Biography

Produced albums for artists as diverse as the Beastie Boys, Slayer , and Johnny Cash.

Co-founded Def Jam Recordings with Russell Simmons in 1984.

Has produced albums for a diverse slew of artists including Jay-Z, Beastie Boys, Run-D.M.C., Slayer, Johnny Cash, System of a Down, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Nine Inch Nails, Slipknot, Macy Gray, Geto Boys, LL Cool J, The Black Crowes, Eagle Eye Cherry, Public Enemy, Audioslave, Limp Bizkit, The Mars Volta, Sir Mix A Lot, The Cult, Glenn Danzig, The Bangles, Mick Jagger, and T La Rock.

Changed the name of Def American Recordings to American Recordings in 1993 when he found the word "def" in a dictionary.

Left Def Jam Recordings in 1988 and founded Def American Recordings.

When they started, there was no such thing as heavy metal and it feels like the whole genre is based on 'Black Sabbath'. It may not always have sounded the same, and it's gone through a lot of changes, and there's a lot of really interesting metal that sounds like 'Black Sabbath'. But it feels like they were probably the first with the idea that this dark, heavy music could be the whole trip.

I've gotten to work with amazing people. I would say usually we get to a point before we get into the studio where there isn't that sense of anxiety or nervousness of who they are because I don't think it would be as productive in the studio if that was the case. But maybe meeting someone like Neil Young for the first time made me anxious.

I never really think so much about commercial success; I usually just think about records that move me, and 'Baby Got Back' was one that moved me.

I don't know what makes someone hip. The goal is artist achievement and the best work we can do with no limitation.

I like things that are unique and extreme.