Rick Rubin co-founded Def Jam Recordings with Russell Simmons in 1984.
Rubin launched the label from his dormitory at New York University, where he produced “It’s Yours” by T La Rock and Jazzy Jay. He and Simmons soon built Def Jam into one of hip hop’s most influential labels, releasing early records by LL Cool J, the Beastie Boys, Public Enemy, and Run-DMC.
Rubin’s role was primarily creative and production-focused, while Simmons handled much of the business and artist-management work. This division helped Def Jam combine a raw independent sound with professional promotion.
A common mix-up is crediting Simmons alone with founding Def Jam. Simmons was central to the label’s creation, but Rubin was his co-founder. Rubin later left Def Jam and became a major producer across rock, metal, country, and pop as well as rap.