Grammy-Winning Producer !llmind Joins EMPIRE Publishing as Senior VP of A&R: A Strategic Move Shaping Music’s Future

In a defining moment for independent music and the evolution of artist development, Grammy-winning producer !llmind has officially joined EMPIRE Publishing as Senior Vice President of A&R. The announcement, met with excitement across the music industry, highlights a forward-thinking approach to music creation, artist empowerment, and publishing strategy.

This move places !llmind, known for his groundbreaking work with global icons like Drake, The Carters, Eminem, Nicki Minaj, and Ye, at the center of one of the industry’s fastest-growing publishing outfits. His appointment signals a powerful commitment by EMPIRE to blend creativity, innovation, and experience into a cohesive force.

Who is !llmind?

Born Ramon Ibanga Jr., !llmind is a Filipino-American producer, songwriter, and entrepreneur whose influence stretches across genres and generations. With a Grammy to his name and credits on multiple platinum-selling albums, he is widely recognized for his unique blend of gritty, soulful, and futuristic production.

From contributing to Jay-Z and Beyoncé’s collaborative album to working with underground and up-and-coming acts, !llmind has consistently proven that his talent defies classification. His diverse body of work includes hits with artists like Drake, Kanye West, J. Cole, Khalid, and Logic, as well as Latin stars such as Romeo Santos.

Role and Responsibilities at EMPIRE

In his new role as Senior VP of A&R, !llmind will not only scout and develop emerging talent but also serve as a critical bridge between EMPIRE’s publishing and recording operations. He will bring his expert ear to song screenings, provide high-level creative feedback, and advise on sonic direction.

Additionally, !llmind’s leadership is expected to help shape EMPIRE’s next wave of hits by aligning producers, songwriters, and recording artists in innovative, data-informed ways. This unique hybrid of hands-on artistry and strategic insight makes him an ideal fit for this dynamic role.

Career Impact: Why EMPIRE Chose !llmind

!llmind is known not just for his chart success but also for his future-facing mindset. As a producer who embraces new technology and evolving musical tastes, he represents exactly the kind of energy EMPIRE wants at the top of its creative hierarchy.

EMPIRE’s mission is to amplify underrepresented voices and disrupt traditional music models, and !llmind’s track record proves he’s aligned with that goal. His ability to nurture raw talent and push the boundaries of sound makes him an invaluable asset.

EMPIRE Publishing’s Growth Strategy

EMPIRE Publishing has been scaling rapidly, and this hire is part of a broader plan to build a powerhouse roster of creators and executives. With operations in the U.S. and globally, the company is investing in talent and leadership that can drive long-term value.

The addition of !llmind complements a series of strategic moves designed to elevate EMPIRE’s publishing arm to compete with the majors, while maintaining the flexibility and ethos of an independent powerhouse.

Al “Butter” McLean’s Promotion and Role

Alongside !llmind’s appointment, EMPIRE also promoted Al “Butter” McLean to Executive Vice President of Global Creative. A seasoned music executive with more than 30 years in the business, McLean has worked with a who’s who of artists including Alicia Keys, Childish Gambino, Daddy Yankee, Kirk Franklin, and Yung Bleu.

McLean and !llmind will work closely together, bringing both legacy knowledge and fresh innovation to EMPIRE’s publishing vision. Their partnership is expected to deepen the company’s global reach and creative influence.

!llmind’s Vision and Statement

Speaking on the appointment, !llmind expressed his excitement and sense of purpose. “My entire career I’ve always felt like an outsider because I like to dive headfirst into innovation, solving things in unique ways and pushing the sound of music forward. I can’t wait to contribute to this movement and learn more in the years ahead.”

His message resonated across the industry, especially among creators who value authenticity, experimentation, and boundary-pushing artistry.

The Significance of Tech in A&R Today

!llmind’s influence goes beyond production. He’s also a tech entrepreneur with a sharp eye for how data and AI are reshaping the music landscape. His ventures include platforms that connect producers with artists, sell sound kits, and provide education on music production.

At EMPIRE, he’s expected to bring a tech-savvy approach to A&R—using tools to identify trends, optimize songwriting sessions, and personalize artist development strategies.

Changing Landscape of Independent Music

Independent music is no longer the underdog. With digital distribution, social media, and creator-first platforms, indie artists now have more control than ever. EMPIRE is leading this charge, offering artists full-service support without the bureaucracy of major labels.

!llmind’s presence strengthens EMPIRE’s positioning as a creator-friendly haven. His role supports the evolution of A&R from traditional gatekeeping to a collaborative, tech-empowered ecosystem.

Bridging Innovation and Authenticity

What sets !llmind apart is his ability to innovate without losing touch with cultural authenticity. He honors hip-hop’s roots while expanding its horizons, infusing beats with emotional depth and global textures.

Artists trust him because he listens. He sees beyond the single and understands how to build a career. That balance of vision and humility is rare—and invaluable to EMPIRE’s long-term creative goals.

What This Means for Creators and Songwriters

For songwriters, producers, and artists under EMPIRE’s wing, this move opens new doors. !llmind brings mentorship, access, and credibility. His deep connections across genres and geographies will help cultivate an even more diverse and impactful creator community.

Moreover, he’ll be instrumental in building pathways for young producers and unsigned talent, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds.

Industry Reactions and Expectations

Industry insiders have praised the move. From managers and A&Rs to artists and executives, the consensus is clear: this is a smart, strategic hire that will generate results.

The appointment sets a new bar for independent publishers looking to compete at the highest levels. It also signals a shift in how executive roles are filled—favoring creativity and cultural fluency over corporate lineage.

Key Collaborations That Define !llmind’s Legacy

!llmind’s catalog includes contributions to some of the most acclaimed and commercially successful projects of the last two decades. Highlights include:

• “Heaven” by Jay-Z

• “LoveHate Thing” by Wale

• Production on Beyoncé & Jay-Z’s Everything Is Love

• Tracks with Kanye West on The Life of Pablo

• Work with Drake, Eminem, Nicki Minaj, Logic, and Big Sean

Each of these collaborations reflects his chameleon-like ability to adapt while remaining unmistakably himself.

What’s Next for EMPIRE Publishing

With !llmind on board and McLean stepping into a global leadership role, EMPIRE Publishing is positioned for exponential growth. Upcoming plans include international expansion, deeper sync licensing strategies, and creator-focused incubators.

This appointment isn’t just a one-off. It’s part of a calculated blueprint to redefine what a music publisher can be in the streaming era—and !llmind will be at the heart of it.

Conclusion

The music industry is changing, and EMPIRE Publishing is not just keeping pace—it’s setting the tone. By bringing in a creative visionary like !llmind, the company reinforces its commitment to innovation, independence, and artistic excellence.

For !llmind, the role is more than a title. It’s a platform to shape the next generation of music and musicians. And for EMPIRE, it’s a statement that the future of music belongs to those who build it—from the studio to the boardroom.