Victor D. Lombard, a serial entrepreneur and former recording artist known as DIVINE, announced this week the formation of a new venture in collaboration with RAKIM, one of the pivotal figures in hip-hop history.
The new company, Notes, is a fintech platform tailored for independent urban musicians and creators. The service is designed to equip artists with essential knowledge and tools to manage their careers effectively—offering resources for loan applications and credit score access. Moreover, Notes emphasizes financial literacy and provides music business education through multimedia courses and detailed guides on financial management and music monetization. An interactive feature allows artists to write lyrics and network with fellow creatives through the app.
Notes introduces a unique “digital passport” that enables users to monitor credit scores, access loans, and utilize budgeting tools. The company collaborates with lenders and earns referral commissions when users secure loans through its platform.
Currently in beta, the app includes AI tools, featuring a voice assistant that emulates RAKIM’s voice. A full launch is anticipated by the end of February.
In a conversation with TechCrunch, DIVINE shared that his motivation for creating this company alongside RAKIM stems from his personal experiences within the indie urban music scene and the challenges faced when seeking funding to advance their careers. The difficulties of breaking into the music industry are acute and well-documented, as highlighted in various films, profiles, and songs – it’s notoriously tough and costly. For each successful artist who makes it big, countless others remain in the shadows, struggling to make ends meet.
“The current music industry is built in a way that often exploits artists through unfair contracts and scarce financial resources, pushing them into predatory agreements merely to get by,” he stated. Having dedicated more than a decade to fintech entrepreneurial endeavors, he sees technology as a significant equalizer that can restore power back to creators and artists. DIVINE had previously launched fintech company BLAK, focusing on empowering underbanked communities, and developed Solvent, a neobank for underserved populations.
This led to the creation of Notes, aimed at enabling musicians to educate themselves, finance their projects, and build their careers on their own terms. He believes the timing is perfect, as independent artists are gaining more influence yet still face substantial financial challenges.
DIVINE then presented the concept of the company to RAKIM’s team to propose a partnership, resulting in “an even more potent force for change,” according to DIVINE.
RAKIM, part of the legendary hip-hop duo Eric B. & RAKIM, was instrumental in shaping the golden era of hip-hop in the 1980s. Their classic album “Paid in Full” was recognized by Rolling Stone as one of the Greatest Albums of All Time in 2020, known for pioneering the use of funk samples and influencing subsequent generations of rappers.
DIVINE expressed that he has known RAKIM for two decades and has always admired his commitment to his artistry and integrity.
“When I began conceptualizing Notes, it was clear to me that it needed to be more than just a fintech solution; it had to embody a movement centered on empowerment and cultural authenticity,” DIVINE explained further. “Partnering with RAKIM was a natural fit.”
In this collaboration, RAKIM will serve as a co-founder and advisory board member for the company. Additionally, RAKIM’s son, Tahmell Griffin, has taken on an executive role within the organization.
Currently, the company is self-funded, but DIVINE indicated that they are looking to secure a pre-seed investment round. Notes operates on a freemium and premium subscription basis, with revenue generated through its subscription tiers and referral commissions. DIVINE describes this venture as the culmination of his experiences in both the music and technology sectors.
“My vision for Notes is to transform how we view artists within the industry—shifting from a narrative of exploitation by record labels to one where artists have ownership over their financial paths and career achievements,” DIVINE concludes. “If an artist can leverage Notes to fund their next album, learn to manage their music career like a business, and benefit from community partnerships for growth, we’ll have accomplished our goal.”
Compiled by Techarena.au.
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