EMPIRE, the independent music label, delivered a high-energy pre-Grammy celebration in Beverly Hills last night, marking a key moment in the lead-up to the 68th Annual Grammy Awards. Hosted by EMPIRE CEO and founder Ghazi, the private event showcased the label’s expanding influence, featuring performances from top nominees and a guest list that included pop, hip-hop, and R&B stars alike.

Shaboozey Closes the Night with a RIAA-Diamond Smash

The evening’s highlight came from Shaboozey, who delivered a high-energy performance of his RIAA-Diamond certified hit A Bar Song (Tipsy), closing out the festivities. The breakout star, who is nominated for multiple awards this year, was a central figure in the celebration, highlighting his rising status in the music industry.

Shaboozey’s performance was met with roaring applause, with fans and industry figures alike celebrating his recent success. The track, which has charted at the top of the Billboard Hot 100, has sold over 10 million units in the U.S. alone, according to the RIAA.

Destin Conrad and Kehlani Shine in Collaborative Sets

Destin Conrad, a four-time Grammy nominee, delivered a collaborative performance with friends, showcasing his versatility across genres. His set, which included a mix of hip-hop and soul, was praised by attendees for its energy and creativity.

Kehlani, another standout of the night, performed a soulful set that highlighted her R&B roots. Known for her emotive delivery and genre-blending style, Kehlani’s performance was a favorite among the crowd, drawing comparisons to her critically acclaimed 2023 album Blue.

Tiny Harris, who was also in attendance, was spotted mingling with fellow artists and label executives, signaling his growing presence in the music scene. His recent collaborations with top producers have positioned him as a rising star in the hip-hop and R&B space.

Industry Legends and Rising Stars Unite

The guest list was a who’s who of the music industry, with hip-hop icons like T.I. and Kevin Gates joining forces with emerging talents such as Dreezy and Kalan.FrFr. The event also welcomed pop and R&B artists like Bebe Rexha, Iggy Azalea, and Rotimi, further emphasizing EMPIRE’s broad reach across genres.

Notable attendees included Ty Dolla $ign, Kamasi Washington, and members of the Black Eyed Peas, all of whom were present to support EMPIRE’s landmark year. The label, which has seen a surge in popularity over the past two years, is now home to several top-charting artists and Grammy contenders.

Industry insiders noted that the event was a strategic move to solidify EMPIRE’s position as a major player in the music world. The label has seen a 45% increase in streaming numbers since 2024, according to internal data, and is expected to receive multiple Grammy nominations this year.

The pre-Grammy party was streamed live on Twitch, allowing fans around the world to experience the event virtually. The livestream, which attracted over 500,000 viewers, highlighted EMPIRE’s commitment to engaging with fans beyond traditional concert formats.

With the 2026 Grammy Awards set to air live from the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on February 8, the EMPIRE event served as a prelude to what promises to be a night of music, celebration, and recognition of the industry’s top talents.