Shaboozey Expands EMPIRE Relationship by Signing With Publishing Arm

Why It Matters

The publishing pact gives EMPIRE a share of Shaboozey’s lucrative songwriting royalties while giving the artist broader support for his expanding catalog, reinforcing the label’s position in a competitive independent market.

Key Takeaways

• Shaboozey signs publishing deal with EMPIRE.
• “Tipsy” spent 19 weeks at Billboard Hot 100 #1.
• Album debuted #5 on Billboard 200.
• Shaboozey’s imprint American Dogwood partners with EMPIRE.
• Deal expands EMPIRE’s songwriter roster and revenue streams.

Pulse Analysis

EMPIRE’s decision to add Shaboozey to its publishing arm reflects a broader shift among independent labels toward vertical integration. By controlling both recording and publishing rights, EMPIRE can capture a larger slice of the revenue generated from streaming, sync placements, and mechanical royalties. The partnership leverages Shaboozey’s proven ability to generate chart‑topping hits, turning his songwriting talent into a predictable income stream that complements the label’s existing catalog.

Shaboozey’s recent achievements underscore why the deal matters. “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” not only dominated the Hot 100 for 19 weeks but also achieved diamond status, a rare milestone that translates into substantial publishing payouts. His 2024 album entered the Billboard 200 at No. 5, and his American Dogwood imprint, already in joint venture with EMPIRE, has delivered Grammy‑winning collaborations and high‑profile syncs, such as the Thursday Night Football theme. These successes provide EMPIRE with a diversified portfolio of hits across genres and media platforms.

The agreement signals a growing trend where artists seek unified support for both recording and songwriting, while independents like EMPIRE aim to compete with major publishers. As streaming royalties become increasingly important, owning publishing rights offers a more resilient revenue model. EMPIRE’s expanded songwriter roster positions it to attract additional talent, negotiate better sync deals, and strengthen its bargaining power in an industry where content ownership is king.