Island Def Jam CEO Barry Weiss Says Label Is ‘On Fire,’ Not Broke

After TheWrap.com columnist Johnnie L. Roberts released a story days ago stating that Hip Hop powerhouse record label Island Def Jam is ailing, the label’s chairman and CEO bared his claws saying that the home that college buds Rick Rubin and Russell Simmons built in the 80s is stronger than ever. In a recent interview, the record exec responsible for signing some of Hip Hop’s most notable acts squashed all rumors in an intense rebuttal to refute claims of Def Jam’s failure.

Website Global Grind caught up with Barry Weiss and his response to the claims was full of bravado and confidence that the label has flourished, contrary to The Wrap’s report. "I don't know what the f--k they're talking about. Def Jam is not broke, it's on fire!! We just did a deal with Kanye's G.O.O.D. Music and Big Sean's album is a great success and will continue to garner a lot of attention,” said a fired-up Mr. Weiss. He added, "Kanye and Jay-Z's Watch The Throne has the whole world buzzing. Jeezy got an album coming out and his show last night in NYC has the whole industry excited. Rihanna just ended her amazing tour of her amazing album. Frank Ocean is on the verge of super stardom." Read more...