New Jay-Z and Rick Rubin Docuseries Headed to HBO

A brand new documentary series focusing on Jay-Z is scheduled to premiere on HBO this autumn. Titled Jaÿ-Z in 8, the show's concept is straightforward: it features an eight-episode dialogue between the iconic rapper and legendary producer Rick Rubin, who also serves as the project's director. A newly released teaser trailer offers a glimpse into their dynamic, with Rubin noting, "Without the pain you wouldn’t have done the work". Jay-Z counters with his own insight: "So the pain—you don’t say it’s necessary, you don’t say you need it—but if it’s there, you use it".

This isn't Rubin's first time directing an in-depth musical retrospective; he previously guided the 2021 Hulu series McCartney 3,2,1, though that project spanned only six episodes. Interestingly, despite their palpable chemistry, Rubin has only produced a single song in Jay-Z's extensive catalog—the hit "99 Problems" from 2003's The Black Album.

This upcoming documentary arrives as Jay-Z celebrates three decades since the release of his classic debut album, Reasonable Doubt. Earlier this year, the hip-hop mogul hit the stage for his first solo headlining gig in more than half a decade at Philadelphia's Roots Picnic in May. Looking ahead, he is preparing for a massive trio of back-to-back hometown concerts at Yankee Stadium next month.

Fans attending the Yankee Stadium shows can expect a uniquely curated experience: the July 10 set will focus entirely on Reasonable Doubt, the July 11 show will celebrate 2001's The Blueprint, and July 12 is slated as a special "Extra Innings" event. For the ultimate collector willing to spend top dollar, a comprehensive anniversary box set spanning Jay-Z's entire discography is also available to purchase—though it will set you back $1,500.