EMPIRE works with musicians across hip-hop, R&B, pop, country, Afrobeats, and other genres. However, not every artist connected with the company has the same agreement.
Their deals range from full label contracts to simple distribution, and that distinction changes what “being with EMPIRE” actually means.
This blog covers EMPIRE record label artists, their music, and notable artists who have worked with the company. It also includes the social media handles where fans can follow official announcements.
What is EMPIRE and How Does it Work?
EMPIRE is an independent music company founded by Ghazi Shami in San Francisco in 2010. It operates as a record label, distributor, and music publisher.
Artists can work with EMPIRE in different ways. Because their agreements are different, an artist promoted by EMPIRE may not always be formally signed to the label.
EMPIRE also works with musicians from different regions through divisions focused on Africa, Latin music, Nashville, and other markets.
EMPIRE’s Early Distribution Deals
EMPIRE built its name through early hip-hop distribution deals, then grew that trust into partnerships with some of the genre’s biggest names. Here’s how its top artist relationships came together over time.
| Artist | Joined EMPIRE | First Project with EMPIRE |
|---|---|---|
|
Kendrick Lamar |
2011 | Section.80, released July 2, 2011, climbed to #113 on the Billboard 200 |
|
SZA |
2011 | Early projects released through EMPIRE’s partnership with Top Dawg Entertainment |
|
Schoolboy Q |
2011 | Distributed through the same Top Dawg Entertainment partnership |
|
DRAM |
2015 | The EP #1Epic, followed by his 2016 album Big Baby DRAM featuring “Broccoli” |
|
Cardi B |
2017 | Early music that helped launch her career with viral hits like “Foreva” |
Who are the Current EMPIRE Record Label Artists?
EMPIRE works with artists across hip-hop, R&B, pop, country, and Afrobeats (Check the EMPIRE roster page to see the full lineup)
1. 42 Dugg
Source: Spotify
42 Dugg brings the Detroit trap sound straight to EMPIRE’s roster. He’s part of a full label partnership with the company. Fans can count on regular new single drops from him.
His fast flow and street style keep his momentum strong in the trap scene today.
2. B.o.B
Source: Billboard
B.o.B is best known for his hit song “Airplanes.” His genre-blending style mixes rap with pop, making him stand out from typical rap acts.
He works with EMPIRE for distribution. He keeps releasing new music and stays active and connected with fans across different platforms.
3. Kizz Daniel
Source: Spotify
Kizz Daniel is a major name in Nigerian Afrobeats. He’s known for catchy, danceable hits that spread fast worldwide.
He holds a label partnership with EMPIRE and stays busy with new singles and tours each year, keeping fans across Africa and beyond fully hooked on his music.
4. Kuami Eugene
Source: Spotify
Kuami Eugene blends Ghanaian highlife with modern R&B sounds. He’s signed under a label partnership with EMPIRE.
He took part in EMPIRE’s writing camp sessions that led to compilation projects featuring African artists. His unique sound keeps him a fan favorite across the continent.
5. Wande Coal
Source: Spotify
Wande Coal helped shape early Afrobeats vocals as one of its pioneers. He holds a label partnership with EMPIRE. He joined EMPIRE’s writing camp in San Francisco, working alongside other artists on new music.
His influence on the genre keeps growing with each new release.
6. Shaboozey
Source: Forbes
Shaboozey blends country and hip-hop into one fresh sound. He’s signed under a label partnership with EMPIRE.
EMPIRE’s founder, Ghazi, often praises artists who bring bold creative ideas to the table.
Shaboozey’s genre-crossing style has made him a standout name in country music today.
7. Bebe Rexha
Source: Rolling Stone
Bebe Rexha is a Grammy-nominated pop star known for chart-topping hits. She recently went independent and partnered with EMPIRE for more creative freedom.
This move lets her control her music while still having strong support behind her. Her new album keeps fans excited for what’s next.
Where to Find EMPIRE Music and Artist Updates
EMPIRE keeps fans updated through several official channels. Follow along on any of these platforms to stay on top of new music, artist signings, and behind-the-scenes moments.
| Channel | What You’ll Find |
|---|---|
| Artist announcements, releases, and event clips | |
| Quick news and release updates | |
| Music videos, interviews, and playlists | |
| Artist news, videos, and announcements | |
| Music and audio releases |
Some Famous Artists Who Have Worked With EMPIRE
Several successful musicians have worked with EMPIRE at different points in their careers. Some released music through its distribution network, while others had broader partnerships.
- Anderson.Paak: Released music through EMPIRE before gaining wider mainstream recognition
- Fat Joe and Remy Ma: Released “All the Way Up” as part of a project distributed by EMPIRE
- DRAM: Released music connected with EMPIRE during his commercial rise
- XXXTentacion: Released successful independent music through EMPIRE’s distribution system
Note: These names should not be treated as EMPIRE’s current signed roster.
New Music Releases of Empire Artists This Year
EMPIRE artists have been busy this year, dropping fresh tracks and albums for their fans.
| Artist | Release | Type | Release Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bebe Rexha | Dirty Blonde | Album | June 12, 2026 |
| Lucki | Dr*gs R Bad | Album | May 15, 2026 |
| Maxo Kream | Fake Jeezy | Single | January 16, 2026 |
| Denise Julia | 2GOOD4U | Single | April 9, 2026 |
| Denise Julia | CHANGES | Single | May 8, 2026 |
EMPIRE’s Global Divisions
EMPIRE isn’t just one label working out of San Francisco; it runs separate divisions built around specific regions and genres. Here’s a quick look at each one.
- EMPIRE Africa: Focused on Afrobeats, amapiano, and other African genres, with writing camps and showcases that connect artists across Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa, and beyond.
- EMPIRE Latino: Handles Latin music partnerships, giving reggaeton and Latin alternative artists the same distribution and publishing support as EMPIRE’s other divisions.
- EMPIRE Nashville: Works with country and genre-blending artists (Shaboozey being the standout example), based out of EMPIRE’s Nashville office.
How Does EMPIRE Promote Its Artists?
EMPIRE uses streaming services, media coverage, music videos, and social media to introduce artists and releases to a wider audience.
Playlist and Streaming Placements
EMPIRE supports releases across major streaming platforms. Playlist features and platform placements can help new music reach listeners who may not already follow the artist.
Radio and Press Campaigns
Depending on the agreement, EMPIRE may support an artist through radio promotion, interviews, press coverage, and other media opportunities. The type of support may differ from one artist to another.
Social Media Spotlights
EMPIRE shares new songs, videos, artist partnerships, performances, and career milestones across its official social channels. These posts also help fans confirm which updates come directly from the company.
The Bottom Line
Trying to sort EMPIRE record label artists into one neat category will usually miss what’s actually going on with each deal.
Rosters here shift faster than most write-ups can track, especially with new divisions and regional partnerships opening up every year.
Readers should check EMPIRE’s official social media channels to confirm current artist relationships, new signings, and upcoming releases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Empire a Major Label or an Independent Label?
EMPIRE describes itself as an independent label, distributor, and publisher.
How Do I Submit Music to Empire?
EMPIRE accepts submissions through its official website, not social media DMs, so use the site’s contact or submission form directly.
Does Empire Own an Artist’s Masters?
It depends on the deal, distribution, and publishing; clients usually keep their masters, while some label signings involve shared or full rights.
