In “Back & Forth“ Russell Simmons and Rick Rubin reflect on the birth and general history of Def Jam Recordings. The label's big birthday bash will take place on October 16, 2014 at Brooklyn's Barclays Center.

“Two music pioneers square off in this special edition of Noisey's Back & Forth series focused on the 30th Anniversary of the legendary Def Jam Recordings. Def Jam founders Russell Simmons and Rick Rubin, with the aid of the great Elliott Wilson, talk about the early days of the label, their first twelve-inch release, LL Cool J's hit "Radio," and LL Cool J's involvement with Run-D.M.C. in this clip“. Check part 1 of 4 out below.