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.

Over the years, labels have come and gone. However, those that have stood tall against competition are the ones that are famous today. This list, in no particular order, expounds on some of them and their associated artists. Many renowned labels began in the nineties and at the turn 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.

The next label to look into is Aftermath. It is widely acknowledged for playing a major role in the serialization of Shady Records. Aftermath was founded in 1996 by the billionaire artist cum businessman Dr. Dre. Back in the days, he used to be a mentor to Eminem. He is renowned for anchoring Eminem into mainstream music through this label.

Many fans of this genre also like to mention Death Row Records when talking about the greatest brand names in the industry. Its artists are globally known to be talented and classic. The thing that strikes the most about its artists is that they are unique. After the deaths of famous rappers Tupac and Biggie, the recording house was stalked in controversy.

A worthy mention is the Def Jam Music Group. Its widespread influence can be felt in all corners of the globe. Notable acts under it include Ja Rule, Beastie Boys, Nas, DMX and Jay Z. In the early 2000s, new prospects such as Pusha T, Rick Ross, Kanye West and Young Jeezy joined the group and excelled through it. Its many global accolades arguably crown it as the best modern recording ensemble.

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.

Maybach Music Group caps the list. Rick Ross is its acknowledged founder. Despite its excellent music, its distribution platform is handled by Atlantic Records. Maybach has signed talented rappers like Ross himself, Wale, Omarion and Meek Mill. It has so far released twenty one albums since its first debut one in 2009.

There are many other recording houses that look quite promising. It can be said with certainty that the industry looks bright for all who want to venture into it either as musicians or investors. Only time will tell if this will hold true.




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