Roc Nation has changed its name because of a huge merger.
Jay-Z’s record label has now become ROC Nation Distribution because of the merger with Equity Distribution (EQ), which prioritizes music artists’ needs, interests and focus, according to Black Enterprise.
The announcement was made on August 15, as Roc Nation announced its newest “entity as a destination for artists.” With the merger, Roc Nation and EQ have joined together their business models to offer signed artists “new access to technology, and business expertise and freedom,” according to a press release.
Through ROC Nation distribution, artists can now enjoy a “hybrid model of unique services, including retaining independence and ownership of their master’s and creative control.”
What does the new platform comprise? The new platform “offers a proprietary dashboard where artists can receive data analytics and have the option to opt into various services across the company.”
Additionally, all artists who are signed to Roc Nation will be a part of ROC Nation Distribution thanks to the new formation. Also, ROC Nation co-president Shari Bryant has stepped down from her post, reportedly.
She joined the label as co-president with Omar Grant back in 2019 after the exit of former label president Benny Pough. Artists under their leadership signed to the label, which included Maeta, Ambre, Reuben Vincent and Kalan FrFr.
Things have expanded drastically for Roc Nation since its inception in 2008 when the label embarked on a joint venture with Live Nation to cover Jay-Z’s touring and future recordings. But thanks to J. Cole’s ascension as one of the greatest rappers of this generation, Roc Nation quickly grew into a full-blown entertainment company.
Its offerings are management, sports, publishing, and distribution divisions as well as the popular music festival Made In America. Roc Nation also has a partnership with the NFL in which the company “oversees programming for the Super Bowl Halftime Show,” and reportedly, the league’s social justice initiatives.
Right now, Roc Nation boasts the following current talent: J.Cole, Rihanna, Rapsody, Vic Mensa, Belly, Snoh Aalegra and Jaden and Willow Smith. The Management leg includes Megan Thee Stallion, Lil Uzi Vert, DJ Khaled, J Balvin, Yo Gotti, Robin Thicke and Christina Aguilera, among others.
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