A remarkable event took place on February 15th, bringing together influential figures from the worlds of sports and music. Hosted by EMPIRE and Billboard at EMPIRE’s San Francisco studio, the gathering celebrated the second annual Sports and Music issue, which highlights key players bridging these two dynamic industries. The evening featured a diverse lineup of artists and industry leaders who came together to honor achievements and foster connections.

The highlight of the night was the presentation of the inaugural Billboard Sports & Music Innovator Award to David Kelley, director of global partnerships and licensing at 2K. This award recognized Kelley's significant contributions to the intersection of sports and music. In addition, Ghazi, the founder and CEO of EMPIRE, received recognition for his cover feature in Billboard. He emphasized that this achievement symbolized collective effort rather than individual success. “It represents all of us,” he remarked during his speech, highlighting the collaborative spirit that defines the company.

California State Assemblyman Matt Haney further elevated the occasion by presenting Ghazi, along with other EMPIRE executives, with a certificate of recognition from the state of California. This accolade marked the 15th anniversary of EMPIRE, founded in 2010. Haney praised EMPIRE for its global impact, noting how they have brought music from every corner of the world to San Francisco, maintaining integrity and inspiring many through their dedication and commitment.

This event not only celebrated past accomplishments but also underscored the importance of collaboration and innovation in both sports and music. It demonstrated that when industries come together, they can create something powerful and transformative, setting an example for future generations to follow. The evening was a testament to what can be achieved when passion meets purpose, reminding everyone present of the boundless potential within each of us to make a difference.