EMPIRE Celebrates 15 Years with Star-Studded EMPIRE 15 Concert in San Francisco
- All Country News
- Sep 15
- 2 min read
San Francisco’s Civic Center Plaza became the epicenter of music, culture, and community this past Saturday, September 13, as EMPIRE, the Bay Area–founded independent record label, commemorated its 15-year anniversary with the EMPIRE 15 concert. Drawing an estimated 20,000 fans, the free, all-ages event was a vibrant celebration of the label’s journey from a local startup to a global force in music.
Presented by Another Planet Entertainment in partnership with the City of San Francisco and the San Francisco Recreation & Park Department, the concert marked the finale of the city’s 2025 free concert series, and it did so in unforgettable fashion. Attendees were greeted with fan activations, local food vendors, and a palpable sense of excitement that radiated from the stage to every corner of the plaza. The lineup read like a who’s who of contemporary music: Bay Area favorite Larry June, Afrobeats sensation Fireboy DML, rising stars Red Leather and Inayah, and headliner Shaboozey, whose performance drew one of the largest crowds of the day. Special appearances by P-Lo, Berner, Mistah Fab, and Poco Lee added extra bursts of energy and showcased EMPIRE’s commitment to diversity and innovation across genres.
Shaboozey’s headline set was a masterclass in showmanship and storytelling. Performing with a live band, he delivered fan favorites, including RIAA-Gold hits “Last of My Kind,” “Drink Don’t Need No Mix,” and the chart-topping “Good News,” which currently holds the No. 1 spot at Country radio. The night reached a historic crescendo with “A Bar Song (Tipsy),” recently recognized as the longest-running No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 at 19 weeks and newly certified RIAA Diamond. In a poignant, onstage moment, EMPIRE Founder and CEO Ghazi surprised Shaboozey with his Diamond plaque, joined by EMPIRE COO Nima Etminan, President Tina Davis, and San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie, highlighting the intersection of artistry, community, and achievement.
Beyond the headline acts, EMPIRE 15 celebrated the breadth and depth of the label’s roster. Larry June’s laid-back West Coast energy had fans swaying under the San Francisco sun, Fireboy DML’s Afrobeats rhythms ignited a global dance party, and emerging artists Red Leather and Inayah proved that EMPIRE’s next generation is poised for greatness. The diverse setlist and genre-blending performances underscored EMPIRE’s vision: supporting artists who challenge norms, embrace creativity, and connect with audiences worldwide.
EMPIRE 15 wasn’t just a concert, it was a living testament to 15 years of innovation, resilience, and cultural impact. The event encapsulated the label’s unique ability to nurture artists while maintaining strong ties to its Bay Area roots, proving that independent music can thrive on a global stage without sacrificing authenticity. As the crowd dispersed under San Francisco’s skyline, the message was clear: EMPIRE’s journey is far from over, and the next chapter promises even more groundbreaking music, unforgettable moments, and community celebration.
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