The Evolution of Jay Z - If you're a true Jay Z fan, you already know that today, Dec. 4, is Sean Carter's born day, thanks to the opener of The Black Album. But even if you aren't (wait — you aren't?), it's impossible to front on Hov's contributions to hip hop over his 44 years on the planet. It's hard to argue with 11 No. 1 albums—that's more than Elvis — and 50 million records sold worldwide. On top of all that, as a record exec — one worth nearly half a billi — he's helped usher in amazing artists like Kanye West, Rihanna and J. Cole. And let's just say his arm-candy game, whether he's escorting his wife or carrying his new baby, is top-notch as well. Click on to see the evolution of Jay Z, from the streets of Bed-Stuy to the top of the world. — Alex Gale (Photo: Jamie McCarthy/WireImage)