DJ Khaled Announces New Partnership With Def Jam Records

DJ Khaled is leaving Sony Records and is taking his talents to Def Jam records.

On Thursday, the artist held a press conference in Miami announcing his partnership with Def Jam Recordings for his We The Best label venture. During Khaled’s early music career, he served as an A&R executive at Def Jam — making this a full-circle moment as he’ll be releasing music as a Def Jam artist.

The producer will also join the Universal Music Group in an executive role, serving as Global Creative Consultant to Def Jam and UMG’s family of artists worldwide. 

The major announcement serves as a homecoming for DJ Khaled, who initially took on an executive A&R position at the label in 2008, developing hits for stars like Rick Ross and others. 

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

During the conference, Tunji Balogun, Chairman and CEO of Def Jam Recordings, praised DJ Khaled for his incredible production, mentorship, and innovation. The two have worked together for years, creating a guiding philosophy of relationship-building throughout their careers.

“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,” Balogun said. “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.”

 LaTrice Burnette, Executive Vice President of Def Jam Recordings/President, took the stage to celebrate her long-time relationship with Khaled, sharing kind words about their “special working bond.”

“Throughout our years together at Epic, Khaled and I developed a special working bond and broke barriers through a united vision, focused partnership and hard work,” Burnette said. “I have a tremendous respect for Khaled’s artistry, creativity, work ethic, marketing savvy, and boundless positive energy. I’m thrilled to welcome him back home to Def Jam and can’t wait to see what we cook up next.”

Along with today’s announcement of his new label home at Def Jam, Khaled took the opportunity to update media and fans on more exciting developments in his world.

The music mogul has joined forces with Jordan (again) for one of the year’s most-anticipated sneaker drops—the WE THE BEST AIR JORDAN V. As one of Jordan’s most ardent and vocal supporters, Khaled proudly presents “another one” with this shoe. It follows a massive drop on Cyber Monday, resulting in the biggest collab launch in the history of the Jordan brand.

In keeping with Khaled’s philanthropic spirit and commitment, this year, the We The Best Foundation – a 501(c)3 organization dedicated to uplifting individuals throughout underserved communities across the United States and supporting various non-profits – announces its inaugural scholarship program in partnership with Roc Nation. The 2023 scholarship grant was awarded to Felisha Agenor.

For his final announcement, DJ Khaled shared his partnership with streetwear retailer Snipes for a Miami location. Khaled serves as Chief Creative Officer for Snipes and has partnered with the leading sneaker and streetwear retailer to bring a new, exciting retail experience to Miami. The store is set to open its doors in the heart of Collins Ave.