Tuesday, October 10, 2017

A Brief Overview Of The Most Dominant Hip Hop Record Labels

By Amy Robinson


The performing arts industry is one that generates billions of dollars in revenue each year in the US. Some of the best artists started out of nowhere and have made a fortune for themselves using their talent. However popular some rappers are, the untold truth is that their fame is heavily pegged on the strength of the hip hop record labels they represent.

The passing of the years has seen the rise and fall from glory of many recording houses. The ones that have weathered the many storms in the business have grown to be famed all over the world. While there is no specific order to the list below, it profiles some groups that fall in this category and the rappers associated with them. Most renowned labels started in the 90s and at the ushering in of the new millennium.

Starting off the list is Shady Records. Its founders are Paul Rosenberg and the rapper Eminem who have seen it produce many hits since 1999 when they founded it. Its inception took place after the debut album of Eminem was released. It keeps churning massive hits despite is small number of artists.

Aftermath group comes next. It played a crucial role in the formation and growth of Shady Records. It was founded in 1996 by the now accomplished businessman Dr. Dre, who at the time was a rapper. Eminem often acknowledges Dr. Dre as being his mentor. Through this mentorship, he became a world class act.

Rap enthusiasts often feature the name of Death Row Records when discussing about successful groups. The group houses rappers who are talented and produce classic hits. They are also unique in terms of composition and style. However, the group found itself in a lot of controversy soon after the famous rappers Tupac and Biggie died.

Def Jam Music Group is worth mentioning too. Its influence is on a global scale. Some notable artists signed to it include Jay Z, Ja Rule, DMX, Nas and Beastie Boys. After the onset of the 2000s, new entrants such Young Jeezy, Pusha T, Kanye West and Rick Ross came to the limelight through it. Its numerous international successes arguably make it the best modern recording group.

Another great addition to the list is Cash Money Records. Some of the top acts associated with the group include Lil Wayne, Drake and Hot Boyz. Its artists have remained true to the genre despite the allure of other popular genres such as RnB.

The list would certainly be incomplete without a mention of Maybach Music Group. It founder is the rapper Rick Ross. While the group produces great music, its distribution is managed by Atlantic Records. The group is home to great rappers such as Omarion, Wale, Meek Mill and Ross himself. After the release of the first album by the group in 2009, it went ahead to release a further 21.

There are plenty of other groups that are picking up pace. The industry undoubtedly has a lot on the table for would be musicians and people who want to invest in it. With time, the success of new entrants will come to light.




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