Jay-Z to perform Sept. 11 benefit concert in NYC

NEW YORK -- A benefit concert that rapper Jay-Z is planning for Sept. 11 is a step in the direction that his career -- and life -- is heading in, he said Monday.

The 39-year-old is set to release his 11th studio CD, "The Blueprint 3," the same day of the concert, which has been billed as "Answer the Call." The performance at New York's Madison Square Garden will air live on Fuse TV.

Jay-Z was joined by his wife, singer Beyonce Knowles; Gov. David Paterson; Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta and Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer. Jay-Z said he will donate all proceeds from the concert to the New York Police and Fire Widows' and Children's Benefit Fund. Tickets are being sold for $50, and the show is expected to raise $750,000 to $1 million.

Paterson said Jay-Z is best person to perform because of his connection to young people.

"He has a message. He's a great performer. He's very sensitive to the problems of other people," Paterson said.

Jay-Z, a Brooklyn native, has sold out Madison Square Garden seven times.