A Def Jam record executive commits suicide

Shakir Stewart, executive vice president of Def Jam Records, committed suicide during the weekend.  Police said his body was found in his bathroom at his home near Atlanta. Police believe that he shot himself. 

His fiance Michelle Rivers released a statement that said, “We would like to thank Shakir’s friends for the tremendous outpouring of love and support we have received during this difficult time.  It has helped us to cope with our overwhelming grief and sadness. It is difficult to express or explain in words what led to the tragic occurrence on Saturday. Over the past several weeks, Shakir’s behavior was inconsistent with the man we all know and love. As much as we all tried to help him, Shakir was in deep pain and largely suffering in silence. Please remember Shakir for who he was … a wonderful father, partner, son and friend.”

It seemed like this man had everything going for him. He was engaged to be married, he was a father, and he has been a successful music executive for most of his life.

Throughout his career, he was responsible for signing Beyonce, Ciara, Young Jeezy and Rick Ross.

I’m not sure what pushed him man over the edge, and we’ll probably never find out, but it looks like he had a lot to live for. He was 34-years-old…..RIP.

Tim Henley