Rakim, one of Hip-Hop's most revered and respected lyricists has launched Notes, an AI powered financial literacy program for independent urban artists. This innovative financial technology and platform merges music, money, and knowledge to address the growing challenges faced by independent urban music artists and creators.

According to a press release, Notes redefines access to capital to fund creative projects for creators, while providing financial literacy, and entrepreneurial and music business education to build sustainable careers. Notes is designed to empower these artists with financial independence, while retaining control over their careers in an industry that has been historically marked by exploitation.

Notes sits at the intersection of fintech, urban culture, and the creator economy, where billions are generated annually. Led by Rakim and longtime associate Divine, Notes unites decades of expertise in urban music and culture, entrepreneurship, and technology to empower further generations of urban music creatives.

In other Rakim news, he released God's Network in 2024. God's Network is his first studio album in 15 years. The seven song album is produced solely by Rakim, and he provides the cuts and scratches as well. The star-studded release includes features from Kool G. Rap, Method Man, Kurupt, Chino XL, DMX, Canibus, KXNG Crooked, Masta Killah and many more.

Stand out songs include the lead single, "Be Ill" which features Masta Killah and Kurupt, "Pendulum Swing" featuring Canibus, La The Darkman, KXNG Krooked, and Chino XL, and "International" with Kool G. Rap, Joell Ortiz, and Tristate.

In an interview with KXNG Crooked, Rakim revealed that he isn't new to production or DJing, and that he produced a great deal of his catalog. Rakim says that he scratched on "Musical Massacre" from 1988's Follow The Leader, Crooked asked what percentage of his catalog he produced or co-produced. "I think 80 percent of the catalog I produced," he said.

Check out God's Network here.