New York hip-hop label founded in 1983 by Russell Simmons and Rick Rubin. It has since gone on to become one of the most well-known hip-hop labels in the world, along the way making stars of the likes of Public Enemy, L.L. Cool J, The Beastie Boys, Redman, and DMX. Chairman and CEO from 2022: Tunji Balogun. See also Def Jam Music Group Inc., Def Jam Recordings Group Inc., Def Jam Recordings Music Group, Def Jam Recordings Music Group Inc., Def Jam 2000, Def Jam Germany. For counterfeit releases, see . History: 1984: Label founded; releases several 12" singles independently. via Discogs →