Decoded is Jay-Z's personal memoir released in November 2010. Along with autobiographical information, Jay-Z elaborates on his lyrics and their explanations.
Jay-Z switches between speaking of the present and giving stories of his past. Many of the stories are centered around his childhood, growing up in poverty in the Marcy Projects and the series of events that led to him dealing drugs, getting in fights and how his rap career got started.
Though Jay-Z is usually very private, he gives the reader a glimpse into his private celebrity life through the autobiography. He explains the trials and tribulations of celebrity life.
Through story telling, Jay gives the reader insight into his personal opinions. He speaks on his feelings about Hurricane Katrina and his relationship with Barack Obama and reflects on his past. These reflections are a rare glimpse into the man so many wish to know. He explains that he still considers himself a hustler despite his accomplishments and how his roots in the projects have molded him into the man he is today and how his upbringing has carried him through his life of fame and celebrity.
Decoded includes lyrics to 36 songs accompanied by annotations by Jay-Z. Some songs are only partially represented by a few lyrics but Jay-Z's thorough notes explain everything from simple words to an in-depth look at his thought process and the meaning behind some of his most famous words.
