Unlocking Success: DIVINE and Rakim Unveil Artist Financial Tools with Innovative Creator App

Introduction to Notes: A Game-Changer for Independent Musicians

In a groundbreaking step for the urban music industry, Victor D. Lombard, famously known as DIVINE, recently introduced a revolutionary fintech platform called Notes. This exciting initiative is in partnership with the iconic hip-hop artist RAKIM, one of the genre’s most pivotal figures. Their ambition is to equip independent musicians with the essential Artist Financial Tools needed to navigate their creative careers effectively.

What is the Notes App?

Notes is specifically tailored for independent urban musicians and creators. This app provides a variety of resources designed to support artists in several crucial areas:

• Applying for loans
• Obtaining access to credit scores
• Improving financial literacy
• Understanding music business practices

Among its many features, the Notes app includes multimedia courses and comprehensive guides for effective financial management. Moreover, it allows artists to draft lyrics and connect with their peers, fostering a collaborative creative environment.

Innovative Features of the Notes App

A standout aspect of the Notes app is its “digital passport”, which empowers users to:

• Monitor their credit scores
• Access loans
• Utilize smart budgeting tools

This platform collaborates with lenders and creditors, earning referral fees when users pursue loans through the app. The current beta version includes AI features, such as a voice assistant powered by RAKIM’s legendary voice, which significantly enhances the user experience. The full version of Notes is expected to launch by the end of February.

Inspiration Behind the Creation of Notes

During an interview, DIVINE shared that his personal experiences within the indie urban music scene inspired the establishment of this platform. He acknowledged the well-documented hurdles artists face when seeking funding for their music careers; for every successful artist, many others struggle to find the necessary resources. He remarked, “The music industry is often structured to exploit artists through unfair contracts and limited financial options, forcing many into predatory deals just to make ends meet.”

Having spent over ten years in fintech companies, DIVINE views technology as a vital means to create equitable opportunities for artists. He has previously founded fintech solutions like BLAK and Solvent, which served underbanked communities. With Notes, his goal is to empower musicians to educate themselves, take control of their careers, and foster independence in a challenging industry.

Collaborative Effort with Rakim

DIVINE reached out to RAKIM’s team to propose this partnership, confident that their collaboration would enhance the mission and messaging of the platform. RAKIM, celebrated for his lasting influence in hip-hop, possesses a unique insight into the struggles faced by artists. His involvement adds significant weight to the initiative. Interestingly, RAKIM’s son, Tahmell Griffin, holds an executive role within the company, emphasizing the familial ties in this project.

The Remarkable Legacy of Rakim

RAKIM’s impact on hip-hop is nothing short of legendary. As part of the iconic duo Eric B. & RAKIM, he gained acclaim during hip-hop’s golden age. Their album, “Paid in Full”, stands among the greatest albums ever, leaving a profound mark on the lyrical style and flow of countless rappers that followed. DIVINE has admired RAKIM for over two decades, particularly for his dedication to authenticity and artistic integrity.

Funding and Business Model for Notes

Currently operating on a self-funded basis, Notes is seeking a pre-seed round to facilitate its growth. The platform features both freemium and premium subscription models to cater to the diverse needs of artists. Revenue will come from:

• Subscription fees
• Referral commissions

By providing tools that enable artists to manage their careers and finances, DIVINE aims to shift the narrative from artist exploitation by record labels to one of empowerment. He stated, “If an artist can leverage Notes to secure funding for their next album, learn to operate their music career like a business, and engage in community collaboration for growth, then we’ve truly succeeded.”

The Vital Role of Artist Empowerment

The rise of independent artists as powerful players in the music industry highlights the increasing need for platforms like Notes. Today, many artists strive for the independence to finance their projects and cultivate their brands without relying on traditional industry gatekeepers.

Transforming the Landscape for Independent Musicians

The collaboration between DIVINE and RAKIM marks an important movement in fostering empowerment and cultural authenticity for independent urban musicians. By integrating valuable Artist Financial Tools and educational resources, the Notes app is poised to revolutionize how artists thrive in an increasingly competitive industry.