Def Jam Executive Vice President Shakir Stewart, who replaced Jay-Z at the helm of the label and signed such artists as Rick Ross and Young Jeezy, died Saturday (November 1). According to reports, he died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Further details were not available at press time.

A native of Oakland, California, Stewart was appointed executive vice president in June, which he called his dream job. A graduate of Atlanta’s Morehouse College, he previously worked at Hitco Music Publishing, to which he signed Beyoncé, according to Billboard.com. He was an A&R consultant at LaFace Records from 2000 to 2004 and signed Ciara to the label. He recently signed up-and-coming artists Rocko and Karina Pasian to Def Jam.

Stewart succeeded Jay-Z, who resigned his post at Def Jam in December of last year, in June. He told Billboard at the time that his goal was to help develop “new, young executives … the hot executive who’s 21, 22 years old and has a serious passion for music and the desire to work 27 hours a day. That’s where I was at that time in my life. And that’s who I’m looking to mentor. I don’t see many people like that. Instead, I see a lot of kids who want to live the lifestyle but don’t want to put in the work and do what it takes.”

On a personal note, Shakir, or “Shake,” as his friends call him, was one of the coolest. Saturday night on Atlanta radio, legendary DJ and longtime friend Greg Street saluted him.

Authorities investigating the matter could not be reached for comment at press time.

Related posts:

1. Shakir Stewart linked to BMF? Rumor has is that the streets of the D...
2. The Dream Def Jams New Executive Vice President President of Island Def Jam Records Wednesday through his...
3. Rihanna Sued For $650K Over Copywritten Song, Michael Jackson Named In Suit Grammy-winning singer Rihanna has been sued for $650,000 over a...
4. President Bush Issues Pardon For Rapper John Forte President George W. Bush has pardoned rapper John Forte,...
5. 22nd Annual ASCAP Rhythm and Soul Music Awards Pictures from last nights 22nd Annual ASCAP Rhythm and Soul...