Nonetheless , intent on pursuing a solo career , it was several years before he finally received a record deal from Roc - A-Fella .
The album was recorded over a period of four years , beginning in 1999 .
Nonetheless , intent on pursuing a solo career , it was several years before he finally received a record deal from Roc - A-Fella , and the album was recorded over a period of four years , beginning in 1999 .