JAY Z's resolute desire to claim the King of New York crown was fueled by the legendary hip-hop deities who preceded him. The street knowledge kicked by the likes of Boogie Down Productions, Eric B. & Rakim, and The Notorious B.I.G. laid the foundations for his mafioso-rap style. Later, the jiggy, radio-friendly flavors of Puff Daddy's productions encouraged him to adopt a slicker, more polished sound.