In a bold move to address the financial challenges faced by independent urban musicians, entrepreneur Victor D. Lombard, better known as DIVINE, has teamed up with hip-hop legend RAKIM to launch Notes, a fintech platform designed specifically for creators in the music industry. The platform aims to provide essential tools and education that empower artists to manage their careers effectively. By offering resources like loan applications, credit score tracking, and financial literacy courses, Notes seeks to bridge the gap between artistic talent and financial stability. The app also includes innovative features such as an AI-powered voice assistant and a digital passport for comprehensive financial management.
Addressing Financial Barriers in the Music Industry
The music industry has long been notorious for exploiting artists through unfair contracts and limited financial support. Many independent musicians struggle to fund their projects and sustain their careers. Recognizing these challenges, DIVINE drew inspiration from his extensive experience in fintech and his background in the indie urban music scene. Over the past decade, he has built several companies aimed at serving underbanked communities, which provided him with valuable insights into leveraging technology for financial inclusion. With Notes, he envisions a platform where artists can gain control over their financial futures and build sustainable careers.
Notes offers a range of services tailored to the unique needs of independent musicians. The platform provides multimedia courses on financial management, step-by-step guides for monetizing music, and tools for writing lyrics and connecting with peers. One of its standout features is the "digital passport," which allows users to track their credit scores, access loans, and utilize budgeting tools. By partnering with lenders and creditors, Notes earns commissions on referral fees when users apply for loans through the platform. This innovative approach not only supports artists financially but also fosters a community of empowered creators.
A Partnership for Change: RAKIM Joins the Movement
To strengthen the impact of Notes, DIVINE approached RAKIM, a revered figure in hip-hop history, to join as a co-founder and advisory board member. Known for his influential work with Eric B. & RAKIM during the golden age of hip-hop, RAKIM brings decades of credibility and respect to the project. His son, Tahmell Griffin, also holds an executive position at the company. Together, they aim to create a movement rooted in empowerment and cultural authenticity. RAKIM’s involvement adds a layer of authenticity and trust, making Notes more appealing to the urban music community.
The partnership between DIVINE and RAKIM represents a powerful alliance for change. RAKIM’s reputation as a pioneer in hip-hop and his commitment to staying true to his principles align perfectly with the mission of Notes. The platform is currently in beta, with plans to fully launch by the end of February. It offers freemium and premium subscription models, aiming to generate revenue through subscriptions and referral fees. For DIVINE, this venture marks the culmination of his journey in both music and technology. He envisions Notes as a tool that shifts the narrative from exploitation to empowerment, enabling artists to own their financial future and achieve career success. If an artist can use Notes to secure funding for their next album, learn how to run their music career as a business, and leverage community collaboration for growth, then the platform will have achieved its ultimate goal.