Despite what those commercials might suggest, Rick Rubin did not produce Jay-Z's new record

While Rubin said he imagines he was asked along because Jay-Z is “comfortable talking to me,” the rapper might not be so forthcoming in the future after hearing the Def Jam founder’s somewhat-underwhelmed review of the record. Rubin told XXL that, while he liked what he heard, "It was a little difficult—after just coming from the Kanye sessions—to listen to Jay’s album, because they’re so different.” Trying not to outright slam the latter, Rubin added that, coming from West’s sessions, he was in a “very alternative and progressive headspace,” and Jay-Z’s record is just “a more traditional hip-hop record.” Basically, set those Magna Carta expectations low, everyone.