How JAY-Z Made History With His Emmy-Winning Super Bowl Halftime Show

Los Angeles Premiere of Sony Pictures' "The Book of Clarence"
Los Angeles Premiere of Sony Pictures' "The Book of Clarence" / JC Olivera/GettyImages
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JAY-Z is no stranger to breaking records and making history. The rap mogul has won 23 Grammy Awards, sold over 100 million records, and became the first hip-hop billionaire. But on Sunday night, he added another achievement to his impressive resume: he won an Emmy Award for directing Rihanna's Super Bowl halftime show.

A Spectacular Show

The Super Bowl is the biggest sporting event in America, and the halftime show is one of the most anticipated and watched performances of the year. Millions of fans tune in to see their favorite artists rock the stage and deliver a memorable show.

Rihanna
FENTY x PUMA Sneaker Launch Party / Emma McIntyre/GettyImages

Last year, Rihanna was the headliner, and she did not disappoint. The Barbadian superstar performed a medley of her hits, including "Umbrella", "We Found Love", "Diamonds", and "Work". She also brought out some surprise guests, such as Drake, Eminem, and Kendrick Lamar. The show was a dazzling display of lights, fireworks, dancers, and special effects.

But behind the scenes, there was another star who was responsible for making the show happen: JAY-Z. The rapper, who is also Rihanna's mentor and business partner, was the executive producer and director of the show. He oversaw every aspect of the production, from the music, to the choreography, to the visuals. He also collaborated with the NFL, Pepsi, and Roc Nation, his entertainment company, to create a show that would appeal to a diverse and global audience.

Related: Jay-Z and Roc Nation Partner With NFL, Will Be Co-Producers for Superbowl

A Historic Win

JAY-Z's hard work paid off, as the show received rave reviews from critics and fans alike. It also earned him an Emmy Award for Outstanding Directing for a Variety Special, which he shared with co-director Hamish Hamilton. The Emmy Awards are the most prestigious honors in television, and JAY-Z became the first hip-hop artist to win one for directing.

JAY-Z was not present at the ceremony, but he expressed his gratitude and excitement on social media. He posted a photo of himself holding the Emmy trophy, with the caption:

"Thank you to everyone who made this possible. This is for the culture. We did it!"

He also congratulated Rihanna, who also made history as the first black woman to headline the Super Bowl halftime show. He wrote:

" Rihanna, you are a legend. You killed it. I'm so proud of you. You deserve all the accolades. You are the queen of the world."

Related: Jay-Z's Birthday Could Transform Into an Annual NYC Celebration

A Cultural Impact

JAY-Z and Rihanna's Super Bowl halftime show was not only a spectacular and historic event, but also a cultural one. The show celebrated the diversity and influence of hip-hop and black music, and showcased some of the most talented and influential artists of our generation. It also inspired millions of fans around the world, especially young people of color, who saw themselves represented and empowered on the biggest stage.

JAY-Z and Rihanna have proven once again that they are not only icons, but also visionaries. They have used their art and platform to create positive change and uplift their community. They have also set a new standard for excellence and creativity in the entertainment industry. They are truly the king and queen of hip-hop.

Related: Big Daddy Kane Supports Initiative to Declare Jay-Z's Birthday a Recognized Holiday