Jay Z Becomes First Rapper In Songwriters Hall Of Fame

(Radio.com) Nearly 50 years after the formation of the Songwriters Hall of Fame, the organization has recognized hip-hop as a legitimate song form. On June 15th, Shawn 'Jay Z" Carter will become the first rapper inducted into the Song Hall at the 48th Annual Induction and Awards Dinner.

"Since 1996, 21-time GRAMMY award winner, Shawn 'Jay Z' Carter has dominated an evolution in popular culture," reads a recent statement from Hall. "With more than 100 million records sold he is one of the best-selling musicians of all time. Also a powerful entrepreneur across the music/entertainment, fashion and sports industries, Jay Z personifies the 'American Dream.'"

In a rare tweet, Hova acknowledged the honor. "This is a win for US," he wrote. "I remember when rap was said to be a fad. We are now alongside some of the greatest writers in history." Read more here.