DJ Khaled Signs With Def Jam

DJ Khaled is on the move. During a press conference in Miami (Feb. 9), Khaled announced a partnership with Def Jam Recordings for his We The Best imprint. Under the deal, Khaled will also serve as the global creative consultant to Def Jam and UMG. 

Khaled joins the label following an eight-year tenure with Epic Records. His run there included four Billboard 200 No. 1 albums, most recently his 2022 release God Did. He also netted six Hot 100 Top 10 tracks, highlighted by his 2017 chart-topper “I’m The One.”

“This new chapter marks a special time for me,” said Khaled in a press release. “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.” 

DJ Khaled is a great artist, hitmaker, mentor, and cultural innovator,” added UMG chairman/CEO Sir Lucian Grainge. “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.”

Def Jam chairman/CEO Tunji Balogun also shared his jubilation regarding Khaled’s signing, saying: “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.”

Khaled is fresh off his Grammys performance of “God Did,” which featured Jay-Z, Lil Wayne, Rick Ross, Fridayy and John Legend. He also had five nominations at this year’s show.