One of the highlights of Hip-Hop’s 50th anniversary last year was the Brooklyn Library’s Book of Hov exhibit. There was a hardcover version that was on display at the exhibit from July through December. On the website of the high-end coffee table book business Assouline, fans can now buy that same title. They are the same publisher that contributed to the creation of the hard copy Apple Music’s 100 Best Albums list that went viral earlier this year. The Book Of HOV: A Tribute is currently available for preorder on their website here.
You do have a few options. You can cop the standard version of the book for $120. A description of the book reads, “This Assouline title immortalizes the groundbreaking exhibition, featuring thousands of archival pieces from JAY-Z’s career—original recording masters, stage wear, interviews, awards, and rare photos.” It then continues, “Organized into eight chapters inspired by JAY-Z’s lyrics, the book explores his artistry, entrepreneurship, and activism, showcasing nearly 700 images alongside essays that contextualize his cultural impact.
Shelling out for Jay-Z fans
For the real Jay-Z superfan in your life, you might want to grab the “ultimate” edition but it won’t be cheap. This version will run you about $2,000 and there are only five in existence. This version’s description reads “Presented in a luxurious clamshell case, this striking volume spans 432 pages with over 675 illustrations. The Book of HOV showcases it all—from the guitar JAY-Z played at Glastonbury (the first rapper on that legendary stage) to Daniel Arsham’s “HOV Hands” sculpture, his Rock & Roll Hall of Fame award (as the first solo hip-hop inductee), and hundreds of paper planes bearing dreams from NYC schoolchildren.”
Its description continues, “More than a multi-hyphenate, JAY-Z redefines possibility, proving you can set your intention and create your own story. Each Ultimate Edition includes white gloves and a signature canvas tote.” Then, there is an even more exclusive version which is listed at “price per request,” so we can only imagine how much that might be. There’s only going to be five copies to go into production. Overall, if you’re in need of a gift for a hip-hop historian, this might be it.
