Ever since Jay-Z
resigned as Def Jam’s President earlier this year there has been much
speculation as to who will take his place. Well now all the questions have been
answered as Def Jam has announced Shakir
Stewart as its new acting president. Who? Let me fill you in.

Stewart has been in the Def Jam building for more than five
years now with his last position being senior VP of A&R. Stewart got his
start in the music business being a show promoter and moved onto all other
aspects of the game including music publishing and artist development.

It is this all facets knowledge of the industry that Def Jam
C.E.O. LA Reid said made Shakir a cinch for the position. “The bold young
management style that Shakir has established at Def Jam is one of the major
reasons behind the label’s success today.”  L.A. Reid said in a
statement. “From his solid roots in music publishing, he has grown to
master the world of hip-hop and urban music.”  

Stewart has tapped into artists in of all genres and has
signed or worked with a number of influential artists, including Destiny’s Child, Ciara, Outkast, Rick Ross,
Usher, and Young Jeezy just to
name a few.  Stewart, who hails from Oakland, says he is ready to carry
the flag for Def Jam.  “The past four years have been an
unforgettable experience for me,” Stewart said. “Having the
opportunity to work with a brilliant music man such as L.A. Reid, along with
the most amazing team in the music business, has afforded me the knowledge and
inspiration to take the next step in my career and continue to amplify and
expand Def Jam’s stellar reputation in the industry.”  

Although he will have a number of responsibilities sources
say his main priorities will be in signing new talent, overseeing producers,
and guiding the creative vision of the label.