Def Jam had experienced near-continual upheaval ... Balogun’s first move was to reshape the roster. He scouted fresh talent, signing artists who would define the next wave of Black music.

Rising R&B singer Dende has signed a deal with Def Jam Recordings. He joins a roster that includes fellow R&B acts Jhené Aiko, Muni Long, Coco Jones, Fridayy, Chase Shakur, and more.