Def Jam Exec Who Replaced Jay-Z is Dead

Shakir Stewart, the executive that succeeded Jay-Z at the helm of Def Jam has died. Stewart was senior VP of A&R at the legendary hip-hop emporium. According to various sources, he died on Saturday from self-inflicted gunshot wound. Def Jam released a statement about the sad loss.

"LA Reid and all of us at Island Def Jam Music Group are deeply saddened by the passing of our dear friend and colleague Shakir Stewart," said the statement. "Shakir was an amazing man, in every sense of the word. A truly incredible friend and father who was an inspiration to not only our artists and employees, but to his family and the many people who had the privilege of counting him as a friend. Our hearts and prayers go out to his family at this very difficult time."

Stewart signed such artists as Rick Ross, Young Jeezy, to the label before taking over the post once held by Jay-Z in June.