Def Jam Recordings

New York · New York, NY · US

Def Jam Recordings is a legendary American hip-hop and R&B label founded in New York City in 1984 and now owned by Universal Music Group. Instrumental in pushing rap into the mainstream, it built its name on acts like LL Cool J, Public Enemy, and Jay-Z and continues to release chart-topping urban music today. Its modern roster leans heavily into hip-hop and contemporary R&B with stars such as Justin Bieber, DJ Khaled, and Jhené Aiko. The label remains active as one of the most influential brands in the genre.