Question: What do Justin Bieber, the Beastie Boys, Slayer, and Public Enemy have in common? Answer: Def Jam Recordings!

From the streets of downtown New York City to the global community of the Peloton, Def Jam Recordings has consistently pushed the boundaries of music and culture. This year marks a milestone as the iconic label celebrates its 40th anniversary, and Peloton plans to honor their legacy with a series of special classes that bring to life the spirit of Def Jam.

A (Brief!) History of Def Jam Recordings

In 1983, Rick Rubin founded Def Jam Recordings with the help of his parents’ funding. Working out of his New York University dorm room, the young visionary had no idea he was about to create a powerhouse that would define a generation. The partnership with Russell Simmons, then already known for managing Run-D.M.C., was the spark that ignited a revolution in music. It was through iconic acts like the Beastie Boys, LL Cool J, and Public Enemy that the label simultaneously reflected and shaped the cultural landscape.

This milestone is a moment of reflection on the label’s storied past, its unshakable presence in hip-hop, and the open, progressive ways it has dealt with the times, never failing to strike a chord with the younger generation. Def Jam’s ability to identify talent and create historical moments truly sets it apart in the history of recorded music.

Peloton x Def Jam

This week, don’t just listen to the music, become one with it, and ride, run, or lift to the relentless beats and melodical hooks that have pulsated through speakers acting as the soundtrack of generations.

Peloton is giving you three ways to get your Jam on.  On Tuesday, March 19, count yourself in for a 20-minute Def Jams Recordings Full-Body Strength class led by Jermaine Johnson at 7AM (ET) / 11AM (GMT), followed by Kirsten Ferguson’s 20-minute Def Jam Recordings Run later that day at 7:30PM (ET).  The series wraps up with Robin Arzon cranking the resistance on your bike for 30-minutes of a Def Jam Ride on Friday, March 22 at 1PM (ET) / 5PM (GMT).

Whether you’re lifting to the beat of classic hip-hop tracks, running your way through the legendary sounds of Def Jam, or riding to the intense, adrenaline-inducing music that the label is known for, these classes will have you moving and motivated.  Count us in for that, for sure!

Ready to get the party started now?  Check out the official Def Jams 40th Anniversary playlist below and take a peek at their super-cool interactive timeline here.  The history of the record label is incredible!