Barack Obama Congratulates on Jay Z’s Songwriters Hall of Fame Induction

Jay Z becomes the first hip-hop artist to be inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame — a monumental moment for the culture. Former President Barack Obama took a moment to congratulate his longtime friend with a heartfelt message.

Check out the full speech above, and congrats as well to fellow inductees Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, Berry Gordy, and others on their well-earned recognition.