Grammy-winning producer Hit-Boy recently revealed that he had been bound to the same publishing deal with Universal Music Group (UMG) since he was just 19 years old. Now 38, the producer shared during an episode of The Shop that he was only able to begin renegotiating the terms after receiving support from JAY-Z and Roc Nation.
TheRocSupremacy, an X fan account focused on JAY-Z, posted a clip of Hit-Boy’s appearance and pointed out both the length of the contract and Roc Nation’s role in changing it.
That post kicked off a wave of online conversation on X (formerly Twitter), with responses ranging from criticism of Hit-Boy’s former deal to praise for JAY-Z’s role in helping artists regain ownership. Some users questioned how such a long-standing contract could last so long; others emphasized how rare it is to see influential figures step in and shift the balance of power behind the scenes.
But beyond the back-and-forth, a deeper narrative emerged. One rooted in community and collective power: when Black artists and executives back each other, real change happens.
This is what “We Got Us” looks like.
Roc Nation, a Black-owned entertainment company, has repeatedly played a quiet but powerful role in helping artists challenge legacy contracts, fight for autonomy, and reclaim publishing and ownership. In Hit-Boy’s case, that support opened the door to ending a decades-long deal that likely no longer reflected his value.
The conversation underscores ongoing tensions in the industry over long-term contracts, publishing rights, and artist autonomy, particularly for Black artists navigating major label systems. As more musicians come forward about their experiences, the role of influential figures like JAY-Z in shifting contract dynamics continues to draw both attention and debate.
Hit-Boy recently shared that he’s been stuck in his original co-publishing deal for 19 years.
— Z (@BrianZisook) July 13, 2025
That’s not a typo. 19.
How does this happen?
Let’s go over how co-pub deals work and the best alternative available 🧵 https://t.co/4GniBzwjqU
