Assembly Resolution No. 761

BY: M. of A. Cruz

COMMEMORATING the 40th Anniversary of Def Jam
Recordings, Hip-Hop's most iconic and influential
New York Record Label

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
honor creative institutions who have had a significant impact on the
arts and culture of our communities; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate the 40th Anniversary of Def Jam Recordings, Hip-Hop's most
iconic and influential New York Record Label; and

WHEREAS, Def Jam Recordings, founded in 1984 by two young New York
entrepreneurs in the Weinstein Residence Hall of New York University,
has been the preeminent record label at the forefront of Hip-Hop music
and culture for four decades; and

WHEREAS, Def Jam Recordings is credited with uniting the sounds of
Disco, Rock and Roll, and Punk music and igniting the then nascent genre
of Hip-Hop; and WHEREAS, The investment and expertise of Def Jam
Recordings launched the careers of dozens of Hip-Hop, R&B, and popular
music legends and icons, including LL Cool J, Slick Rick, The Beastie
Boys, Public Enemy, Jay-Z, DMX, Ja Rule, Method Man, Redman, Ludacris,
Rihanna, Jeezy, Justin Bieber, Alessia Cara, Logic, Pusha T, Jadakiss,
Jeremih, Big Sean, YG, 2 Chainz, Dave East, Jhene Aiko, and many others;
and

WHEREAS, Def Jam Recordings continues to innovate, invest, and
promote sustainable music careers and entrepreneurial opportunities for
Hip-Hop pioneers, while empowering future generations of artists,
producers, and lyricists in their pursuit to define the next era of Hip
Hop; and

WHEREAS, Def Jam Recordings embodies New York City's vibrant art
scene and street culture; and

WHEREAS, Def Jam Recordings is now a global brand - synonymous with
creativity, quality, and authenticity - trumpeting Hip-Hop music and
culture around the world; and

WHEREAS, Def Jam Recordings' music has often placed a spotlight on
societal ills, and been a driving force for meaningful cultural change;
and

WHEREAS, Def Jam Recordings produces significant contributions to
the State's economy and workforce; and

WHEREAS, Def Jam Recordings brings great pride to both the music
industry and the citizens of this great Empire State; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body has deep appreciation for the
exceptional achievements of Def Jam Recordings, and wishes them
continued success for decades to come; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate and thank Def Jam Recordings for four decades of artistic
excellence and cultural export; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Def Jam Recordings.