Def Jam Recordings (also simply known as Def Jam) is an American multinational record label owned by Universal Music Group. It is based in Manhattan, New York City, specializing predominantly in hip hop, contemporary R&B, soul and pop.

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Founded in 1984, Def Jam Recordings has represented the cutting-edge in hip-hop music for more than 35 years. Def Jam began as a maverick independent label inspired by downtown New York City’s vibrant street culture and the emerging sound of hip-hop, pioneered by iconic stars like LL Cool J, Slick Rick, The Beastie Boys and Public Enemy.

Jan 15, 2025 · Founded in 1984, Def Jam Recordings has represented the cutting-edge in hip-hop music for more than 35 years. Def Jam began as a maverick independent label inspired by downtown New York City’s vibrant street culture and the emerging sound of hip-hop, pioneered by iconic stars like LL Cool J, Slick Rick, The Beastie Boys and Public Enemy.

Jan 25, 2018 · Let’s take a look at the timeline of major events that cemented Def Jam’s legacy in music over the course of the past four decades. 1983: Rick Rubin Creates Def Jam Recordings. The...

Explore music from the Def Jam Recordings label. Discover what's missing in your collection and shop for Def Jam Recordings releases.

May 3, 2024 · Formed in the New York University dormitory room of punk-turned-hip-hop-DJ Rick Rubin in 1984, Def Jam Recordings has grown to become one of the most iconic record labels on the face of the planet.

Jun 24, 2024 · This year marks the 40th anniversary of Def Jam Recordings, the label that introduced some of hip-hop's most legendary artists. From LL to Luda, read on for 15 of the label's most important releases.

Oct 9, 2011 · A new book attempts to capture that history in photos, interviews and essays. It's called Def Jam Recordings: The First 25 Years of the Last Great Record Label.