Photo Credit: Def Jam Recordings
Def Jam Recordings is celebrating its 40th anniversary with a new free, ad-supported TV (FAST) channel—the first of its kind in the United States.
The new channel will feature both long-form and short-form content including music videos, documentaries, and live performances. Celebrated artists like LL Cool J, Mariah Carey, John Legend, and DMX are just some of the artists who will be featured on the channel.
“The Def Jam channel will be the culmination of a year of anniversary celebrations for the groundbreaking record label,” says Def Jam in a statement about the new TV channel. “It also marks the first time a major UMG label will program their own television channel directly for fans.
The free, ad-supported channel will be available on Tubi for viewers in the United States; those outside the U.S. can view the channel on Samsung TV+. Def Jam celebrated its 40th anniversary with several events including a special show on Apple TV and pop-up booths at events in Los Angeles and Las Vegas.
“Over the last 40 years, Def Jam has consistently led the charge in pioneering new ways for our artists to celebrate their creativity and connect with fans,” adds Def Jam Chairman and CEO Tunji Balogun. “As we continue to evolve in the music landscape, we are excited to partner with Tubi in an effort to reach new audiences by embracing dynamic, innovative platforms.”
In addition to the FAST channel, new music-focused advertising-supported video on demand (AVoD) offerings from UMG-owned production company Mercury Studios will allow Tubi viewers to watch Def Jam artists’ content on-demand.
“As we progress in the FAST space, it only makes sense to have Def Jam, which continues to be at the forefront of the cultural conversation, spearhead the first-ever music partnership and branded channel with Tubi,” says Charlene Thomas, Senior VP of Marketing & Special Projects at Def Jam Recordings.
“FAST channels like these can give artists the ability to reach fans easily and build lasting relationships with audiences. We are excited to partner with such definitive industry leaders, Tubi and Def Jam, to bring this new channel to life,” adds Dan Borrelli, Mercury’s Senior VP of Digital Content & Partnerships.