About this album
Where they were
When 'The Grey Album' was released in 2004, Danger Mouse was still emerging as a producer after his breakout success with Gorillaz's 'Dare'. This project marked a significant moment in his career as it showcased his ability to blend disparate musical elements, setting the stage for future collaborations and his eventual rise to prominence in the music industry.
Why it matters
The album gained notoriety for its creative mashup of Jay-Z's 'The Black Album' and The Beatles' 'The White Album', leading to discussions about copyright and artistic expression. It became a cultural touchstone for the mashup genre, influencing countless artists and producers, while also earning critical acclaim from major publications such as Rolling Stone and Pitchfork.
Essential tracks
- "Encore" — This track encapsulates the album's innovative spirit by seamlessly blending hip-hop beats with Beatles samples, highlighting Danger Mouse's unique production style.
- "Clarity" — Featuring poignant lyrics that delve into introspection, this track exemplifies the emotional depth present throughout the album and showcases the lyrical prowess of Jay-Z.
- "99" — '99' stands out for its clever juxtaposition of Jay-Z's verses with melodic elements from The Beatles, demonstrating how Danger Mouse skillfully weaves narratives across genres.
Release Date
January 1, 2004
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 P.S.A. 2:45
- 2 Say 4:25
- 3 Encore 2:40
- 4 12/4 3:34
- 5 99 4:06
- 6 Dirt 3:59
- 7 Clarity 4:00
- 8 Clothes 4:04
- 9 Allure 4:06
- 10 Justify 4:12
- 11 Interlude 2:01
- 12 1st 4:44
- 13 Threat 3:53
