Founded in 1984, Def Jam Recordings began as an independent label inspired by downtown New York City's vibrant street culture and the emerging sound of hip-hop. Pioneered by iconic stars like LL Cool J, Slick Rick, The Beastie Boys and Public Enemy. Over the next two decades, Def Jam established its dominance with superstar acts like Jay-Z, DMX, Ja Rule, Ludacris, Rihanna, Jeezy, and the inimitable Kanye West. Now in its fourth decade, Def Jam's music and lifestyle has grown into a global brand – synonymous with creativity, quality and authenticity - encompassing a diverse roster of stars like West, Justin Bieber, Alessia Cara, Logic, Pusha T, Jadakiss, Jeremih, Big Sean, among others.

Def Jam reaffirms its commitment to developing hip-hop communities throughout the region with the setting up of operations in the Philippines. Def Jam Philippines' roster includes J Mara, VVS Collective, 8 BALLIN', Fateeha, Tiffany Lhei, Jano, & Rekognize, a trailblazing collaboration of Hip Hop stars.