By The Hip Hop Writer
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
Ironically, seventeen years ago, Jay-Z envisioned the success he is currently having. Now public information, Jay-Z began as a hustler on the streets of Brooklyn in New York City. Possessing a gift for rhyming, Jay-Z soon teamed up with Jaz-O and began rapping. Initially, it seemed short-lived, so Jay-Z returned to hustling.
Eight years later, Jay-Z and Damon Dash started Roc-A-Fella Records and landed a one album deal with Priority Records. Def Jam soon caught wind and signed their future president and his label to a lucrative deal, which opened doors for Beanie Sigel, Memphis Bleek, Freeway, Kanye West, and many more.
Once he outgrew Def Jam, Jay-Z ended Roc-A-Fella Records in favor of Roc Nation, the company which provides Wale, Rihanna, Meek Mill, and many others. The company has also held negotiations with Drake and his OVO label. Now, Jay-Z has added another deal to the table, as he entered a publishing deal with Warner Music Group for his music post 2008.
The deal will also include the artists signed to Roc Nation.
Read the statements below:
Jay-Z’s statement:
“The real meaning of success is being in the position to work with an individual you consider a friend,” said Jay in a statement. “Jon Platt is such a person. He’s a man of extraordinary character as well as a remarkably talented executive with an ear for music and an eye for talent. It’s great to watch him grow to be one the best in the business.”
Jon’s statement:
“I first partnered with Jay in 1996, and it’s been thrilling to work with my friend over the past 16 years as he’s grown into one of the world’s best songwriters and become a global icon,” said Platt, currently president, creative at Warner/Chappell after serving at EMI Music Publishing for many years. “He consistently breaks new ground, producing an incredible body of work that will be enjoyed by generations of fans to come. At the same time, Roc Nation is one of the most dynamic and influential music companies around. It is home to an extraordinary collection of hit-makers, who are writing and producing many of today’s most popular songs and collaborating with the world’s most successful artists. I couldn’t be happier to continue my relationships with Jay and Roc Nation and build on our partnerships at Warner/Chappell.”
