Rap Icon Jay-Z Makes Unexpected Stop in Albany; Why Was He Here?

Jay-Z Makes Surprise Albany Visit on Monday

Shawn Carter, AKA Jay-Z, the billionaire rap icon, entrepreneur, businessman, and husband to Beyonce, visited with Democratic leaders in Albany on Monday.

You may have seen many photos and videos on social media, but why was he here?

Was Beyoncé with Him?

First and foremost, no.  Beyonce, his wife of 17 years, was not with him.

"Queen Bey" made headlines last year when she released Country Carter, a country album that fans of the genre only moderately received, but the Grammys praised it.

Cowboy Carter received eleven nominations at the 67th Annual Grammy Awards, becoming the third-most nominated album in Grammy history. It won Best Country Duo/Group Performance (for "II Most Wanted"), Best Country Album, and Album of the Year.

Jay-Z Looking to Put a Casino in Times Square

But Jay-Z wasn't in town to talk about music; he was in Albany to discuss future New York State casino plans.
Read More: New Yorkers Urged To Avoid This Beautiful But Toxic Plant

According to CBS 6 News, the self-professed "greatest rapper of all time" was here to discuss a bid from his company, Roc Nation, which is trying to secure a gaming license to open a Caesars Palace casino in Times Square.

According to sources, supporters say that the casino would bring economic growth to Midtown Manhattan, while critics worry about congestion, rising crime, and the impact on the neighborhood.

Roc Nation is an American entertainment company founded by Jay-Z in 2008. It is headquartered in New York City and has additional Los Angeles and London offices.