Divine Launches Creator App with Hip-Hop Legend Rakim

New Fintech Platform, Notes, Launches to Empower Independent Musicians

Serial entrepreneur Victor D. Lombard, known professionally as DIVINE, has unveiled a new venture. This launch includes a partnership with RAKIM, a highly influential figure in hip-hop music.

Introducing Notes: A Fintech Solution for Urban Creators

The newly formed company, named Notes, is a fintech platform designed specifically for independent urban musicians and content creators. It aims to equip artists with the necessary knowledge and resources to effectively manage their professional lives.

Financial Literacy and Business Education are core components of Notes. The platform provides multimedia courses and detailed guides covering financial management and music monetization strategies.

Key Features and Functionality

Notes incorporates a unique “digital passport” feature. This allows users to monitor their credit scores, explore loan options, and utilize budgeting tools.

The company operates through partnerships with lenders and creditors. Revenue is generated via commission fees earned when users secure loans through the platform.

Currently in beta, the app boasts AI-powered tools, including a voice assistant modeled after RAKIM’s distinctive voice. A full public launch is anticipated by the end of February.

The Inspiration Behind Notes

DIVINE shared with TechCrunch that his motivation stemmed from firsthand experience within the independent urban music landscape. He observed the significant challenges artists face when attempting to finance their careers.

The difficulties and expenses associated with breaking into the music industry are widely recognized. For every successful artist, countless others struggle to achieve financial stability.

“The existing music industry often disadvantages artists through unfair contracts and limited financial access,” DIVINE stated. He believes technology can act as an equalizer, returning control to creators.

DIVINE’s Fintech Background

DIVINE previously established BLAK, a fintech company focused on serving underbanked communities. He also founded Solvent, a neobank catering to underserved populations.

Notes represents a continuation of this work, providing musicians with the tools to educate themselves, secure funding, and build sustainable careers independently.

He believes the timing is ideal, as independent artists and creators are gaining influence but still require greater financial support.

A Powerful Partnership with RAKIM

DIVINE presented the concept to RAKIM’s team, resulting in a collaboration that, according to DIVINE, “became an even more powerful force for change.”

RAKIM’s Legacy and Influence

RAKIM rose to prominence as part of the iconic hip-hop duo Eric B. & RAKIM during the 1980s. Their album, “Paid in Full,” was recognized by Rolling Stone in 2020 as one of the Greatest Albums of All Time.

The album was groundbreaking for its innovative use of funk samples and profoundly impacted the lyrical flow and style of subsequent rappers.

DIVINE has known RAKIM for two decades and consistently admired his commitment to artistic integrity and principles.

“Notes needed to be more than a fintech platform; it needed to be a movement built on empowerment and cultural authenticity,” DIVINE explained. “Bringing RAKIM on board was a natural fit.”

Roles and Funding

RAKIM joins Notes as a co-founder and advisory board member. His son, Tahmell Griffin, also holds an executive position within the company.

Currently self-funded, Notes is actively seeking a pre-seed funding round. The platform operates on a freemium and premium subscription model, generating revenue through subscriptions and referral fees.

DIVINE views this venture as the culmination of his experiences in both the music and technology sectors.

The Vision for Notes

“My goal is for Notes to redefine the artist-label dynamic,” DIVINE stated. “We want to empower artists to own their financial future and achieve career success.”

He envisions Notes as a success if it enables artists to secure funding, manage their careers effectively, and foster collaborative growth within the community.