You can't tell the story about hip-hop without telling the story of Def Jam. We break down the business behind of one of the most iconic record labels of all time. Join me, Dan Runcie, and friend of the pod, Zack Greenburg, as we discuss the triumphs and challenges that shape Def Jam and its legacy.

[00:04:44] Def Jam influence on modern hip hop

[00:08:59] How Russell Simmons and Rick Rubin met

[00:18:18] Simmons and Rubin part ways

[00:26:23] Lyor Cohen takes over, Polygram deal

[00:34:24] Def Comedy Jam and Def Poetry Jam

[00:42:59] Late 90s run: DMX, Jay Z, and the UMG sale

[00:52:11] Def Jam Vendetta

[00:58:27] Jay Z becomes CEO

[01:12:09] LA Reid, Def Jam in the 2010s

[01:21:54] Most effective Def Jam CEO?

[01:28:31] Dark horse move?

[01:38:05] Missed opportunities

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