Jay-Z has officially left Def Jam, thanking chairman of the recording company 'for allowing [him] to be a completely independent artist.'
- May 22, 2009
AceShowbiz - Jay-Z confirms that he has exited from Def Jam Records. "I can honestly say, working with Doug Morris and LA Reid has been a unique and fulfilling experience and I respect them immensely," the rapper tells RapRadar.
"I've been in the family for almost my entire career," Jay-Z furthermore explains to the publication. "Doug and I spoke directly and had one of the most unique 'negotiations' ever. Doug won the toss but, we both won in the end..."
Besides, Jay-Z also thanks Doug "for allowing [him] to be a completely independent artist." The rap mogul adds, "Not every artist can say they own or are given the opportunity to own all of their music."
Prior to his announcement in RapRadar, Jay-Z, who still owed Def Jam one last album, reportedly has bought himself out of his contract with the recording company for $5 million. While his exit from the label has been confirmed, he gives no comment on his contract buyout rumor though. His representative also declines to provide any explanation regarding the speculation.
