In the late hours of February 18, 2020, legendary Nigerian rapper, Olamide Adedeji announced that his label, YBNL Nation had signed a deal with Empire Distribution.

With palpable excitement, Olamide wrote on his Twitter account that, "Happy to announce that YBNL and Empire got a joint venture deal. Myself and Fireboy with any other act i sign next ready to shake the world."

He also thanked his fans for their patience, "Big thanks to the fans for holding on for so long and believing.. Switching it up n f***ing the world up is the motive. So make nobody fear when gobe start..."

In the same way, Empire released a statement via its Twitter page that, "Nigeria going global. Excited to continue this journey with you and the YBNL family." In the same haze, Olamide announced new albums from him and Fireboy, "Time to get to work and serve you guys new Baddo album and new Fireboy album."

In December 2019, Nigerian singer, Wande Coal also signed a distribution deal with Empire Distribution.

What is Empire?

Empire is a San Francisco-based distribution company founded by Ghazi Shami. Most notably, Empire distributes for Top Dawg Entertainment - the label to which Kendrick Lamar is signed.

who’s ready ?