In a move that signals growing global ambition for Indian music, EMPIRE and Zee Music Company have announced a strategic partnership aimed at expanding the international reach of Indian content. The collaboration brings together two influential players known for their scale, innovation, and artist-first approach in their respective markets.

The partnership will see EMPIRE oversee the global distribution of Zee Music Company’s extensive catalogue across major streaming platforms outside India. The move is designed to deepen the global consumption of Indian music, tapping into both the Indian diaspora and newer international audiences who are increasingly engaging with diverse cultural content.

Founded in 2010, EMPIRE has built a strong presence by backing independent artists and culture-driven movements across markets, while Zee Music Company, established in 2014, has quickly grown into a dominant force in Bollywood and independent music in India. Together, they are now looking to bridge local storytelling with global accessibility.

Beyond distribution, the collaboration is expected to open up cross-border creative opportunities. Both companies are exploring initiatives such as international remixes, sampling projects, and strategic marketing campaigns across regions including Africa, West Asia and North Africa (WANA), East Asia, and Latin America. The idea is not just to export music, but to create meaningful cultural exchange that resonates with global audiences.

Ghazi, CEO and Founder of EMPIRE, said the partnership aligns with the company’s long-standing mission of taking vibrant local music ecosystems to a global stage. He noted that Zee Music Company’s rapid growth and entrepreneurial approach make it a natural partner in expanding the global footprint of Indian music.

Sujal Parekh, Chief Business Officer at Zee Music Company, highlighted that Indian music is currently at an inflection point, driven by streaming adoption and rising global demand for diverse content. He described the collaboration as a strategic step to unlock new audiences, accelerate catalogue monetisation, and enable cross-cultural collaborations that deliver long-term value.

Saurabh Shah, Senior VP, Video Partnerships and Digital Monetisation at Zee Music Company, added that the focus now is to ensure global audiences experience the depth of the company’s catalogue. He pointed out that EMPIRE’s understanding of international markets and cultural nuances will help break barriers and expand reach significantly.

Faryal Khan-Thompson, VP of Global Market Strategy and Development – South Asia at EMPIRE, underlined that India and South Asia represent one of the most promising frontiers in the global music economy. She said the partnership will combine Zee Music’s strong content base with EMPIRE’s global expertise to bring Indian and South Asian culture to wider audiences.

As streaming continues to flatten geographical boundaries, this collaboration reflects a larger shift in the music industry—where regional sounds are no longer confined to local markets, but are increasingly shaping global listening trends.