EMI America Records was launched in 1978 by EMI as their second label in the United States after Capitol Records, relying on Capitol only for pressing, distribution, and international liaison.

In 1987, EMI America merged with Manhattan Records, resulting in the formation of EMI Manhattan Records. This entity underwent a rebranding in 1988, becoming known as EMI USA. In 1991, it joined the EMI Records Group North America (ERG) under the name EMI Records USA. The label was ultimately closed down in 1997, and its artists were split between Virgin Records America (acquired by Thorn EMI in 1992) and Capitol Records.

Since 2013, its catalog has been managed by Universal Music Group following their acquisition of EMI's recorded music division.