (H.O.V.A.)" is one of four songs on The Blueprint produced by Kanye West. An upcoming producer at the time, West sold the song's beat to rappers Ghostface Killah and Cam'ron before it was ultimately used by Jay-Z.
Billboard described "Izzo (H.O.V.A.)" as Jay-Z's "song of triumph". Its instrumental features kick-drums, orchestral strings, and a sample of the song "I Want You Back" (1969) by The Jackson 5. On the track, Jay-Z raps about his life story, including his past as a drug dealer. He also discusses his not guilty plea for allegedly assaulting record executive Lance Rivera in 1999.
Release and performance Jay-Z debuted "Izzo (H.O.V.A.)" on June 19, 2001, during the inaugural BET Awards. The song was later released by Def Jam Recordings as the lead single from The Blueprint.
Peaking at number 8 on the Billboard Hot 100, "Izzo (H.O.V.A.)" marked Jay-Z's first solo song to enter the top 10. It also charted in Australia, Scotland, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and the UK. The song was certified Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America, and certified Silver by the British Phonographic Industry.
Music video The music video was filmed in Los Angeles on a street made to look like New York City, and features cameos from Damon Dash and Kanye West. It was directed by Dave Meyers. The video was premiered on MTV's Total Request Live on August 21, 2001.
Copyright infringement lawsuit
On October 31, 2001, a copyright lawsuit was filed against Jay-Z by Demme Ulloa, who claimed that she was not paid for her contribution to "Izzo". Ulloa asserted that it was her singing "H to the izzo/V to the izzay", though she didn't receive any money for her contribution and was not credited in the liner notes of The Blueprint. The joint authorship claim was dismissed in 2004 but continued to proceed for a copyright infringement claim, which was ultimately settled.
Credits and personnel Credits adapted from the liner notes of The Blueprint. Studio locations Mastered at Masterdisk, New York City, New York. Mixed at Right Track Studios, New York City, New York. Recorded at Baseline Studios, New York City, New York.
Personnel Jay-Z – songwriting, vocals Kanye West – production, songwriting Berry Gordy – songwriting Alphonso Mizell – songwriting Freddie Perren – songwriting Deke Richards – songwriting Young Guru – recording Kamel Adbo – recording Ken "Duro" Ifill – mixing Tony Dawsey – mastering
Samples "Izzo (H.O.V.A.)" contains elements of "I Want You Back", as performed by The Jackson 5 and written by The Corporation (Berry Gordy, Alphonso Mizell, Freddie Perren and Deke Richards).
Charts
Weekly charts Chart (2001)PeakpositionNetherlands (Dutch Top 40 Tipparade)9
Year-end charts Chart (2001)PositionUS Billboard Hot 10052US Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs (Billboard)30
Certifications
References