The first record that they put out was LL Cool J's Radio, followed by the Beastie Boys' License to Ill. Def Jam went on to sign acts such as Public Enemy, Slick Rick, EPMD, and others and Russell Simmons was the business mind behind it all. It is one of, if not the, most prominent hip hop labels ever. Although it has played such a major role in hip hop history, Simmons has since moved on to do a number of other things. From starting his clothing line Phat Farm (he has since started another line), to creating Def Comedy and Def Poetry Jam, to being involved in social and political activism, Russell Simmons has continued to be at the forefront of the hip hop movement. He is known for being a philanthropist and promoting the well-being of mankind while still staying connected to the hip hop community. The hustle and entrepreneurial spirit of hip hop can definitely be traced back to Russell Simmons. Without his efforts, hip hop may not be involved in nearly as much as it is now. So to Russell Simmons, we say...Respect Due!

Leave any comments regarding Russell Simmons and his impact on the hip hop community. As always, you can also text at straightouttahiphop@gmail.com. 

Peace.