About Empire Mates Entertainment (E.M.E)

Empire Mates Entertainment (stylized as E.M.E) is a Nigerian record label founded by Banky W in 2002. The label is home to recording artists such as Wellington himself, Shaydee and Niyola. DJ Xclusive is the label’s official DJ.Producers associated with the label include Masterkraft, Jay Sleek, Cobhams Asuquo, Spellz and Samklef, among others. On June 18, 2012, the label released its first compilation album Empire Mates State of Mind. In addition to establishing a record label, Banky W, Segun Demuren and Tunde Demuren established a production house, a publishing company known as Muzik Men Publishing, and a charity foundation known as the I-AM-CAPABLE Charity Foundation. On February 19, 2014, Nigerian Entertainment Today reported that Skales parted ways with E.M.E following the expiration of his contract. According to the reports, both parties met and reached an agreement. Wizkid left the label following the release of his second studio album and expiration of his 5 year contract. Wellington founded the record label in Albany, New York in 2002. During an interview with Beverly Bryan of MTVIggy.com, Banky W shed light on the formulation of E.M.E. He said he started E.M.E while studying at a local university in Albany. He also said he made money from singing to patrons of hair and nail salons in New York. In 2008, Banky W established E.M.E in Lagos after relocating there. In 2009, he signed Wizkid as the first act to the record label. Skales was also signed to the label in 2009. DJ Xclusive, Shaydee and Niyola were all signed to the label in 2012. During an interview with Toolz on Ndani's TV's The Juice, Banky W opened up on the signing process for each artist on the label. He signed Niyola after hearing her sing in the bathroom at his sister's wedding. He signed Shaydee after Shaydee opened for him at a show in Ilorin. Wizkid and Skales' record deals with EME came as a result of their musical exposure.