Jay-Z Buys Out Def Jam Contract

ONE NATION UNDER JAY-Z: As Roc Nation, Jay-Z’s new home under the Live Nation umbrella, takes shape, the hip-hop superstar has reportedly bought back the last remaining record on his IDJ deal for what some say is a whopping $5 million, raising a number of intriguing questions. How does the album figure into the plans of Roc Nation’s brain trust, which also includes the A&R-savvy Jay Brown and Tata, as well as Jay-Z’s business manager John Menielly? How will it be marketed and distributed? Will Roc Nation employ a traditional distribution channel or take the LP direct to retail? Or alternatively, will the new company make it part of a rumored arrangement inside a major? Every one of the Big Four is reportedly eager to make such a deal.

"I can honestly say, working with Doug Morris and LA Reid has been a unique and fulfilling experience and I respect them immensely. I've been in the family for almost my entire career.

Doug and I spoke directly and had one of the most unique "negotiations" ever. Doug won the toss but, we both won in the end..

I thank him for allowing me to be a completely independent artist. Not every artist can say they own or are given the opportunity to own all of their music."