Roc Nation and Equity Distribution Merge to Form Roc Nation Distribution
In a major move that is set to shake up the music industry, Roc Nation and its music distribution arm, Equity Distribution, have merged to create Roc Nation Distribution, according to sources cited by Billboard. This newly formed entity will oversee all artists currently signed to Roc Nation’s label and will continue to sign and support new talent with a variety of services akin to those previously offered by Equity Distribution.
The label in a statement on Thursday said, “ROC Nation distribution supports and empowers independent artists by providing them with tools and services to distribute their music globally while retaining ownership of their masters” with easy instructions to sign up now at rocnation.com/signup.
Equity Distribution, established in 2019 under the leadership of president Krystian Santini, has made a name for itself by working with independent artists who seek to maintain ownership of their masters. The company has provided a range of services, including in-house marketing and publishing administration, and has collaborated with artists such as Mach-Hommy and Tinashe. One of its notable achievements was bringing Jay-Z’s seminal 1996 album, Reasonable Doubt, to streaming platforms for the first time.
A third of that album is now up for auction to settle a debt by Roc A Fella founder Dame Dash. Reggae artist Buju Banton’s last two albums were lease released in partnership with Roc Nation.
With this merger, Roc Nation Distribution is poised to build on Equity’s legacy, offering artists a comprehensive suite of services while allowing them to keep their creativity and ownership.
Shari Bryant, co-president of the label, stepped down from her role in light of the changes. Bryant, became co-president alongside Omar Grant in 2019.
Founded in 2008 as a joint venture with the Liberty Media Corporation owned Live Nation, Roc Nation has grown from a record label and touring company to a full-service entertainment powerhouse, encompassing management, sports, publishing, and distribution. The company lead by Jay-Z, has also made its mark with the long-running Made In America festival and a partnership with the NFL to oversee the Super Bowl Halftime Show and various social justice initiatives.
Over the years, Roc Nation has been home to some of the industry’s biggest names, including Jay-Z himself, Rihanna, Kanye West, J. Cole, and more. Roc Nation Management also remains a force to be reckoned with, representing artists like Megan Thee Stallion, Lil Uzi Vert, DJ Khaled, and Tinashe, who recently made a triumphant return to the Billboard Hot 100 with her single “Nasty.”
As Roc Nation Distribution begins its new chapter, the industry will be watching closely to see how this merger influences the careers of both established and emerging artists under its umbrella.
