Filipina R&B singer-songwriter and producer Denise Julia has officially signed with EMPIRE, a US-based independent record label and distribution company
On her social media pages, Denise announced the exciting career move and expressed pride in representing Filipino artistry on an international platform.
“All those years of writing songs in my bedroom, recording until sunrise, believing in what I heard in my heart long before the world fully listened… it all led me here!! I’ve officially signed to a US label 🤍 thank you, @empire 🩶,” she wrote.
The singer also shared photos from her official contract signing ceremony as she reflected on her humble beginnings as an aspiring artist from Tondo.
“Coming from Tondo, Philippines, I never imagined the little girl making music out of instinct and pure love would one day find herself here. no shortcuts, no easy path… no nepotism (lol) 😂 just years of choosing to create through every high and low,” she added.
Denise also opened up about the struggles and self-doubt she experienced along the way, saying: “There were moments where being misunderstood could’ve made me less sure of myself. But when you dedicate your life to the work, eventually the music speaks louder than the noise around it.”
Taking pride in the achievement, the Filipina artist emphasized the importance of Filipino representation in the global music industry.
“Being one of the first and few homegrown Filipino artists signed to a major US label is proof that Filipino artistry deserves space on the global stage exactly as we are,” she stated.
She also expressed gratitude to the people who continuously supported and believed in her music career.
“Thank you to everyone who believed in me before any of this looked possible. from barely full to sold out rooms, everyone who stayed and listened carried me farther than you’ll ever know,” she said. “Thank you @ghazi @nima_empire and the entire EMPIRE team for believing in me and in the future of Filipino artistry.”
Ending her message on a celebratory note, Denise proudly declared: “This is only the beginning. WE JUST MADE HISTORY BABYYYY 🇵🇭”
Denise has become known for her hit R&B tracks, including "NVMD,” “butterflies,” “bet,”"Lackin',” and "B.A.D.," among others. Recently, she released two of her singles, “2GOOD4U” and “CHANGES.”
Last March, the singer revealed why it took her time to release new music, candidly sharing her personal struggles while living in the United States.
“While I was battling three diagnoses, I disappeared for a while and moved to the States alone. went through a period of adjustment that challenged me more than I expected. never felt so out of place in a country that felt rough and unfamiliar.. so I kept to myself for a while. stayed inside. just trying to feel worth living again. There’s this belief I heard somewhere that when you’re getting closer to your dreams, it can feel like you’re losing everything at the same time,” she shared.
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Despite the hardships, Denise eventually found healing, meaningful connections, and renewed passion for music.
“fast forward... I found my people. They pushed me, who reminded me who I am, but at the same time taught a different approach towards life. eventually I found love again in what I do. and more importantly for myself. I made two eps in that space,” she said.
EMPIRE record label was founded by American music executive Ghazi Shami in 2010, The label has worked with major international artists across hip-hop, R&B, Latin, and Afrobeats, including Kendrick Lamar, Bebe Rexha, 50 Cent, Anderson .Paak, Tyga, XXXTentacion, G-Dragon, T-Pain, and Cardi B, among others.