Paul Rosenberg is the new CEO of Def Jam

Universal Music Group announced that Paul Rosenberg, the artist manager and record executive, has been named CEO of Def Jam Recordings, effective January 1, 2018.

Rosenberg is the founder and CEO of Goliath Artists Inc., a New York-based management firm that handles the careers of global superstar Eminem, Danny Brown and others. He is also President of Shady Records, a label launched by Eminem and Rosenberg that released breakthrough albums from hip-hop acts including 50 Cent, D12, Obie Trice, Yelawolf, Slaughterhouse and Bad Meets Evil (Eminem’s collaboration with Royce Da 5’9”).

Steve Bartels, who has decided to step down as CEO of Def Jam, will remain at the company until the end of the year.  Rosenberg will report to Sir Lucian Grainge, Chairman and CEO of Universal Music Group, and be based in Def Jam’s New York headquarters.

In making the announcement, Grainge said;

Over the past four decades, Def Jam has played a pivotal role in elevating hip hop into what is today the world’s most culturally impactful musical genre.  Def Jam’s track record of introducing culturally significant artists is a direct result of the entrepreneurial brilliance that Russell Simmons and Rick Rubin instilled in the label from inception.  Paul brings with him not only a remarkable record of success in hip hop, but an entrepreneurial drive and a deep passion for artist development that will build upon Rick and Russell’s enduring legacy.

Rick Rubin, Def Jam co-founder and legendary music producer, commented:

Def Jam is a place where artists are free to express themselves, their creativity and their vision.  Paul comes from a place where artists and creativity come first. He supports artists taking creative risks and backs them 100% when they do. Def Jam continues to wave the flag of hip hop culture and Paul will imagine it anew.