Def Jam head Shakir Stewart dead

Shakir Stewart, the Executive Vice President of Def Jam Records has been found dead of what is reported to be a self inflicted gun shot wound.

Def Jam Records is a popular hip-hop record label owned by Universal Music Group and is responsible for leading artists such as Rihanna and R&B singer Ne-Yo, as was previously the home of Jay-Z.

Stewart, who succeeded Jay-Z into his current position at Def Jam in June began started his career in music during the 1980s promoting concerts for Too Short, Nas and Scarface. While at Def Jam, Stewart signed Rick Ross, Young Jeezy and Karina Pasian.

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