Jay Z owns Roc Nation Records, which he founded in 2008 after leaving his role as president and CEO of Def Jam Recordings. However, this isn't his first venture into the record label business. He previously founded Roc-A-Fella Records in 1995 alongside Damon Dash and Kareem "Biggs" Burke.

Roc Nation Records operates as a full-service entertainment company, not just a traditional record label. The company handles artist management, music publishing, touring, and production, alongside its record label operations. It's currently home to some of the biggest names in music, including Rihanna, J. Cole, and Willow Smith.

What makes Roc Nation unique is its partnership structure with Live Nation Entertainment, established through a $150 million deal in 2008. This joint venture gives the label significant advantages in tour promotion and event management.

The label's success stems from Jay Z's business acumen and industry experience. Under his leadership, Roc Nation has expanded beyond music into sports management, television production, and fashion, making it one of the most influential entertainment companies in the world.

Here's a breakdown of Jay Z's record label ownership timeline:

1995-2007: Roc-A-Fella Records (Co-founder)
2004-2007: President and CEO of Def Jam Recordings
2008-present: Roc Nation Records (Founder and Owner)

While Roc-A-Fella Records was eventually sold to Def Jam Recordings, Roc Nation remains Jay Z's primary record label venture, operating independently with distribution through Universal Music Group.

Through these record labels, Jay Z has helped launch and develop numerous successful artists' careers, while simultaneously building his own business empire in the music industry. His ownership of Roc Nation has been instrumental in establishing his position as one of hip-hop's most successful entrepreneurs.

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