Inset: Shawn Carter AKA Jay-Z with Al Sharpton and convicted-felon Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs.
Jay-Z and Roc Nation’s ambitious proposal for a casino in Times Square, dubbed Caesars Palace Times Square, was summarily rejected in a devastating blow to the rapper. Leading up to the denial, Jay-Z had made desperate moves by enlisting Al Sharpton to try and sell the casino as a racial equity project. The denial is one of several recent losses incurred by Jay-Z, who is facing serious allegations, including money laundering.
Al Sharpton has been a longtime associate of both convicted-felon Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs and Jay-Z. He has been photographed with them since the early 2000s, even attending Diddy’s infamous White Parties in The Hamptons.
Jay-Z’s String of Recent Losses
Jay-Z’s casino loss is one of many tied to his close association with Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs. Among the recent allegations are that Jay-Z participated in the rape of a 13-year-old girl with Combs, who was recently sentenced to 4 years in jail. Meanwhile, Jay-Z’s rival, Nas, has received the green light for his Resorts World affiliated casino project.
The Beginning: Roc Nation Casino Pushed as a ‘Community Project’
Roc Nation, led by Jay-Z, partnered with SL Green and Caesars Entertainment to establish this proposed casino, projecting it would attract over 130 million visitors annually and boost local economic opportunities. The initiative marketed a chance for New Yorkers to contribute $500 toward funding.
The Rejection: New Yorkers Say ‘No’ to Roc Nation’s Manipulation
Despite Roc Nation’s lobbying efforts, the Community Advisory Committee’s vote, which resulted in a 4-2 decision against the casino, reflected a significant pushback from local stakeholders. Many voiced concerns about the impact on the cultural fabric and livelihood tied to Times Square, emphasizing the need to preserve what makes the area unique.
Roc Nation’s RICO Troubles
Amidst ongoing controversies regarding Roc Nation’s leadership, allegations have surfaced claiming that the organization is entangled in a web of federal crimes, implicating figures like Fat Joe in illicit activities to provide cover for broader criminal enterprises. This denial halts Roc Nation’s momentum and shines a light on its manipulative tactics and troubling associations.
