Empire State of Mind by JAY-Z & Alicia Keys Reaches Diamond Certification

mpire State of Mind by JAY-Z and Alicia Keys achieved diamond certification from the RIAA on July 24, 2024, marking sales of over 10 million units. This significant milestone underscores the track's enduring popularity since its release on September 1, 2009.

Diamond certification is a prestigious recognition in the music industry, indicating a song's immense success. It reflects combined sales, digital downloads, and streaming equivalents surpassing 10 million units. This achievement places "Empire State of Mind" among the elite tracks that have reached such a high level of commercial success.

"Empire State of Mind" is a tribute to New York City, blending JAY-Z's rap verses with Alicia Keys' soulful chorus. The song, featured on JAY-Z's album "The Blueprint 3," quickly became a modern anthem for New York, celebrating the city's culture and resilience. The track was produced by Al Shux and features a sample of "Love on a Two-Way Street" by The Moments. It was written by Angela Hunte and Janet Sewell-Ulepic, who initially intended it as an ode to their hometown.

Upon its release, "Empire State of Mind" topped the Billboard Hot 100 for five weeks and won two Grammy Awards for Best Rap Song and Best Rap/Sung Collaboration. It also received critical acclaim, being included in multiple critics' top 10 lists for 2009. The accompanying music video, which has garnered over 262 million views on YouTube, features black-and-white footage of New York City, highlighting its iconic landmarks and the dynamic performances of JAY-Z and Alicia Keys. Watch the iconic video below.