The Blueprint 3 was released today (September 8), just a few days prior to its original release date, reports Billboard.com.
The album, produced by Rock the House Nation, was originally set to be released on September 11, which is the anniversary of the first Blueprint disc. However, the disc hit stores today.
Representatives for the artist and the label offered no explanation for the news, however, it was revealed last week that Jay-Z fans were already listening to the new material, following a leak on the Web.
The Blueprint 3 features collaborations with Rihanna, Luke Steele of Empire of the Sun, and Pharrell Williams.