There have been some big changes over at Def Jam. The label, which is currently celebrating it’s 30 year anniversary, officially cut ties with Island earlier this year, to once again become just Def Jam Records (no longer Island Def Jam or IDJ). Now, one of the labels biggest stars ever, Rihanna, who Jay Z signed to Def Jam in 2005, has reportedly made a big move of her own. Although some rumors were recently whispered around town, the “Diamonds” singer has quietly cut ties with Def Jam, and moved over to Roc Nation, as her label and management company.
Rihanna first signed with Roc Nation for management in 2010, but very recently her profile on their website has been updated to specify that she’s not just managed but officially signed to the label. Meanwhile, the Def Jam website now lists Rihanna under their “Legacy” section, along with folks like Amerie, Ashanti, and Slick Rick.
According to Complex, Rihanna’s publicists at 42 West have yet to confirm the move, but inside sources confirmed to them that Rihanna is now a Roc Nation artist—signed to both the label and the management company.
MTV News has reported that the label change actually occurred back in April 2013, when Roc Nation partnered with Universal Music Group. According to their source, Def Jam will still play a role in the marketing and promotion of Rihanna’s new music. She is technically a Roc Nation artist, but it is unclear whether the Def jam logo will appear on her next release.
RiRi is reportedly working on two albums for release later this year. Her 8th studio LP, and a concept album for the upcoming animated film Home, which she has a starring role in.
