Az Cohen’s AZTEC Label Signs Indie Pop Artist Beeson
The new joint venture label with Believe secures its first artist signing.
1AZTEC Announces First Signing
AZTEC, a new independent label established by Az Cohen, has officially signed indie pop singer-songwriter Beeson. This partnership marks the first artist acquisition for the label, which operates as a joint venture with the French music conglomerate Believe. The debut release under this new collaboration, titled Worse Not Better, arrives December 4.
2Artist Background and Growth
Beeson is an Arizona-based artist who began her independent career in 2023 following her graduation from BYU. She has cultivated a dedicated fan base by performing over 100 live shows across Utah. Her discography includes the 2023 EP Last Shot, the 2025 EP Ritual, and the July single Going.
3Strategic Vision for AZTEC
Az Cohen founded AZTEC earlier this year with a specific focus on identifying artists with a distinct creative identity. Cohen, who previously spent over a decade at 300 Entertainment working with artists like Young Thug, emphasizes that his team is committed to supporting Beeson’s vision for her unique musical universe.
4Believe’s U.S. Market Entry
This joint venture represents a significant milestone for Believe, serving as the French company’s first label venture within the United States. Having established a global presence over two decades, Believe entered the U.S. market in 2026. This partnership is a key component of their strategy to compete in the world's largest music market.
5Cohen’s Industry Experience
Az Cohen brings extensive A&R experience to the new label, having previously managed the distribution engine Sparta at 300 Entertainment. During his tenure at the Warner Music Group-owned label, he contributed to the early career development of Post Malone and Gunna. He now applies this expertise to building AZTEC from scratch.
6Beeson’s Creative Autonomy
Beeson chose to partner with AZTEC because the label offers a balance between creative control and professional industry support. She noted that the team possesses a scrappy, hands-on approach while maintaining the capability to operate at a high level. This structure allows her to maintain the reins of her project.
7Operational Team Dynamics
The AZTEC team is described as a group of specialists who are also versatile enough to handle various operational tasks. Beeson highlighted the dedication of the staff, noting their willingness to assist with any requirement during the startup phase. This collaborative environment is central to the label's current development and growth.
8Future Industry Implications
The launch of AZTEC and the signing of Beeson signal a shift in how independent labels leverage international partnerships to penetrate the U.S. market. By combining Cohen’s A&R pedigree with Believe’s global infrastructure, the venture aims to provide artists with significant reach while retaining the agility of a smaller, focused team.
Original article: Billboard — Az Cohen’s AZTEC Label Signs Indie Pop Artist Beeson