After more than a decade of providing a consistent string of hit albums and songs, Jay-Z is leaving Def Jam Records.
The rap mogul confirmed the amicable split Thursday (May 21). Jay-Z’s departure from Def Jam puts an end to rumors regarding the buy out of his contract with the iconic label, for a reported $5 million dollars.
During his stint at the Def Jam, Jay-Z transitioned from top-selling artist to music executive.
Jay-Z albums released under the Def Jam umbrella included In My Lifetime Vol. 1, Vol. 2.., Hard Knock Life and Vol. 3…Life and Times of S. Carter as well as The Dynasty: Roc La Familia, The Blueprint, The Blueprint: The Gift and the Curse and The Black Album.
After retiring from music in 2003, Jay-Z was appointed president and co-CEO of Def Jam by Reid.
The rapper’s time as president resulted in the acquisition of R&B/pop hit makers Rihanna and Ne-Yo.
In 2007, Jay-Z announced his resignation from his post as president of Def Jam when his contract was not renewed.
The rapper continued his relationship with the label as he remained on the Roc-a-Fella/Def Jam roster as a recording artist.
Prior to officially stepping down, Jay-Z released his 2006 comeback opus, Kingdom Come.
A year later, the rapper’s concept album, American Gangster, followed.
In 2008, Jay-Z aligned with Live Nation via a wide-ranging deal, record label that included the creation of the Roc Nation record label as well as albums, touring and publishing.
