US rapper Jay-Z has parted company with Def Jam record in order to become an independent artist.

The rapper signed a distribution deal with the label in 1997, before later becoming the company's chief executive.

In an interview with RapRadar, Jay-Z said his time with the label had been “unique and fulfilling”.

He also paid special tribute to Def Jam's Doug Reid for “allowing me to be a completely independent artist”.

“Not every artist can say they own or are given the opportunity to own all of their music," Jay-Z added.

During his time as Def Jam's CEO the rapper signed a host of chart stars, including Ne-Yo and Rihanna.

The rapper is currently working on 'Blueprint 3' alongside fellow hip hop star Kanye West.

(by Jason Gregory)