Swizz Beatz is trying to change the image of Ruff Ryders Entertainment. For years the label has had distribution deals with various labels. Aside from Ruff Ryders, Swizz Beatz is also the head of his own label, Full Surface. In an effort to reorganize, Swizz Beatz has decided to place his label, Full Surface, as a sub-label to the bigger Ruff Ryders label.
Not only is he trying to land an exclusive distribution deal for Ruff Ryders, but Swizz Beatz is also looking to expand the roster. He has been working with DMX, who has an album to come out later this year. Outside of DMX, Swizz Beatz is trying to sign The L.O.X. and each of the members to a solo deal. Jadakiss wants The L.O.X. on Ruff Ryders.
Jadakiss is already on Ruff Ryders, but he wants the rest of his crew on the label, too. Swizzy has been talking with Styles P and Sheek Louch for the past few months. Given their long-established relationship, it should not be too much of a hassle to have these artists signed with his label. But, when money is being thrown around, the highest bidder wins.
Sheek Louch was releasing his solo albums with Koch Records not so long ago. Actually, his last album was released through Koch. During this time, Swizz Beatz and Ruff Ryders had almost no one signed to their roster. However, since last fall, they have been working hard to rebuild their roster. Swizz Beatz has Jadakiss and is close to having The L.O.X.
However, one artist that he will not have on a solo deal is Sheek Louch. Three days ago, Sheek Louch reached a surprising deal with Def Jam. The next three albums from Sheek Louch will be released on Def Jam. There is a slim chance that Ruff Ryders will have some input on his records, but he will not be primarily signed to them.
Swizz Beatz is still likely to produce the next album from Sheek Louch.