Courtesy of HBO
Hip-hop icon JAŸ-Z is opening the door to one of the most personal conversations of his career in a new HBO original documentary series arriving this fall.
HBO has released the first teaser for JAŸ-Z IN 8, an eight-part documentary directed by legendary producer Rick Rubin. The intimate series features extended conversations between Rubin and the Grammy-winning rapper, entrepreneur, and cultural trailblazer as they explore the music, experiences, and creative philosophy that have shaped one of the most influential artists of the past three decades.
The series will premiere on HBO and stream on HBO Max in the United States.
Rather than following a traditional documentary format, JAŸ-Z IN 8 centers on candid, in-depth conversations that unfold across eight episodes. Rubin and JAŸ-Z discuss songwriting, lyrical craftsmanship, business, personal growth, and the life experiences that have informed the artist’s work from his early days in Brooklyn to his rise as a global music and business powerhouse.
The newly released teaser offers a glimpse into the reflective tone of the series, with JAŸ-Z discussing how adversity has influenced his creativity.
“The pain, you don’t say it’s necessary, you don’t say you need it, but if it’s there—you use it,” he says.
The documentary marks another high-profile collaboration between Rubin and HBO. Rubin previously directed the acclaimed music documentary McCartney 3,2,1, which featured revealing conversations with Beatle Paul McCartney about songwriting, recording techniques, and musical innovation. With JAŸ-Z IN 8, Rubin brings that same stripped-down interview style to one of hip-hop’s most celebrated lyricists.
Widely regarded as one of the greatest rappers of all time, JAŸ-Z has built a career that extends far beyond music. In addition to releasing numerous chart-topping albums, he has become a successful entrepreneur, investor, and philanthropist while helping shape the modern music industry. His influence spans fashion, sports, business, and entertainment, making his perspective on creativity and success one of the most anticipated elements of the series.
The project also boasts an impressive production team. HBO Documentary Films presents the series in association with Tetragrammaton. Executive producers include Shawn Carter, Daniel Kaluuya, and Rick Rubin, while Leila Mattimore and David Rohde serve as producers.
By pairing two of music’s most respected creative minds, JAŸ-Z IN 8 promises more than a retrospective of a remarkable career. It offers viewers an opportunity to hear directly from an artist whose words have shaped generations, providing rare insight into the experiences, philosophies, and emotions behind the music that continues to define hip-hop culture.