Getting a co-sign from Jay-Z probably feels surreal for an artist that has been hustling to make it for years. Known globally as one of the best rappers of all time, the Roc Nation head honcho is respected as one of the premier faces in the music industry. His ideas surpass music though, heading over into all aspects of sports and entertainment.

As we near the midway point of the year (already!?). Jay-Z gathered together a list of his personal favorite songs of 2020 so far, showing love to some of the usual characters, and also taking notice of some younger talents.

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The list starts off with Lil Baby and "Emotionally Scarred," before the Atlanta rapper appears again with "Sum 2 Prove" and "Grace" with 42 Dugg. Jay-Z is also clearly a big fan of what Polo G has been bringing to the table, shouting out the rising star for "Heartless" with Mustard. At #3, his wife makes an appearance on the remix of Megan Thee Stallion's "Savage." Elsewhere on the 20-song gathering, Jay Electronica makes several appearances, which makes total sense given Hov's involvement in the release of his debut album.

Jay-Z was also busy listening to some of the newer releases, including Future's High Off Life, of which he included "Hard To Choose One." Drake and The Weeknd earn their spots before Westside Gunn, Boldy James, Benny The Butcher, and Conway of Griselda impress the legend.

Check out the full playlist below.

It has already been made very clear that elite lyricism is required to be a member of Griselda Records. Westside Gunn, Conway The Machine and Benny The Butcher's solo discographies have proven this and their recent collaborative effort, What Would Chinegun Do, did too. They deal in grimy street raps and deliver them in intricate detail. Each of the rappers bring a distinct voice to the Buffalo-bred crew. 

Griselda's doors don't open for anyone, but they did for Boldy James. He may hail from Detroit, rather than Buffalo, but he has definitely displayed his masterful bars over the years. His latest release, The Price of Tea in China - a collaborative album with The Alchemist - is being praised as one of the best rap albums of the year so far. It's all the evidence you need to determine that Boldy James is worthy of joining Griselda. 

Alchemist continues to solidify himself as the most prolific producer in the game. If not the number one, he’s up there. The legendary beatmaker and occasional rapper never stops working, and now he’s linked up with Boldy James for yet another collaborative effort. Picking up where last year’s Boldface (not to be confused with Blueface) EP aperitif left off, the pair have unveiled further details about their upcoming album The Price Of Tea In China. 

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Drawing inspiration from an old idiom suggesting an irrelevant point, the project features esteemed lyricists in supporting roles; look for Vince Staples, Benny The Butcher (who seems to be widely recognized by fellow verbal elites), Freddie Gibbs, and Evidence. Yet it’s Boldy himself, and possible Alchemist with the occasional verse, who will be carrying the torch the majority of the way. And for that reason, it’s clear we’re in good hands. 

Check out the full tracklist and Kei Imazu-laced cover artwork below, and look for The Price Of Tea In China to land on February 7th. 

1. “Carruth”
2. “Giant Slide”
3. “Surf & Turf” f. Vince Staples
4. “Run-Ins”
5. “Scrape the Bowl” f. Benny the Butcher
6. “Pinto”
7. “Slow Roll”
8. “S.N.O.R.T.” f. Freddie Gibbs
9. “Grey October” f. Evidence
10. “Mustard”
11. “Speed Demon Freestyle”
12. “Phone Bill”