9/26/2008

Jay-Z and Stargate Form Label

I know I'm extra late on getting this to you guys, but I thought it would be finally necessary to put in today's posts since there is some major buzz going around about this deal.

Jay-Z and Norwegian songwriting/production duo Stargate have joined forces under the StarRoc banner, which will encompass a record label and publishing company under Jay-Z's Roc Nation venture with Live Nation.

According to the principals, "the focus is to find new talent and develop artists through mutually beneficial global partnerships which include music distribution, publishing, touring and merchandising.

"Stargate (Tor Erik Hermansen and Mikkel S. Eriksen) has been behind several big hits for artists Jay-Z nurtured while president of Def Jam, including Rihanna and Ne-Yo. The duo is currently represented on the Hot 100 by Ne-Yo's "Closer" (No. 7), Rihanna's "Take a Bow" (No. 27) and Jennifer Hudson's "Spotlight" (No. 41).Stargate work will be heard on upcoming albums from Lindsay Lohan, Beyonce, Monica, R. Kelly and Keyshia Cole. As for Jay-Z, his new album, “Blueprint 3,” is expected before year’s end. It’s his last under contract for Def Jam before he begins recording for Live Nation.

But from what I'm hearing, the biggest news about this deal is the mere notion that Jay-Z wants to pick up Janet Jackson since she's left Island Def Jam, and 50 Cent. Janet... now I can see that one going down. But 50! Uh uh! We know 50 is his own man, and before he goes and has to answer to Jay, he'll create his own label and answer to no one but himself!

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