EMPIRE Nashville Expands with Major Digital and A&R Hires
- All Country News
- 21 minutes ago
- 3 min read
EMPIRE Nashville is growing in a big way. The independent record label, publisher, and distributor founded by Ghazi in 2010, has announced two exciting new hires who will help shape the next chapter of its Nashville presence. Bri Small steps in as Vice President of Digital, while Zak Waters steps in as Director of A&R where they will both bring fresh energy and major experience to the team.
L: Bri Small (Photo Credit: David Bradley) R: Zak Waters (Photo Credit: Zak Cassar)
Bri Small Brings a New Digital Vision to Nashville
In her new role, Bri Small will lead digital strategy across EMPIRE’s Nashville roster by driving the online presence and engagement for label artists.
Small’s career began in Los Angeles at NBC Entertainment before she moved into digital marketing at Warner Music Nashville, where she became known for her work across CRM strategy, influencer partnerships, and collaborations with platforms like Meta, TikTok, and Snapchat. She also helped launch Warner Music Group’s first-ever HBCU Immersion Program, opening doors for students and championing diversity throughout the industry.
Executive Vice President Jen Way couldn’t be more thrilled.
“I’ve been a fan of Bri’s work for a long time, and I couldn’t be more excited to welcome her to EMPIRE Nashville,” said Way. “She brings such a special energy and creativity to everything she does, and I know that will elevate both our team and our artists. Her vision and leadership in digital marketing, along with her proven ability to build meaningful connections, make her the perfect person to guide our digital strategy as we continue to expand our impact in Nashville."
Zak Waters Steps in as Director of A&R
On the creative side, EMPIRE Nashville is welcoming songwriter, producer, and artist Zak Waters to lead A&R. Waters brings nearly two decades of experience across pop, country, K-pop, EDM, and R&B—with millions of streams and a long list of credits to his name. He will collaborate with artists on creative vision and lead the discovery and signing of artist talent in Nashville.
He has collaborated with GRAMMY-winning creators, co-written and produced multiple Gold and Platinum releases, and toured internationally as both a front-man and musical director. Waters has worked closely with artists across every major label, with credits spanning songwriting, production, sound design, creative direction and music for film and TV for JoJo, Jordin Sparks, Betty Who, Adventure Club, Chris Stapleton, and more. He’s also known for his work developing emerging artists and bringing creative ideas to life from concept to release.
“Zak is a dynamic creative who can move effortlessly between genres and speak a dozen musical languages,” adds Way. “Artists trust him because he speaks their language, no matter the genre. His versatility and instinct for storytelling represent exactly where EMPIRE Nashville is headed—artist-first, genre-fluid, and creatively fearless. I’m thrilled to welcome him to the team and know he will elevate both our roster and our creative output in Nashville.”
A Big Year for EMPIRE Nashville
These new hires come at a time of major momentum for EMPIRE Nashville, which is led by Way, who joined earlier this year as Executive Vice President. The team has been celebrating a historic moment with breakout country trailblazer Shaboozey, whose RIAA-certified Diamond smash “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” recently became the longest-running No. 1 in Billboard Hot 100 history, holding the top spot for an incredible 19 weeks.
With Small and Waters joining the team, EMPIRE Nashville is continuing to build on that success and focusing on artist development, creative storytelling, and pushing the boundaries of country and beyond.
About Empire
Founded in 2010 by Bay Area native Ghazi, EMPIRE is currently leading through its innovative and progresive approach to the digital music era across its label, distribution, and publishing arms. With more than 200 employees across 25 countries, the company is known for identifying early-stage talent and helping launch the careers of global artists including Kendrick Lamar, Fireboy DML, Shaboozey, Asake, XXXTentacion, and Anderson .Paak.
As the largest privately held record company in the U.S., EMPIRE continues to grow with a worldwide footprint spanning North America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and South America. The company’s artist-first model, bespoke deals, and unique transparency tools make it a standout partner for artists at every level.
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