July 16, 2009 - The freedom to dictate his musical direction provided the motivation for famed reggae/dancehall artist Beenie Man to align with New York-based independent record label Brookland Ent/Universal Republic. According to the Kingston, Jamaica native, transitioning from a major label to an independent was a no-brainer, considering his track record with well-known labels.

“Being signed to a major label, you lose creative control,” Beenie Man said, as he cited Brookland president Eric Nicks’ track record as a music industry veteran as a factor in his decision to make the label his new recording home. Beenie Man’s joint venture deal with Brookland/Universal marks a new chapter in his near 30-year career in music.

The Grammy winner, whose first major deal came with Virgin Records in 1998, is known for a string of hits that include "Dude,” “Who Am I,” "Girls Dem Sugar," and “King of the Dancehall.”