DJ KHALED, WE THE BEST HEAD TO DEF JAM

DJ Khaled and his We the Best imprint are moving to Def Jam. Under the new partnership, the Grammy-winning producer will also serve as a global creative consultant for the entire UMG family of artists. He'll release his follow-up to 2022's chart-topping GOD DID on Def Jam as well as subsequent releases by We the Best artists.

Previously signed to Epic, Khaled has amassed global sales of more than 20m singles and 6m albums and racked up 4b+ streams over the course of his career.

"DJ Khaled is a great artist, hitmaker, mentor and cultural innovator," UMG CEO Sir Lucian Grainge said. "It gives me great pleasure to welcome him home to UMG, where we look forward to working together to amplify his brilliant creative instincts and unique vision.”

Def Jam CEO/Chairman Tunji Balogun (pictured at left) added, “Beyond being a proven hitmaker, incredible producer, undeniable artist and consummate showman, DJ Khaled occupies the rarified air of a cultural icon. His uncanny ability to continuously have his finger on the pulse of the culture, to reach audiences all over the world in innovative yet authentic ways and his remarkable savvy for marketing, promoting and making an event of everything he touches is absolutely second to none."

"DJ Khaled has been a dear friend and close collaborator for over a decade," read a quote from Def Jam Recordings/4th & Broadway President LaTrice Burnette (right). "Throughout our years together at Epic, he and I developed a special working bond and broke barriers through a united vision, focused partnership and hard work. I have a tremendous respect for Khaled’s artistry, creativity, work ethic, marketing savvy and boundless positive energy. I’m thrilled to welcome him home to Def Jam and can’t wait to see what we cook up next."

DJ Khaled performed "GOD DID" alongside JAY-Z, Lil Wayne, John Legend, Fridayy and Rick Ross at the 2023 Grammys where he was nominated for six awards.

In related news, the good DJ was honored with both the key to the city of Miami and the key to Miami Beach in recognition of his ongoing work in the community. By proclamation, 2/9 is now recognized as We the Best Day in Miami and 11/26 will be Khaled Khaled Day in Miami Beach.

We, for certain, are still the worst.