Philadelphia, PA (CNN) -- Jay-Z is now adding his voice to the debate over the economy and same sex marriage.
The rapper and mogul sat down with CNN's Poppy Harlow to talk about a range of topics.
Listen to what he said when asked if the US economy is in recovery.
"This is a test of our character. You know, for a long time, you know, we had it pretty good in America...we were floating on this high. Well, we were hiding some of the troubles that we were going through. So, I just see this as a test of our character. I think we'll get there and we test the resolve of Americans.
Just to remind us that we have that fight. We haven't had such a fight since the great depression."
Jay-Z believes President Obama did the right thing by supporting same-sex marriage whether or not it costs him votes.
Jay-Z was in Philly promoting his headlining act at the "Budweiser Made in America" festival in September.
Tickets go on sale May 23rd.
All proceeds will benefit the United Way.
CNN