From Bars to Bank Accounts: How Notes is Changing the Game for Independent Artists
Rakim & Divine by Matthew D. Kemp
In today's fast-paced urban music industry, independent artists often face significant financial hurdles, from securing funding for projects to navigating the complexities of managing their earnings. Notes, an innovative fintech platform co-founded by hip-hop legend Rakim and entrepreneur Divine, is on a mission to change that. By merging music, finance, and technology, Notes is creating a new era of financial empowerment for urban music artists and creators.
What is Notes?
Notes is an AI-powered financial technology platform designed to give urban music creators the financial tools and knowledge they need to thrive. The platform provides a seamless blend of financial literacy, access to capital, and career development resources, ensuring that independent artists no longer have to struggle with the traditional barriers of the industry.
Watch as Divine breaks down exactly what Notes is all about in this exclusive interview with Justin Hunte:
Key Features of Notes
Financial Literacy & Education
Notes offers AI-driven educational content focused on financial literacy and entrepreneurship. Artists learn how to manage their money, build wealth, and make informed business decisions—critical skills for long-term success in the music industry.
Access to Financial Resources
Need funding for your next project or tour? Notes connects artists to loan and credit providers, giving them access to capital without the need for predatory label deals. This means more financial freedom and the ability to invest in their careers on their terms.
Career Development Tools
Beyond money, Notes provides industry-specific tools to help artists grow their careers. From understanding contract negotiations to leveraging streaming data for better marketing strategies, Notes empowers creators to stay in control of their artistry and business.
Why Notes Matters
For years, independent urban artists have been overlooked by traditional financial institutions. Rakim and Divine created Notes to change that—to level the playing field and give artists the same financial power as major-label acts. With Notes, artists no longer have to sacrifice ownership or struggle with financial uncertainty.
The Vision Behind Notes
Rakim and Divine’s mission is clear: To empower the next generation of urban music creators with the financial resources and education needed to succeed. By addressing the biggest challenges in the industry—lack of funding, financial literacy gaps, and career instability—Notes is setting a new standard for artist empowerment.
If you're looking to get started with Notes, click the link here to join the waitlist!
I was kind of surprised by the capabilities of AI. It’s surpassing a lot of things rapidly! Great way to implement it.