It’s been just over 10 years since Jay-Z released his autobiography Decoded through Random House, and now he’s announced a much larger venture with the publisher.
Roc Lit 101, a new imprint in Random House launched by Roc Nation, will focus on “books at the dynamic intersection of entertainment and genre-defying literature.”
Several well known rappers are set to release books through Roc Lit 101 including a fiction-based story by Lil Uzi Vert, memoirs by Fat Joe and Yo Gotti, and a book about criminal justice from Meek Mill.
The first titles are expected next summer and they will include Till the End, a memoir from former New York Yankees star pitcher, CC Sabathia, and Shine Bright, a comprehensive book about Black women in music from journalist Danyel Smith.
Jay-Z signs a copy of Decoded in 2010
The new imprint will be lead by Roc Nation’s Vice President Jana Fleishman, and publishing giant Chris Jackson, who was instrumental in releasing Decoded.
“The goal of Roc Lit 101 is to provide a creative outlet for acclaimed wordsmiths and artists to share their visions with new audiences,” said Fleishman.
“There are so many untold stories and we consider it a true privilege to be able to amplify diverse voices while exploring the uncharted worlds that are about to open to us.”
Jackson emphasized the new company’s focus on telling the best stories the entertainment industry has to offer:
“Our aspiration for the imprint is to create books that draw from the best of pop culture — its most imaginative and talented storytellers, innovators, and literary chroniclers — to create beautifully written and produced works that will entertain and enthrall readers, but also illuminate critical issues.”
You can find more information on the Random House website.
