Powerful independent brand EMPIRE announced its official expansion into Asia with the appointment of a senior executive with extensive experience in cultivating cross-border talent.
Known for playing a key role in the development of several groundbreaking Asian acts, Jeffrey Yu The company announced on Thursday (October 31) that it has appointed EMPIRE senior vice president of East Asia. In his new role, the veteran executive will oversee signings and artist development across Asia and the diaspora. The first high-profile new member of Yoo’s new tenure is K-pop icon G-Dragon, who released his first single in seven years, “POWER,” in collaboration with EMPIRE on Thursday.
Early in his career, Yoo discovered and managed Korea’s enigmatic vocal prodigy DEAN (who helped Korean R&B connect with overseas audiences through collaborations with Anderson .Paak and SYD), and consulted for 88Rising to develop and Help break Chinese pop star Jackson Wang (whose recent album, magiciantied with 88rising at No. 15 on the 2022 Billboard 200). Last year, he collaborated with Tricky, mark and Judy Stewart Acquired RZ3 Recordings through a joint venture agreement with Epic Records; he also previously founded Quantum Mirror Publishing.
“I am excited to join the EMPIRE team and feel that my years of experience in the music industry have led to this opportunity,” Yoo said in a statement. “Ghazi has done an outstanding job creating a company and a truly diverse culture. I especially appreciate his understanding and commitment to investing in Asian artists as well as Asian executive talent.
CEO/Founder of Empire Ghazi Added: “EMPIRE’s goal has always been to bring music and culture to a global audience, so further establishing our footprint in the Asian market strengthens our commitment to this. Jeffrey’s knowledge and respect for the music industry is unparalleled and he is the perfect person to lead our efforts in Asia.
With teams already spread across the United States, Europe, Africa and the Middle East, EMPIRE’s expansion into Asia aligns with its mission to develop the next wave of international superstars across its recording, distribution and publishing sectors.
