Vee-Jay Records was an American record label founded in 1953 by Ewart Abner, James Bracken, and Vivian Bracken. It was one of the first independent labels to achieve significant success, particularly in the genres of rhythm and blues, gospel, and rock and roll. The label is known for releasing early records by artists like The Four Seasons and John Lee Hooker. In the early 1960s, Vee-Jay gained fame for being the first label to release music by The Beatles in the United States. Despite its initial success, the label faced financial difficulties and eventually went out of business in 1966. Vee-Jay's legacy remains significant in the history of American music.