Roc-A-Fella Records Record Label Info

Roc-A-Fella Records
Roc-A-Fella Records Logo

NameRoc-A-Fella Records
TypeAmerican hip hop record label and music management company
FoundersShawn “Jay-Z” Carter, Damon Dash, Kareem “Biggs” Burke
Established1995
HeadquartersNew York City
Prominent ArtistsJay-Z, Beanie Sigel, Cam'Ron, The Diplomats, DJ Clue?, Memphis Bleek, Kanye West
ProminenceLate 90s to mid 2000s
Operated as a division ofUniversal Music Group
SaleSold in 2004 for a reported $10 million
Post-Sale Venture by Jay-ZEstablished Roc Nation, a full-service entertainment company
Current Ownership StructureIsland Def Jam retains most part of the roster
Genre InfluenceSignificantly influenced East Coast Hip Hop genre and nurtured pop rap musicians

Founding of Roc-A-Fella Records

In the vibrant world of hip-hop, few names stand out as much as Roc-A-Fella Records. This American record label and music management company was the brainchild of three industry game-changers: Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter, Damon Dash, and Kareem “Biggs” Burke.

Roc-A-Fella made its debut in 1995, an independent entity born from Jay-Z's struggles to kickstart his career with a major label. With its home base in New York City, Roc-A-Fella soon became a springboard for some of the biggest names in hip-hop.

Roc-A-Fella Records' Struggles and Initial Formation

The inception of Roc-A-Fella wasn't without its fair share of trials. Despite the initial struggles, the founders stood strong and their perseverance paid off as they attracted a roster of key artists.

The likes of Beanie Sigel, Cam'Ron, The Diplomats, DJ Clue?, Memphis Bleek, and even Jay-Z himself all found their voice under this label.

Key Artists and Their Contributions to Roc-A-Fella Records

The late 90s and mid 2000s were golden years for Roc-A-Fella. During this time, the record label soared to new heights thanks to their association with Universal Music Group.

Albums like Jay-Z's The Blueprint and The Dynasty: Roc La Familia, coupled with films like State Property helped cement Roc-A-Fella's place in hip-hop history.

Prominence and Success of Roc-A-Fella in the 90s and Mid 2000s

Roc-A-Fella's success didn't stop at producing stellar music; they also caught the eye of Universal Music Group. Operating as a division under them only amplified their reach across America – truly making them iconic figures in the world of Hip Hop.

Sale of Roc-A-Fella Records in 2004

In 2004 came a defining moment for the record label – it was sold for a reported $10 million. However, this did not mark an end but rather a new beginning for Jay-Z.

Post-Sale Era: Establishment of Jay-Z's Roc Nation

Not one to rest on his laurels, Jay-Z promptly established another full-service entertainment company – Roc Nation. This venture included artist management, label operations alongside publishing rights plus touring arrangements.

This move showed that despite selling his previous project; Jay-Z still had plenty left to give to the music industry.

Artist Management, Label Operations, Touring Arrangements at Roc Nation

Under new ownership post-sale with Island Def Jam retaining most part of roster including artist like Kanye West; Roc Nation continued to make waves in East Coast Hip Hop genre while also nurturing pop rap musicians across industry.

Kanye West and Other Influential Artists under New Ownership

One artist who particularly shone under this new structure was none other than Kanye West. His unique style coupled with his remarkable talent propelled him onto center stage – earning him recognition both inside and outside the genre.

The influence that artists like Kanye West lent to this legendary record label is immeasurable indeed making it one-of-a-kind entity within East Coast Hip-Hop genre.