Def Jam HHV Records 177 Items

In celebration of hip-hop’s 50th anniversary, the iconic Def Jam Recordings brings us some of its classic repertoire on vinyl in a spectacular “fruit punch” variant – a color emblematic of its longstanding association with Def Jam. Some titles include Public Enemy’s Yo! Bum Rush the Show, Ludacris’ Word of Mouf, Method Man’s Tical, and Slick Rick’s The Great Adventures of Slick Rick.

Vinyl LP pressing. Jesus Is King is the ninth studio album by American rapper and producer Kanye West. It was originally released on October 25, 2019, through GOOD Music and distributed by Def Jam Recordings. The album follows a Christian theme, with West describing it as "an expression of the gospel."

Summertime '06 is the highly anticipated two-segment studio debut from Long Beach, CA rapper Vince Staples best known as one-third of Cutthroat Boyz. Executive produced by trailblazing producer and Def Jam Recordings executive Dion "No I.D." Wilson, the album touches on events that happened in his life in the summer of 2006 at the age of 13 and onward. With Summertime '06 Staples delivers the type of introspective reality-based street lyricism that has made him one of rap's rising stars. Hailed by Pitchfork as the Best New Music of 2015, Segment 1 features 10 tracks from the 20-track double album and includes the preceding singles "Senorita," and "Norf Nort."Love will tear us apart. Nov 30th, 2005 was the beginning of the loss. The following summer multiplied it. Beaten paths, crowded with the hopeless. Same song every day, listening to the words of a dead man destroyed by his own mind and body. Why? Because at the end of the day we're all dead anyway. At least where I come from. Love tore us all apart. Love for self, love for separation, love for the little we all had, love for each other, where we came from. Jabari, Chris, Shard, Tom, Richy, Tyson, Tony, Shelly, Phil, Marcel, Brandon, Steve, Jaron, Tay. Too many to name, too much to forget. Some lost to prison, some lost to Forest Lawn, some turned snitch. Some still here but it will never be the same. Bandanas, Stealing Levis and Nike Sb's. Derringers and Sidekicks. Its crazy how little you notice and how greatly those things impact. Summer of 2006, the beginning of the end of everything I thought I knew. Youth was stolen from my city that Summer and Im left alone to tell the story. This might not make sense but that's because none of it does, we're stuck. Love tore us all apart. Summertime '06, June 30th." - Vince StaplesVince Staples – Summertime '06 (Segment 1)

OFWGKTA's own Frank Ocean releases his 1st album on Def Jam. Looks like Andre 3000, John Mayer and Earl Sweatshirt are with him!

Jhen Aiko - "Souled Out" [Blue Lagoon 2 LP] Jhene Aiko's debut studio album, Souled Out, was released on September 9, 2014, under Def Jam Records and ARTium Recordings. The album delves into themes of enlightenment during heartbreak, relationships, and personal obstacles. The album is influenced by old-school R&B, hip-hop, and psychedelic sounds, complemented by her soulful and smooth vocals. The album features tracks "W.A.Y.S, " "Promises, " "To Love & Die" and more. 2 LP set on blue lagoon color vinyl with the original tracklist. [Blue Lagoon 2 LP]Def Jam Recordings; Def Jam; R&B; Catalog Limited Edition. EXPLICIT

2023 repress.

Official and limited reissue on Def Jam. Previously released as a 2LP set, this version has now been converted to 1LP, in addition to a limited edition CE color vinyl version.

Undun is the tenth studio album by The Roots, released on December 6, 2011. It is a concept album that tells the tragic, reverse-chronological story of a fictional character named Redford Stephens, a young man who becomes involved in a life of crime and meets an untimely death. The album explores the themes of fate, choice, and the socio-economic pressures that lead individuals into cycles of poverty, crime, and existential struggle.

Undun is told in reverse order, beginning with Redford’s death and slowly moving back through the key moments of his life that led to his demise. This structure provides a reflective, somber narrative, examining the forces that shaped his decisions and eventual downfall.
The album’s narrative structure emphasizes the sense of inevitability and regret, making it a powerful meditation on the fragility of life and the consequences of choices.
The character of Redford Stephens was inspired by a piece of music by composer Sufjan Stevens, titled "Redford (For Yia-Yia and Pappou)." This instrumental track is reinterpreted and appears toward the end of the album, underscoring its emotional weight.

Musically, Undun is a mix of hip-hop, neo-soul, orchestral elements, and art rock. The production is lush yet sparse, with haunting melodies, complex arrangements, and The Roots' trademark live instrumentation.
Questlove’s drumming and Black Thought’s lyricism are central to the album, with the music often using minimalist beats and atmospheric soundscapes to complement the lyrical themes of existential despair and reflection.
The album also features moments of instrumental interludes, which add to the cinematic and conceptual feel of the project.

Key Tracks and Highlights:
"Sleep" – The album’s opening track (which depicts the final moment of Redford’s life) is introspective and haunting. Black Thought raps about the moments before death, with lyrics like "I’ve lost a lot of sleep to dreams" capturing the sense of hopelessness and inevitability.
"Make My" (featuring Big K.R.I.T.) – This single features a melancholic beat and lyrics that delve into regret and introspection, with Big K.R.I.T.'s verse complementing Black Thought’s meditations on life and death.
"One Time" (featuring Phonte and Dice Raw) – A standout track that focuses on the idea of seizing moments and making choices, set to a gritty, understated beat. Black Thought and guest rapper Phonte trade verses, exploring themes of existential crisis and fleeting opportunities.
"Kool On" (featuring Greg Porn and Truck North) – One of the lighter, more groove-driven tracks on the album, yet still reflective, with lyrics addressing Redford’s attempts to navigate the temptations and pressures of street life.
"The Otherside" – A soul-stirring track that looks at the crossroads between life and death, with deeply philosophical lyrics. Black Thought’s introspective verse, combined with Dice Raw’s somber chorus, reflects the haunting struggle between moral choices and survival.
"Tip the Scale" – A reflection on the difficulty of breaking free from the cyclical patterns of poverty and crime, with Black Thought delivering some of the most emotionally raw and philosophical verses on the album.
"Redford" (the instrumental suite) – A moving four-part instrumental conclusion, drawing from Sufjan Stevens' original composition. This suite, made up of piano, strings, and drums, evokes the emotional depth of Redford’s life and his ultimate fate.

Existentialism and Free Will: The album continually questions the role of fate versus choice. Redford’s life is portrayed as a series of decisions that, while influenced by his environment, ultimately lead to his downfall, raising questions about whether he had any real control over his fate.
Social Injustice and Poverty: Many of the lyrics explore how systemic injustice, poverty, and lack of opportunity can push individuals into lives of crime. The album highlights the harsh realities faced by young Black men in America, grappling with the intersections of race, class, and violence.
Regret and Reflection: Much of the album has a reflective, mournful tone as Black Thought and other guest vocalists deliver verses that look back at life’s moments, filled with what-ifs and regrets, exploring the loss of potential and the weight of past decisions.
Production and Collaborations:
The album is largely produced by The Roots themselves, with Questlove overseeing much of the production. The minimalist yet atmospheric production style mirrors the album’s darker themes, with an emphasis on live instruments.
Undun includes collaborations with Big K.R.I.T., Phonte, Dice Raw, Truck North, and Greg Porn, all of whom contribute to the narrative through their verses and vocal contributions.

Undun received widespread critical acclaim for its ambitious concept, narrative depth, and emotional resonance. Critics praised the album for its cohesive storytelling, complex themes, and innovative production.
Many hailed it as one of The Roots' best albums, with its conceptual depth and musical sophistication setting it apart from conventional hip-hop albums.
The album was noted for its maturity and introspective tone, marking a departure from The Roots’ earlier, more outwardly political works, and instead focusing on the internal struggles of the individual within a broken system.

Undun is often regarded as one of the best concept albums in hip-hop, comparable to works like Kendrick Lamar’s good kid, m.A.A.d city for its narrative depth and thematic richness.
The album’s reverse chronology and philosophical musings influenced other artists looking to explore more experimental and narrative-driven albums.
Undun reinforced The Roots' reputation as one of the most innovative and thoughtful acts in hip-hop, further blurring the lines between rap, live instrumentation, and high-concept artistry.

Undun is a deeply reflective and philosophical album, focusing on the life and fate of a character caught between the societal pressures and personal choices that ultimately lead to his demise. With its reverse storytelling, live instrumentation, and poignant lyricism, the album stands as one of The Roots’ most emotionally complex and musically innovative works. It challenges listeners to think deeply about the forces that shape lives and the fine line between survival and destruction.

Reissue of this Hip Hop classic for its 30th anniversary pressed on 180gram vinyl.

In celebration of hip-hop’s 50th anniversary, the iconic Def Jam Recordings brings us some of its classic repertoire on vinyl in a spectacular “fruit punch” variant – a color emblematic of its longstanding association with Def Jam. Some titles include Public Enemy’s Yo! Bum Rush the Show, Ludacris’ Word of Mouf, Method Man’s Tical, and Slick Rick’s The Great Adventures of Slick Rick.

Ludacris - "The Red Light District" [Translucent Red 2 LP] The Red Light District is Ludacris's fifth studio album released in 2004 under Def Jam Recordings. Ludacris blends beats deeply rooted in the Atlanta sound with his playful lyrical style, creating a unique rhythm that is distinctly his own. It boasts production from notable names like Timbaland, Craig King, Salaam Remi, and others. The album includes tracks "Blueberry Yum Yum," "Get Back," and "Number One Spot." The double-platinum album soared to the #1 spot on the Billboard 200 chart. Translucent Red 2 LP. Limited Edition. [Translucent Red 2 LP]

Vinyl Days is the highly anticipated seventh studio album from GRAMMY-nominated, multiplatinum artist Logic. Hosted by Funk Flex and driven by samples from the vinyl collection of MadLib collaborator, Egon, Vinyl Days boasts appearances from Wiz Khalifa, The Game, RZA, Action Bronson, Morgan Freeman, Earl Sweatshirt, Nardwaur, Anthony Fantano and more.

Celebrating the 25th anniversary of Beastie Boys’ 3× Platinum album Hello Nasty. This is a limited edition reissue of the rare deluxe 4LP version of the album that was released as an artist store exclusive in 2009. Long out-of-print and sought after by fans/collectors, it features two extra LPs (w/ 21 tracks) of bonus content, including remixes, live versions and B-sides (all of which are available at DSPs). The 4 LPs will be pressed on 180 gram vinyl and housed in a quad jacket inside a rigid slipcase. A sew-on patch is also included.

Celebrating the 30th Anniversary of Beastie Boys’ 2X Platinum Check Your Head album, this limited-edition deluxe reissue is a rare version of the album that was released as a limited run in 2009. Long out-of-print and sought after by fans and collectors, it features two bonus LP’s including remixes, live versions, and B-sides. Featuring the songs ‘So What’cha Want’, ‘Pass the Mic’ and ‘Gratitude’ - Check Your Head was a somewhat return to their punk roots and introduced the trio playing their own instruments for the first time on record since their early EP’s. This 4LP Deluxe Box Set is pressed on 180g vinyl housed in a fabric-wrapped, stamped hardcover case.

Limited double green vinyl LP pressing. Apocalypse 91... The Enemy Strikes Black is the fourth studio album from Public Enemy. It debuts production team Imperial Grand Ministers of Funk. The singles released from the album were "Can't Truss It," "Night Train," "Shut Em Down" and it's B-side "By the Time I Get to Arizona" (samples "Two Sisters of Mystery" by Mandrill and a live version of "Walk on By" by the Jackson 5). Continuing with it's Respect The Classics campaign UMe will be reissuing this classic on green vinyl. Also includes "Lost At Birth", "A Letter To The New York Post", "I Don't Wanna Be Called Yo Niga" and more.

Finally available as a super deluxe package, designed by acclaimed designer Ricardo Tisci of Givenchy. You'll get a gold embossed crossed shaped jacket, two picture disc set (Jay Z & Kanye West images) & a 24'' X 24'' (60 cm x 60 cm) Poster!

3rd Bass debut studio album, The Cactus Album was released on September 23, 1989, through Def Jam Recordings. This album blends old-school 80s hip-hop with a fresh 90s sound. It features tracks, "The Gas Face", "Step Into The Area" and more. The critically acclaimed album not only showcases 3rd Bass's lyrical genius but also solidifies their status as a significant influence in the history of hip-hop. The Cactus Album is now available on a Standard Black 2LP.

In celebration of hip-hop’s 50th anniversary, the iconic Def Jam Recordings brings us some of its classic repertoire on vinyl in a spectacular “fruit punch” variant – a color emblematic of its longstanding association with Def Jam. Some titles include Public Enemy’s Yo! Bum Rush the Show, Ludacris’ Word of Mouf, Method Man’s Tical, and Slick Rick’s The Great Adventures of Slick Rick.

The Roots, known for their innovative album concepts, return after a two year break to release their new album, Game Theory, filled with 14 hard hitting tracks that express their views on the state of the world. Game Theory is the Roots' most thought-provoking, incitive album since their 1999 breakthrough Things Fall Apart and will be the group's debut for Def Jam Recordings, home to the world's premiere Hip-Hop artists. This is the explicit LP version.

Def Jam - Vince Staples - Summertime '06 Segment 2

?uestlove says: 'Rising down is an electric record, more synthy. The darks are darker and the lights are lighter. But all I know is making quality hip-hop stylistically.' ... word!

YG's 2014 album, Blame It On The Streets, is the official soundtrack to the short film of the same name by the Compton rapper. The film and soundtrack highlight the rapper's life before his rise to fame. The soundtrack features remixes of the popular tracks "BPT" and "Bicken Back Being Bool" from YG's debut album, My Krazy Life. Available on translucent red color vinyl. Def Jam Recordings; Def Jam; Hip Hop/Soundtrack; Catalog Limited Edition. [Translucent Red LP] EXPLICIT

Big K.R.I.T's sophomore studio album, Cadillactica, debuted on November 10, 2014, under Def Jam Recordings and Cinematic Music Group. This album includes popular tracks such as "Pay Attention," "Cadillactica," and "Soul Food," along with the bonus track "Let It Show." Cadillactica is now available on a Violet 2LP vinyl pressing.

DMX - "Let Us Pray: Chapter X" [EP] Hip Hop legend DMX has always been vocal about his faith. Across his first six studio albums, which include numerous hits recognized in hip hop, are profound prayers which blend confessions, supplications and meditations on life, death and beyond. Grammy Award-winning songwriter and producer Warryn Campbell sets DMX's prayers to music for the first time on this groundbreaking project that marries hip hop and gospel with features from Killer Mike, Snoop Dogg, LeCrae, MC Lyte and more. Def Jam Recordings; Def Jam; Hip Hop.

Tical is the debut solo album from Wu-Tang Clan member Method Man. Released in 1994 on Def Jam Recordings, it was a commercial success reaching #4 on the Billboard 200 driven by it's two hit singles "Bring The Pain," and "I'll Be There For You/You're All I Need To Get By," featuring Mary J. Blige. 2 LP set on standard black vinyl.

\"The Women Of Def Jam" - Take a journey through time with the Women of Def Jam. This unique and groundbreaking Def Jam Recordings collection features the female artists that dominated Hip-Hop and R&B from the '90s to the present day. This project celebrates timeless classics that have reshaped the culture, featuring hits from Nikki D., Foxy Brown, Ashanti, Chrisette Michelle, Teyana Taylor, Alessia Cara, Rapsody, Danileigh, 070 Shake, Kaash Paige, Jhene Aiko, and more. 3 LP [Explicit Content]

Vinyl LP pressing. 2018 release. Kids See Ghosts is the debut studio album by hip hop duo Kids See Ghosts, composed of Kanye West and Kid Cudi. Prior to the album, West and Cudi enjoyed a strong relationship as close friends and musical allies since meeting in 2008, and expressed a desire to record a collaborative album. The album features guest contributions from Pusha T, Yasiin Bey and Ty Dolla Sign, as well as a vocal sample of Louis Prima, who is credited posthumously as a featured artist. It features prominent production from both members of the duo, with further contributions by Dot da Genius, Mike Dean, Evan Mast, Plain Pat, BoogzDaBeast, Benny Blanco, Jeff Bhasker, Justin Vernon, Noah Goldstein, Andrew Dawson, Cashmere Cat and André 3000, among others.

Vinyl LP pressing. 2018 release, the eighth studio album by rapper/producer Kanye West. The album features guest vocals by Ty Dolla Sign, PartyNextDoor, Kid Cudi, Jeremih and 070 Shake, among others. West produced the album in it's entirety, with additional production by Mike Dean, who serves as a co-executive producer, as well as Francis and the Lights, Benny Blanco, Irv Gotti, 7 Aurelius, Noah Goldstein, Che Pope, Caroline Shaw, Pi'erre Bourne and Ty Dolla Sign, among others. Ye is the second of five seven-track albums produced by West in what have been referred to as the "Wyoming Sessions". West explained the album title, which is a diminutive of his own name commonly used in his songs, by stating: "I believe "ye" is the most commonly used word in the Bible, and in the Bible it means "you". So, I'm you, I'm us, it's us. It went from Kanye, which means "the only one," to just Ye - just being a reflection of our good, our bad, our confused, everything. The album is more of a reflection of who we are."

LL Cool J's egotism is his m.o., his sex appeal, his greatest strength. He'd been on top of the world since he started scoring hits as a teenager, but anyone who's been in the rap game for five years, as he'd been when Mama arrived, has something to prove. So he came out swinging-literally-with the title track, which claims boxing trash talk as proto-rap and turns it into a declaration of ongoing mastery. Beyond that, Mama, with it's ultra-hard Marley Marl production, pumps up his love-man rep (the sweetly affectionate "Around the Way Girl" and an even hornier remix of "Jingling Baby") and his ego (pretty much everything else). It's mostly just old-school boasting, but damn if it isn't deserved.

Collector's vinyl edition, with a special "fade to black" 3D cover that, when turned to the left or right, turns black, with just the band's iconic cross-hairs visible.

Vinyl LP pressing. Long-awaited 2010 album from Hip Hop pioneers The Roots. The album, which takes it's name from Clara Ward's Gospel classic, is The Roots' first new release since joining Late Night with Jimmy Fallon for a full time gig as the show's house band. Grammy Award winners The Roots characterize the songs on the album as "depicting the everyman's search for hope in this dispiriting post-hope zeitgeist". The lead single, "Dear God 2.0.", re-imagines the Monsters of Folk song "Dear God" and features MOF members Yim Yames from My Morning Jacket, Conor Oberst and Mike Mogis from Bright Eyes and M. Ward. Also includes two appearances from Grammy-winning Soul man John Legend. Other guests on HIGO include Joanna Newsom, Blu, Peedi Peedi, Mercedes Martinez, Icelandic alt-pop singer Patty Crash, newcomer Sugar Tongue Slim as well as long time Roots' Crew members Dice Raw, Truck North and P.O.R.N.

DMX - "... And Then There Was X" [Black Ice 2 LP] ... And Then There Was X, the third and best-selling album by DMX, released in 1999 by Ruff Ryders Entertainment and Def Jam Recordings. Certified 5x platinum, the album was nominated for Best Rap Album at the 2001 Grammys. 2 LP set pressed on black ice color vinyl.