By Odeisel

History is a quirky thing, less subject  to the events themselves than dependent on the goodwill of those that tell the tale. More often than not, the victor controls how the story is told while those on the wrong side get to watch in frustration. It’s hard to find witnesses to history that lack the vested interest that so often skews the story. The Planet has managed to find such an individual to help us finish our coverage on the history of Def Jam: Bill Adler.

Bill was the original publicist for Rush Communications and Def Jam and was there from the very beginning.  For six years, Bill contributed to the rise of our DEFinitive label through the development of artists, the original CBS distribution deal, the initial wave of journalism covering Hip-Hop and many more things crucial to the development of this artform and culture as a commodity.

He wrote the intro for both the original 15 year anniversary set and the newly released 25 year commemorative set. His recall is uncanny and he stands even now as a servant and friend to this culture. Without further ado, it is my distinct honor and pleasure to be able to allow Bill to tell this story in his words.  Please listen and take note.  I promise you won’t find things like this on any other site.

The origins of Def Jam

Russell Simmons and his understanding of the cultural aspect of the music.

Making artists media savvy and the building of their brand

 Public Enemy Controversy with Professor Griff

The Long Beach Raising Hell Riot of 1986

Upon his departure from all that is Def, Bill took a different path and opened an art studio dedicated to the Hip-Hop image. You can see some of those incredible indelibles at www.eyejammie.com. He currently sits on the board of advisors on the National Museum of Hip-Hop.

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