What Had Happened Was

Cannibal Ox's Cold Vein and the Rise of Def Jux

14 snips
Apr 14, 2021
An underground rap artist, Mr. Lif, and talented artists RJD2 and Aesop Rock from the Def Jux label join El-P to discuss the launch of the legendary record label. They talk about meeting Cannibal Ox, putting together the classic debut album 'The Cold Vein', and unleashing it on the world.
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ANECDOTE

El-P Starts Def Jux Label

  • El-P decided to start his own label after being soured by his previous label, Raucous.
  • He wanted creative control and to avoid mainstream compromises he disliked.
INSIGHT

Non-Mainstream Market Potential

  • El-P believed there was a market for non-mainstream hip-hop if faith and funding supported it.
  • He aimed to create a tent for innovative artists without compromising musical vision for mainstream acceptance.
ANECDOTE

Def Jux Roster from Underground

  • El-P built the Def Jux roster through relationships from the underground rap scene.
  • He signed artists like Mr. Lif, RJD2, and Aesop Rock based on mutual respect and creative synergy.
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