Empire Record Label: Ownership, History, and Company Leadership
EMPIRE Distribution, commonly known as EMPIRE, is an independent record label and distribution company founded by Ghazi Shami in 2010. As of 2024, EMPIRE remains independently owned and operated by its founder Ghazi Shami, who serves as the CEO of the company.
Ghazi Shami, a San Francisco native with extensive music industry experience, established EMPIRE as a digital music distribution company before expanding it into a full-service record label. Under his leadership, EMPIRE has grown into a major player in the music industry, working with both established artists and emerging talents.
EMPIRE operates differently from traditional major record labels, as it maintains its independence rather than being owned by one of the "Big Three" music companies (Universal Music Group, Sony Music Entertainment, or Warner Music Group). This independent status allows EMPIRE to offer more flexible deals and maintain closer relationships with its artists.
The company's success stems from its early adoption of streaming and digital distribution strategies. Some notable artists who have worked with EMPIRE include:
Kendrick Lamar XXXTentacion Anderson .Paak Tyga Snoop Dogg Young Dolph
While EMPIRE has partnered with various major labels for specific projects and distribution deals, it remains independently owned and controlled by Ghazi Shami. The company has offices in San Francisco, New York, London, Nashville, and Atlanta, operating as a global music enterprise while maintaining its independent status.
Through strategic partnerships and innovative business models, EMPIRE has established itself as one of the most successful independent music companies in the industry, all while remaining under the ownership and direction of its original founder.