The legedary record label founded in the dorm room of Rick Ruben and Russell Simmons that recorded rap superstars and groups like Run DMC, LL Cool J, DMX, Public Enemy are op landscape, recently downsized, laying off more than 20 employees.
According to All Hip Hop.com, staff members and music industry executives like Chris Hicks and Jonathan McHugh were let go, however, Hicks and McHugh will reportedly perform consulting work for Island Def Jam/Motown, who work with stars like Rihanna, Young Jeezy, Justin Bieber, Kanye West and Ne-Yo — among other companies.
Media outlets like The Wrap are reporting problems within the financial structure of the record label. CEO of Island Def Jam Barry Weiss vehemently denies the report.
News of the layoffs may be somber but Island Def Jam and Universal Republic are celebrating the addition of a new A&R to the team: Bruno Mars’ manager Brandon Creed.
