After a seven-year hiatus, K-pop icon G-Dragon has signed with EMPIRE, a music label founded by the Palestinian-American Ghazi Shami.
Known for his impactful charitable work, particularly in support of Palestinian causes, Ghazi’s leadership is set to introduce a fresh perspective to the K-pop scene, blending music with meaningful advocacy.
This partnership marks a pivotal moment for G-Dragon, who has long been a luminary in the industry.
Previously signed to YG Entertainment—home to celebrated acts like Big Bang and BlackPink—he has now chosen to align himself with EMPIRE, a decision that hints at a significant evolution in his artistic journey.
The announcement came alongside the release of his highly anticipated single, "Power,” which has already generated significant buzz among fans and critics.
With Ghazi at the helm, known for his passionate advocacy for Palestine, G-Dragon is set to explore deeper themes within his music.
In a recent Instagram post, Ghazi shared his pride in his Palestinian heritage, declaring, "I am 100 per cent Palestinian, my father is from Lid and my mother is from Ramla. If you can't speak up for your own people, you really ain't sh**.”
His words resonate not only with his personal mission but also with the collective call for awareness surrounding the Palestinian cause.
G-Dragon's comeback single, "Power,” released on Oct 31, has already struck a chord with listeners, racking up over 8.2 million views within just 20 hours.
The lyrics, "Guess who's back? It's your boy G.D / Now I got the power,” encapsulate a sense of empowerment and renewal, signaling a bold new direction for the artist.
As fans celebrate this new era, the excitement extends beyond just the music.
G-Dragon's signing with EMPIRE has sparked vibrant discussions within the K-pop community.
Some fans are calling for a "K-pop industry free of Zionists,” while others express hope that G-Dragon's influence could raise awareness about critical social issues, particularly those affecting the Palestinian people.
One fan wrote, "This made me so happy, I just became twice as much of a GD fan."
Ghazi’s confirmation of the signing on his X account only heightened the anticipation surrounding G-Dragon's future projects.
As he embarks on this new chapter, the collaboration between G-Dragon and EMPIRE is set to redefine the boundaries of K-pop, illustrating how music can serve as a powerful platform for advocacy.