Condolences To The Family of Shakir Stewart and The Entire DEF JAM Organization

[Amber Walls]

On Saturday afternoon November 1, 2008, while we were all attending The New Music Seminar here in Cleveland, OH, Shakir Stewart President of Def Jam decided to end his life. He was found in his bathroom in Marietta, GA with an self-inflicted gun shot wound to the head. He was transported to a local hospital where was pronouced dead. Shakir was 34 years old
Mr. Stewart is credited with helping to put Atlanta's music scene on the map through his party promotions firm and Noontime Entertainment production company that helped bring producer Jazze Pha to the front. He is also responsible for signing Young Jeezy, Rick Ross, Beyonce's publishing deal, and numerous other MAJOR deals. After being with Def Jam for four years he accepted the president position after Jay-Z resigned in December of last year.

He was described as a happy go lucky type of guy who's actions over the past few weeks were on the contrary. His fiancee, Michelle Rivers, released a joint statement with his family on Sunday that said that,"over the past several weeks, Shakir's behavior was inconsistent with the man we all know and love. As much as we all tried to help him, Shakir was in deep pain and largely suffering in silence."

Shakir was highly respected in the game and word in Cleveland spread quick Saturday evening being as though many of the powerful higer ups were right here Cleveland for The New Music Seminar. For example if anyone was looking for Lenny S. throughout the night, he bailed from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame V.I.P party straight to the airport back to NYC soon as he received the news.

Damn. Life is real yall.

Peace and respect to his legacy.

2one6