DJ Khaled is embarking on a major new chapter. More than “another one,” the newest season of the multihyphenate’s career looks set to become his biggest yet.
For, the hitmaker has lifted the lid on a robust new partnership with Def Jam Recordings.
That Grape Juice was fortunate enough to be amongst the handpicked media in the maestro’s hometown of Miami for the seismic announcement
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Moments ago, it was revealed that Khaled has signed with Def Jam, bringing his We The Best imprint along with him.
The superstar, who has amassed global sales of over 20 million singles and 6 million albums as well as 4 billion-plus streams, will release his new music moving forward on the legendary label.
Khaled, who was nominated for Song of the Year, for ‘GOD DID,’ at the GRAMMYs 2023, adds an executive title to his many roles. For, he has also on-boarded Universal Music Group as Global Creative Consultant to Def Jam and the broader UMG’s worldwide roster.
The latter serves as a full circle moment of sorts, given that Khaled previously excelled in an executive A&R position at the label in 2008, carving out hits for the likes of Rick Ross and more.
Check out TGJ’s exclusive coverage of the event:
DJ Khaled says of the freshly minted pact:
“This new chapter marks a special time for me. The energy at this point in my career is at an all-time high and I’m grateful to Sir Lucian Grainge for allowing me to join his empire at this stage in my journey. Together, we will achieve even greater heights and take it to the next level. I feel blessed and so inspired with renewed energy. I’m excited to not only partner, but to come back home to Def Jam. Tunji Balogun is not only an extraordinary A&R, but a true music-man and visionary who continuously is responsible for introducing the world to some of its next greatest superstars. I’m excited to join my sister and visionary executive LaTrice Burnette once again, as we have had tremendous success on every single project we have collaborated on in the past. Def Jam is the culture and together we will make history yet once again.”
Sir Lucian Grainge, UMG’s Chairman and CEO, said,
“DJ Khaled is a great artist, hitmaker, mentor and cultural innovator. It gives me great pleasure to welcome him home to UMG where we look forward to working together to amplify his brilliant creative instincts and unique vision.”
Tunji Balogun, Chairman and CEO of Def Jam Recordings:
“Beyond a proven hitmaker, incredible producer, undeniable artist, and consummate showman, DJ Khaled occupies the rarified air of cultural icon. His uncanny ability to continuously have his finger on the pulse of the culture, to reach audiences all over the world in innovative yet authentic ways, and his remarkable savvy for marketing, promoting and eventizing everything he touches is absolutely second to none. We are thrilled to partner with DJ Khaled and We The Best, both as a multi-platinum, award-winning artist and as a valued executive. Without a doubt, Khaled can only make us better.”
LaTrice Burnette, Executive Vice President, Def Jam Recordings/President, 4th & Broadway concluded:
“DJ Khaled has been a dear friend and close collaborator of mine for over a decade. Throughout our years together at Epic, Khaled and I developed a special working bond and broke barriers through a united vision, focused partnership and hard work. I have a tremendous respect for Khaled’s artistry, creativity, work ethic, marketing savvy, and boundless positive energy. I’m thrilled to welcome him back home to Def Jam, and can’t wait to see what we cook up next.”
Beyonce the music, Khaled (who was previously signed to Epic Records) seized the occasion to update the masses on his plentiful activity more broadly.
Continuing his partnership with Jordan, the star’s is cooking up the WE THE BEST AIR JORDAN V sneaker drop. Khaled’s We The Best Foundation will press on with its partnership with the Jordan Brand Black Community Commitment, which over the last two years has invested almost $17 million dollars in over 75 nonprofits.
That’s not all.
Khaled, who is Chief Creative Officer for Snipes, has announced a Miami location. He was also honored with both the key to the City of Miami and the key to Miami Beach in salute to his ongoing work in the community. As such, henceforth, February 9 is officially recognized as ‘WE THE BEST’ day in the city of Miami. While November 26 will be ‘KHALED KHALED’ day in the city of Miami Beach.