A US-based label started in 1947 by Lew Chudd. It was famous for recordings of rhythm and blues and early rock and roll like Fats Domino and Ricky Nelson.

Imperial was licensed to London Records in the UK.

In 1960, Lew Chudd bought Aladdin Records and Minit Records. In 1963, after Imperial lost Fats Domino and Ricky Nelson to rival labels, Chudd sold the label to Liberty Records. Under Liberty's management, the label enjoyed success from such artists as Irma Thomas, Johnny Rivers, Jackie DeShannon and Cher.

During the British Invasion years, Liberty (whose recordings were distributed by EMI in the UK) licensed artists including the Hollies, Billy J. Kramer and the Dakotas and the Swinging Blue Jeans from EMI for release on the Imperial label.

By 1969, the label was phased out with the artists transferred to the parent Liberty label. EMI now owns the Imperial Records catalogue.