Heaven

Album: Magna Carta Holy Grail (2013)
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • This song finds Jay contemplating the uncertainties of Heaven and Hell. He explained in a video interview with Rick Rubin that his verses are toying with, "that idea of (there) being heaven or hell on earth."

    Jay added: "For me, my idea is heaven is in your daughter's laughter. You know, hell could be if your child is missing for three minutes — you're in three minutes of hell. It's just not my belief that a just God would make you burn for eternity for free will that he gave you."

    Along with questioning religion "Heaven" also finds Jay shooting down Illuminati rumors, and proclaiming himself a rap prophet.
  • The song recycles a R.E.M. lyric. "Question religion. Question it all. Question existence. Until them questions are solved," raps Jay before borrowing the chorus to the Athens band's 1991 hit tune "Losing My Religion." Speaking to UK music magazine NME, R.E.M. frontman Michael Stipe discussed his reaction to Hova using some of his lyrics. "I've known Jay for a long time, he's super cool, super grounded, super smart and super talented," said Stipe "I've always had the deepest respect for him, and his music and choices. We're thrilled (for our lyrics) to be included, it's a really great honor."

Comments

Be the first to comment...

Editor's Picks

Michael W. Smith

Michael W. SmithSongwriter Interviews

Smith breaks down some of his worship tracks as well as his mainstream hits, including "I Will Be Here For You" and "A Place In This World."

Verdine White of Earth, Wind & Fire

Verdine White of Earth, Wind & FireSongwriter Interviews

The longtime bassist of Earth, Wind & Fire discusses how his band came to do a holiday album, and offers insight into some of the greatest dance/soul tunes of all-time.

Concert Disasters

Concert DisastersFact or Fiction

Ozzy biting a dove? Alice Cooper causing mayhem with a chicken? Creed so bad they were sued? See if you can spot the real concert mishaps.

Oliver Leiber

Oliver LeiberSongwriter Interviews

Oliver Leiber talks about writing and producing hits for Paula Abdul, and explains his complicated relationship with his father, the songwriter Jerry Leiber.

The Real Nick Drake

The Real Nick DrakeSong Writing

The head of Drake's estate shares his insights on the late folk singer's life and music.

Francesca Battistelli

Francesca BattistelliSongwriter Interviews

The 2011 Artist of the Year at the Dove Awards isn't your typical gospel diva, and she thinks that's a good thing.