Heaven

Album: Magna Carta Holy Grail (2013)

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."

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