Klarna, the AI-driven global payments network and shopping assistant, is now integrated into Apple Pay, giving users the ability to choose flexible payment methods when making online or in-app purchases on iPhones and iPads running iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 or later. Starting today, customers in the U.S. and U.K. can enjoy Klarna’s interest-free installment options, such as paying later in three or four equal payments or financing purchases over longer periods with APRs starting from 0%. Canada is next on the list for future expansion.
“We’ve been hearing from consumers worldwide asking for Klarna on Apple Pay, and I’m thrilled to finally offer it to them. Our flexible, interest-free payment methods are now even more accessible when shopping online or in apps in the U.S., U.K., and soon, Canada. This is a significant step in our mission to offer Klarna at every checkout,” said Klarna’s Co-founder and CEO, Sebastian Siemiatkowski.
Klarna’s Pay in 4 option allows users to split purchases from $35 to $2,000 into four fixed, interest-free payments. For higher-value items, Klarna offers financing with monthly installments starting at 0% APR.
“We’re excited to give Apple Pay users in the U.S. and U.K. more options at checkout with Klarna’s flexible payments,” said Jennifer Bailey, Apple’s Vice President of Apple Pay and Apple Wallet. “Now users can split their payments over time while enjoying the simplicity and security of Apple Pay.”
This integration makes Klarna’s payment services even more accessible, allowing users to make purchases directly from their iPhone or iPad through Apple Pay, whether shopping online or in apps.
To use Klarna at checkout, eligible users should select “Other Cards & Pay Later Options” when paying with Apple Pay, choose Klarna, and then review the available payment plans. After agreeing to the terms, users authenticate their purchase with Face ID or Touch ID, completing the transaction securely. Klarna will make a lending decision, which does not affect the customer’s credit score.
The privacy and security of Apple Pay remain intact—Apple does not track or store any transaction data when Klarna is used.
Additionally, Klarna introduced “Apple from Klarna,” a dedicated storefront in the Klarna app and website, where U.S. customers can buy Apple products using Klarna’s payment options.
With 85 million active users, Klarna is the leading BNPL provider globally. As the company continues to grow, it aims to be a preferred payment solution in every digital wallet and online checkout experience.
Key Information:
Klarna now works with Apple Pay for online and in-app purchases on iPhone and iPad running iOS 18 or later.
To use Klarna, select “Other Cards & Pay Later Options” at checkout, then choose Klarna.
Klarna’s Pay in 4 option offers interest-free payments, while financing is available for larger purchases.
Klarna’s approval process does not affect your credit score.
Apple does not store transaction histories when Klarna is used for payments.
Afterpay is embarking on an exciting new phase by merging with Cash App, rebranding as Cash App Afterpay.
This strategic partnership between the two fintech companies, both subsidiaries of Block Inc., is set to broaden access to buy now, pay later (BNPL) services, reaching an extensive network of merchants. The collaboration also connects retailers to Cash App’s vast consumer base, which is primarily composed of engaged, tech-savvy Gen Z users who prefer flexible payment solutions.
Expanded Reach for Merchants and Consumers
As Afterpay becomes integrated within Cash App, retailers who already offer the BNPL service will be able to connect with Cash App’s enormous network. With 57 million active monthly users and 25 million active Cash App Card users, the platform offers a robust customer base.
Nick Molnar, cofounder of Afterpay and global head of sales at Block, expressed that Cash App’s broad user network allows merchants to access a larger customer pool while also providing consumers with easy-to-use and transparent payment alternatives. Molnar believes this merger will accelerate the popularity of BNPL services in the United States and drive Cash App’s growth.
Boosting Sales for Retail Partners
Tanuj Parikh, Head of Revenue for Afterpay and Cash App in North America, explained that combining Afterpay’s BNPL services with Cash App’s audience will enable retailers to reach more customers and grow sales. Parikh emphasized that this collaboration will provide consumers with seamless access to BNPL options wherever Afterpay is accepted, making it easier for them to enjoy flexible and accessible payment methods.
He also noted that Millennials and Gen Z are especially drawn to BNPL services over traditional credit, preferring responsible spending and enhanced liquidity for both small and large purchases.
Both Brands Trusted by Consumers
Afterpay and Cash App have both earned significant consumer trust over the years. Cash App ranked among the top five most authentic brands for Gen Z in a 2023 YPulse survey, while Afterpay was recognized as the most trusted BNPL provider in a 2023 report by Afterpay and Oxford Economics.
Interestingly, Parikh revealed that most Cash App users have never used Afterpay before. The goal, he said, is to provide them with an easy, reliable, and transparent way to pay over time. With this new integration, Cash App will cater to the growing demand for alternative credit options outside traditional banking systems.
Introducing the ‘Cash In’ Campaign
To further promote the new offerings, Cash App will debut a national marketing campaign called “Cash In,” showcasing the enhanced suite of banking features and the combined power of both platforms. The campaign will feature videos that demonstrate how Cash App can help consumers make their money go further while seamlessly integrating Afterpay into their financial lives.
On January 15, 2025, LLX hosted a transformative event, Indulge NYC: Legacy & Vision, at The Chelsea House in New York City. This exclusive gathering brought together the city’s brightest minds, forward-thinking investors, and innovators to spark meaningful discussions on generational wealth, financial empowerment, and visionary leadership.
The Indulge NYC series has established itself as a hub for engaging conversations and celebrations of excellence. This latest installment built on its successful history, including prior events honoring figures like Yung Joc for his movie Allure and featuring celebrity stylist Ty Hunter, actor Julito McCullum from HBO’s The Wire, and actress Kristin Dodson of Amazon Prime’s Cross.
Founder Tyla Jones-Champion expressed the event’s mission succinctly: “Indulge NYC has become a beacon for transformative conversations around wealth and vision.” She emphasized how the event series empowers individuals to shape the futures of their families and communities.
Key Highlights
Live Q&A Sessions: Attendees engaged with leading entrepreneurs and wealth strategists.
Interactive Networking: Opportunities abounded to connect with investors, real estate moguls, and financial experts.
Visionary Recognition: The event honored trailblazers shaping the future of equity and wealth-building.
Co-hosted with Alpha, the event emphasized action and ambition, reflecting Indulge NYC’s dedication to fostering cultural and professional connections.
The Hampton Cannabis EXPO (THC) event celebrates the mission of its founders to connect people with opportunity with its 2024 exhibition. THC is shifting trends and connecting people while providing opportunities in this new alternative medicine revolution. The 2024 event was held in South Hamptons with several exhibitions, sponsors present, and speakers with diverse perspective at The Hampton Cannabis Expo event held on the Shinnecock Sovereign Lands.
The conference has brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including Clinicians & Healers who explore new integrative medicine approaches to improve patient outcomes, Pharma & Biotech representatives who discussed advancements in the Cannabis industry and how the political climate effects it all.
Present were also Investors along with Legal Experts who addressed ways to navigate the evolving regulatory landscape and investment opportunities in Cannabis, especially with the ever changing political climate effecting laws in the industry when it comes to manufacturers and wellness product developers all there showcasing innovative products and treatments.
As the landscape of medical treatment evolves, so does the focus of key conferences that drive these discussions. The 7th Annual THC EXPO event, titled “Psychedelics & Cannabis in Chronic Disease Management: Integrative Medicine Approaches,” held panel discussions that displayed reflectance of a strategic shift to align with the latest trends in medical cannabis and psychedelics. There was also short workshops to get the bodies moving, stretching and remind attendees the importance of overall health.
Government Agencies, Entrepreneurs, CEO’s, and Angel Investors, use the platform of the Expo to educate attendees and share their perspectives on market trends.
As the landscape of medical treatment evolves, so does the focus of key conferences that drive these discussions. The 7th Annual THC EXPO event, titled “Psychedelics & Cannabis in Chronic Disease Management: Integrative Medicine Approaches,” held panel discussions that displayed reflectance of a strategic shift to align with industry shifts.
It was a fun time of networking and collaboration.
Ludacris, known for his diverse talents, is partnering with State Farm to highlight the significance of community, good neighbors, and safeguarding against life’s unforeseen challenges.
A Little About Ludacris
Cristopher Brian Bridges, also known as Ludacris, is a hip-hop artist, actor, television personality, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. More importantly, he’s a human who has demonstrated a heart for others. Ludacris was born in Illinois but reared in ATL (Atlanta). His ascent to mainstream prominence commenced in 2000 with the launch of his second album. Over the years, Ludacris has earned significant acclaim for his talents, with Rolling Stone once dubbing him.
“That rare brand of rapper who shows you his skills as much as he tells you about them,”
Transitioning into the film industry, Ludacris expanded his horizons, eventually venturing into business ownership and investment. In 2001, he founded The Ludacris Foundation, which directed efforts to community outreach, especially targeting the youth.
Ludacris And State Farm
Ludacris and Jake: State Farm Commercial. Image source: Diana Greis.
Ludacris is actively contributing once again by collaborating with State Farm alongside Jake in a special commercial. This advertisement is a key component of a broader campaign aimed at enlightening people on the importance of insurance and underscoring the valuable contributions that State Farm Agents bring to the table.
Ludacris & State Farm: More Details
Titled “This is Ludacris,” the ad is scheduled to debut on November 24, and Ludacris is excited to be a part of it. The multi-talented personality believes that “everyone has moments where they need a helping hand, and surrounding yourself with a community of good neighbors is one of the best ways to make life more enjoyable.”
And because he can relate, he felt this partnership was a perfect fit.
In Summation
Most people are familiar with State Farm commercials featuring catchy jingles and the amiable Jake, known for his heartwarming smile and willingness to lend a helping hand. Now, with the inclusion of Ludacris, there’s yet another reason to smile.
Culinary royalty Pepsi Dig In is a powerful platform committed to uplifting, empowering, and showcasing Black-owned restaurants. The Restaurant Royalty Residency program returned to Las Vegas on September 30, promising a memorable experience where every bite becomes an exceptional moment when paired with Pepsi. Savoring exclusive dishes crafted by six new Black-owned restaurants from across the nation, made their debut at MGM Resorts International for the first time.
This platform has a breathtaking showcase of innovative cuisines and culinary brilliance in one of the country’s hottest culinary destinations. Featuring Esco Restaurant & Tapas run by the renowned multi-platinum, Grammy Award®-winning MC 2 Chainz, this year’s lineup promises an array of flavors and unique concepts that will literally tickle your tongue to no end.
From 2 Chainz To Pepsi Zero Sugar: A Residency Beyond Food
Earlier this year, food enthusiasts were invited to nominate their favorite Black-owned restaurants as Restaurant Royalty, turning the spotlight on the most notable establishments across the nation. Subsequently, a lucky winner emerged, as Cranky Granny’s Sweet Rolls from Pflugerville, Texas, secured a spot alongside Esco Restaurant & Tapas at MGM Resorts International. Together, these culinary masters will serve their signature creations, crafting limited-edition menu items available exclusively for a limited period at Libertine Social at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino and Public House at Luxor Hotel and Casino.
However, the experience doesn’t stop at flavors alone. Not only will your palate be treated to a variety of flavors, but the residency also introduces two exclusive cocktails, amplifying the creativity and partnership behind this event. One of these cocktails is inspired by 2 Chainz, featuring STARRY®, and the other features the invigorating taste of Pepsi® Zero Sugar.
“No matter your background, building and running a restaurant is a constant grind but that’s what makes the rewards, like this residency, worth it. Opportunities for this kind of exposure in Vegas can be life-changing for businesses. It’s great to see brands like Pepsi Dig In and MGM put the power of their platforms behind these talented Black entrepreneurs, and it’s a privilege to be among them,” said 2 Chainz.
The Pepsi Dig In Restaurant Royalty Residency, hosted at Mandalay Bay’s Libertine Social and Luxor’s Public House, kicked off on September 30 and will continue until February 6. This event presents delicious food from Black-owned restaurants nationwide, offering a tempting selection of flavors.
Esco Restaurant & Tapas, Co-Founders 2 Chainz and Mychel “Snoop” Dillard (Atlanta, GA) – Sept. 30 to Oct. 27, 2023
Esco Restaurant & Tapas, brought to you by 2 Chainz and Mychel “Snoop” Dillard. Hailing from Atlanta, this business transforms from a tasty restaurant by day into a vibrant lounge by night.
2 Chainz x Pepsi Dig In Restaurant Royalty Residency. Credit: Pepsi
With locations sprinkled across the nation, it’s a celebrated spot for seafood and Southern cuisine. For a limited time in Vegas, food lovers enjoyed a cherished favorite of 2 Chainz: the Blackened Salmon Alfredo Pasta, a mouthwatering fusion of Cajun-seasoned fish and classic alfredo sauce. Additionally, fans had the opportunity to enjoy an exclusive cocktail created especially for this residency by 2 Chainz. That’s one way to keep the fans coming back for more!
Blackened Salmon Alfredo Pasta, a fusion of Cajun-seasoned fish and classic alfredo sauce. Credit: PepsiCo Beverages North America
Cranky Granny’s Sweet Rolls. Credit: PepsiCo Beverages North America
Cranky Granny’s Sweet Rolls has claimed the top spot in the Pepsi Dig In Restaurant Royalty contest as the favored Black-owned eatery. They dished out their signature Churro Cinnamon Roll, adorned with a timeless cream cheese glaze, and a delightful drizzle of chocolate and caramel. To top it off, it’s crowned with luscious vanilla ice cream, billowy whipped cream, and a plump, juicy strawberry. It was the perfect bite to make cranky granny smile – and the rest of us too!
Taylor’s Tacos, Co-Owners Taylor and Maya Mason (Chicago, IL) – Oct. 28 to Nov. 24, 2023
Taylor’s Tacos, the king of authentic street taco craftsmanship, is about to blow you away with their Extra-Juicy Chicken Tacos. These flavor-packed delights feature succulent braised chicken thighs, a clandestine salsa that’ll excite your appetite, fresh cilantro, cheese, and a zesty squeeze of lime, all cozily tucked into crispy corn tortillas. That sounds so yummy!
The descriptions of these foods are making me hungry.
Blk Swan’s Signature Seafood Risotto: A Fiery Experience With Pepsi Dig In
Blk Swan, Executive Chef and Co-Owner Saon Brice (Baltimore, MD) – Nov. 25 to Dec. 15, 2023
Blk Swan, renowned for its New American menu, is an unforgettable rendition of their signature seafood risotto. The juicy shrimp, plump scallops, Maryland’s finest jumbo lump crab, a touch of white wine, and the fiery kick of sambal. So if you’re looking to “spice” things up, Blk Swan is the place to go!
LoLo’s on The Water, Executive Chef Raymond Mohan and Co-Owner Leticia Skai Young (New York, NY) – Dec. 16, 2023 to Jan. 12, 2024
Executive Chef Raymond Mohan and Co-Owner Leticia Skai Young of Lolo’s on The Water. Credit: New York Post
LoLo’s on The Water drew inspiration from vibrant island flavors to craft an exquisite cuisine specific to their residency. The Island BBQ Beef Shank Platter is an appetizer that consists of BBQ beef shanks, coated in a luscious achiote glaze. This dish is accompanied by warm and fluffy Johnny Cakes, perfectly complemented by the sweet allure of honey-rum glazed plantains.
Lolo’s on The Water. Credit: Harlem World Magazine
Curry Channa Doubles By A James Beard Finalist
Bridgetown Roti, Chef and Owner Rashida Holmes (Los Angeles, CA) – Jan. 13 to Feb. 6, 2024
The James Beard Award finalist is set to amaze you with a vegan meal straight from her Los Angeles Caribbean pop-up. Curry Channa Doubles is a dish that combines Trinidadian-bara bread, rich curry chickpeas, refreshing cucumber chutney, zesty lime, and a tamarind sauce. It’s so good, you’ll forget you’re vegan!
Chef and Owner Rashida Holmes of Bridgetown Roti. Credit: The New York Times
“Las Vegas provides a valuable culinary stage and unparalleled business opportunity for restaurateurs. In partnership with MGM Resorts International, the Pepsi Dig In Restaurant Royalty Residency Program is putting Black-owned restaurants and chefs in front of foodies from around the world,” said Scott Finlow, CMO of PepsiCo Global Foodservice.
MGM Resorts’ Commitment To Diversity And Culinary Excellence
Entering its second year, the residency program reconnects with the big Pepsi Dig In initiative. Therefore, this is a platform dedicated to finding and celebrating Black-owned eateries. However, it’s not just about food – Pepsi Dig In goes above and beyond. It offers resources, advice, and training to Black restaurateurs, all made possible through the support of PepsiCo.
This venture was built in harmony with MGM Resorts’ ongoing commitment to diversity and fairness. As a result, it’s part of their mission to create a rich and diverse environment for employees, guests, community partners, and others. In other words, it’s an experience that’s not just about sampling food but also about encouraging change and promoting a more diverse culture.
“MGM Resorts continues to deepen our commitment to social impact by focusing on the intersection of culinary excellence and diverse representation,” said Tony Gladney, MGM Resorts International Vice President of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. “Together with Pepsi, we’re proving that delicious food can drive meaningful change, and we look forward to another year of extraordinary culinary experiences that celebrate diversity and spark meaningful conversations.”
Introducing Pepsi Dig In: Unleashing The Flavorful Revolution
The Pepsi Dig In initiative was developed to enhance access, fuel business growth, and highlight the vibrant world of Black-owned restaurants. There’s more to them than food; they’re about forging connections, fostering awareness, and creating change.
Pepsi Dig In serves up a delicious buffet of experiences. It’s your go-to guide to exploring, dining at, and supporting Black-owned restaurants. In the age of eating out, there are plenty of options available to you. You’ll experience all kinds of flavors, and with every bite, you’re participating in an inspiring cause.
With the power of PepsiCo and its key partners, they’re on a mission to create endless opportunities for Black-owned restaurants. It’s a flavor riot, and you’re right at the center of it.
Pepsi Dig In sprang to life in 2020 as part of PepsiCo’s Racial Equality Journey (REJ). Taking things a step further – they pledged $50 million to uplift Black-owned businesses over five years. It’s a piece of their larger REJ project, a $400 million investment to enhance representation within PepsiCo. In addition, Pepsi Dig In champions Black-owned enterprises, and paves the way for economic growth in the communities we love.
Tyler Perry. Image source: Richard Shotwell, Associated Press.
The news of the denial of Tyler Perry’s bid to purchase BET has left more than a few members of the community disillusioned and shocked. While this has left many mired in confusion, the details are clear.
Tyler Perry’s Bid Makes Headlines
One of the biggest news stories of 2023 was when news broke of Tyler Perry’s impending ownership of BET. The prospect of this ownership transition had captured the attention and anticipation of many, as they speculated about its potential impact on both BET and the cultural landscape.
And the news was only amplified when the news broke of another candidate entering the bidding game. In a March article in Variety, it was announced both Tyler Perry and Byron Allen were actively competing to secure a majority stake in the network. And assurances were high.
Amidst the rising excitement, the spreading news of Tyler Perry’s eventual selection as the future owner was widely celebrated. However, as the saying goes, “All’s well, that ends well.” Recent headlines show that this narrative took an unexpected turn, revealing the story was far from over.
Perry’s Bid Rejected
At present, Tyler Perry’s aspiration for a majority stake in BET has not materialized. According to the New York Post, Perry’s bid fell short of the initial asking price, which was reportedly set at $3 billion. Perry’s bid was 1 billion under the asking price.
What about the initial announcements of transference of ownership? Paramount, at some point, was considering Perry’s offer. But things changed. As HipHopDx reports, “Despite promising to go forward with the sale, Paramount officially announced its cancellation on Wednesday (August 16),” a turn of events marking a significant departure from the earlier indications of progression in the ownership transition.
Confusion Abounds
Given the rejection, one can’t help but wonder what could have turned the tide. Prior to Tyler Perry’s bid, Paramount had expressed a desire to facilitate a return of the network to minority ownership. Byron Allen, another contender who had shown keen interest in acquiring the network, submitted a bid that aligned with the corporation’s stipulated asking price. According to the New York Post, Allen did indeed bid 3 million to purchase a majority stake. But Paramount did not enter talks with Allen.
But why not if the reason for Perry’s denial is the asking price? The Washington Post explains that this decision was attributed to Allen’s perceived lack of firmly established financing. Thus. Perry became the logical choice. But, the New York Post notes, “Sources said Allen received letters from banks saying that they are confident they would finance the offer, which is at well more than a 12 times Ebitda [earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization] multiple after they conducted more due diligence.” Things that make one go, um!
However, Wednesday’s announcement has cast doubts on the assumption that Perry was the natural fit based solely on Paramount’s decision regarding Allen. The situation has proven to be more complex than anticipated, leaving room for further inquiry into the underlying reasons for the turn of events.
Why Choose Perry Initially
Paramount held a positive view of Tyler Perry, recognizing him as a potential “good steward” for the operation, further enhanced by his existing stake in the corporation and established relationship. Variety notes, “Perry and BET’s relationship dates to the 2005 release of “Diary of a Mad Black Woman, which they helped fund.” Given these connections, Perry’s candidacy for ownership was logically more appealing.
A Tangled Web
Paramount purports its withdrawal is based purely on the bottom line. Fiscally going with Perry did not make sense. A statement from the company read,
“We made this decision because the benefits of maintaining a majority stake in BET Media Group creates more value for Paramount than any of the proposals we received.”
This explanation, while rational, leaves room for further examination, especially in light of their initial inclinations. Such again swivels the spotlight back: why was Byron Allen’s bid not embraced?
Making Sense of It All
There are several conclusions one could contrive to explain the backpedaling. But those would be speculation. All that exists are the facts. Paramount’s decision to reject the bid stands on the grounds of financial justifications. Unfortunately, the public may never know if this is the only rationale for pulling the offer.
But what does that mean for programming? The implications of this decision on future programming remain uncertain, as no official statement has been released detailing its potential impact. But for fans of Mary J. Blige, the sun will come out, as they can look forward to more of her talk show “The Wine Down.”
Hard Knock Life
There is always a lesson. And the lesson here is to only buy into the hype once the papers are signed and ownership formally transferred. Until then, everything else is an illusion. Stay vigilant.
July 11 Women in Music proudly announced the newest additions to their organization. This year’s selectees are a group of esteemed women tapped to help carry the broader vision of female empowerment in the music industry. The announced leaders are exceptional individuals who will be positioned as either ambassadors or Advisory Board Members.
What Is Women In Music?
Women in Music is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization formed in 1985. It is an organization with a forward vision of empowerment., with the chief focus of being a pillar of support for women with pursuits in music. Their commitment is to,
“Advancing equality, visibility, and opportunities for women in the musical arts through education, support, empowerment, and recognition.”
And they accomplish this through targeted initiatives and programs such as leadership summits, webinars, seminars, workshops, achievement awards, and performance showcases.
Who Are The New Women In Music Additions?
The tapped additions include successful women positioned throughout the industry. These include professionals such as “record label executives, artist managers, songwriters, musicians, attorneys, recording engineers, agents, publicists, studio owners, music publishers, marketers, and more.” The newly appointed ambassadors include Rapsody, Faryal Khan-Thompson, Amy Davidman, Dina Marto, Adriana Arce, and a host of professionals as advisory board members.
Ambassador #1: Rapsody
Image source: The Garnette Report.
Rapsody is a seasoned hip-hop artist. She is a legend in the rap game, with a solidified presence lifting her to the status of an icon. Even more so, she is a consummate professional. She has amassed an unprecedented amount of respect for her trail-blazing efforts. And honor and achievement follow her. Rapsody has won multiple awards as a demonstration of her talent and work ethic. One of those esteemed efforts was being named as one of XXL’s 2014 greatest female rappers of all time.
Ambassador #2: Faryal Kahn-Thompson
Image source: TuneCore.
Faryal Khan-Thompson is a Senior Vice President of Marketing and Community Engagement. She is a talented businesswoman who has contributed her talents to TuneCore and, presently, Downtown Music Holdings.
Thompson’s expertise extends to international growth strategy, marketing, operations, partnerships, and more. She excels at what she does as an impassioned leader who is driven to “create a diverse music ecosystem and open the door to greater opportunities for women, specifically the BIPOC communities.” And now, she serves as one of the newly appointed ambassadors of WIM.
Ambassador #3: Amy Davidman
Image source: TBA.
Davidman is an established agent and also the co-founder of TBA (A new independent agency) representing such artists as Vittar, Barnett, Cain, Orion Sun, Girlpool, and Hurray For the Riff Raff. TBA is unlike any other agency in the market. It is a forward-looking agency where according to its Lookbook, “PRIDE IS Everyday,” and thus has received recognition from major industry platforms, such as Billboard, Pitchfork, and Variety.
There is no doubting Davidman is a powerful force earning significant honors, even apart from entrepreneurial endeavors. As a testament to Davidman’s fervor and passion, in 2021, 2022, and 2023, Davidman earned the distinction of making Billboard’s International Power Player list, a worthy achievement. And as a newly tapped ambassador of WIM, there is no doubt David will serve with heart and unbridled passion.
Ambassador #4: Dina Marto
Image source: Zach Wolfe.
Marto is an exemplary individual with over two decades as a music executive under her belt, which is impressive. However, such is not uncommon for an entrepreneurial powerhouse with unparalleled business acumen. One of her notable undertakings was that of Twelve Music & Studios, founded in 2012, a standout offering. Twelve Music & Studios has been touted as,
“The South’s most sought-after creative environments to develop talent and produce Billboard-shattering hits,” and rightly so.
Marto’s experience in the music industry runs deep. Marto is noted to have contributed her talents in A&R at Island Def Jam, offering her expertise as coordinator for albums with artists such as Nas, Janet Jackson, LL Cool J, and Rick Ross. And she currently serves on TI’s management team. However, this is a small measure of Marto’s contributions. Marto has also taken an active role in spreading the Women in Music vision. In fact, they credit her with helping to launch the Women in Music Chapter in Atlanta, Georgia.
Ambassador #5: Adriana Arce
Image source: Women In Music.
Arce is another amazing woman with an entrepreneurial spirit. Currently, Arce is the Vice President at REBEL. However, Arce has performed in a leadership capacity for over a decade. According to WIM, she is noted to have managed talent artists Miley Cyrus and Lil Nas X. Such aligns with Arce’s passions. As an artist first, music has always been a driving force for Arce. Before stepping into an executive role, she was a musician, full-time artist, and performer.
But beyond her talent, her ambition and desire to be an agent of change is awe-inspiring. Her tenacious spirit and efforts in the industry earned her a spot on Forbes Magazine’s 30 Under 30. But what is truly amazing is even with such a luminary track record, Arce continues to push for the progress of others. As WIM notes, In Arce’s words,
“We still have so much further to go in providing more opportunities for women and minority people across entertainment. It’s not enough to hire.”
Women In Music: An Organization Worthy Of Highlight
Although established 38 years ago, Women In Music is an organization that continues to be a massive force of change, striving to service women across the globe from” Los Angeles to Japan.” In a world where many struggle to be heard or rise from obscurity, Women in Music puts action behind the belief “That the conversation around equality is an inclusive one, where all voices are welcome.” That is something everyone can get behind.
Where there are agents of change, there is always something to celebrate. And the Women of Music organization is one such force. So a big hip-hop salute to Women in Music.
IB Majekodunmi Toasts to Women's History Month at Planet Her with Ketel One in Chicago-Courtesy of IB's team
Women’s History Month has passed. However, IB Majekodunmi seizes the chance to advance women daily. This young mogul founded Refine Collective, a digital community that makes it easy to identify and support minority-owned businesses and freelancers.
With its mission to funnel purchasing power into the hands of the underrepresented, IB’s Refine Collective initiative is spearheading a lane to mission accomplishment. Making Forbes as one of today’s highlighted innovative leaders is just a token of her successful accomplishments.
IB Majekodumni, Founder of Refine Collective
A Mogul in the Making
Coming from a non-traditional background in a “niche tech space,” eProcurement, IB encountered purchasing power and buying power topics. She was also then introduced to the knowledge of dealing with vendors. While women in tech were considered “sexy” at the time, she quickly realized it was a heavily white-male-dominated space.
Outside of work, she was heavily involved in community organizations. Heading a young professionals board for a non-profit organization and even helping to start an organization called Healthy in Chicago which is growing increasingly successful, was just a taste of her community involvement.
Supporting diverse communities has always been home to IB. What started as a hobby would grow into something much greater. Her work experience and growing network of women and minority-owned businesses prompted a thought. The Chicago community and its small businesses that she loved and supported should be more pronounced.
“Across the street from me, where I lived in the city, it was a new coffee shop. It was black-owned, it was veteran-owned; the coffee was way better than anything you’d get at Starbucks and the guy who started it literally lived in our community. I would see him walking around all the time. Caddy cornered from that was a Starbucks and I would get so annoyed when I would see people walk by the coffee shop with Starbucks cups, and it made me really curious about why we make the buying decisions we do.”
The Birth of Refine Collective
A quick survey sent to her community-curated network revealed a problem. The majority of the survey takers said minority-owned small businesses were hard to find and identify. Putting her project management skills to good use, she built a directory of these hidden-in-plain-sight companies, so Refine Collective was born. Like many, the pandemic allowed the time to really hone in on entrepreneurship opportunities and shifted her business mindset as a whole. IB had already set out to create a solution to an evolving community issue.
Refine Collective Presents: Planet Her-“Makin Herstory at the Conservatory”
IB Majekodunmi continues to trailblaze the lane of inclusivity with Refine City. This directory of women and minority-owned businesses channels the purchasing power of small businesses and presents pop-up market experiences in the Chicago community.
Refine City’s 2nd Annual, Planet Her honored and celebrated over 50 Chicago-based women’s creative curators. In partnership with DIAGEO and its brands such as Bulleit, DeLeon Tequila, and Ketel One, this event set the tone for what’s to come in partnership with supporting Chicago’s local culture.
This event was packed with live art performances by diverse women creators such as Alyssa Low, Barderies Hampton, and a live musical performance by Nyla XO.
Kirsten Corley Celebrates Women’s History Month at Planet HER Presented by DIAGEO and its brands with event founder IB Majekodunmi.(Courtesy photo)
Nyla XO Performing at Planet HER Presented by DIAGEO and its brands, Johnnie Walker, Ketel One and Seedlip.jpg
DIAGEO and its brands, Ketel One, Seedlip, and Johnnie Walker Honor Women’s History Month at Planet HER in Chicago.
Passion Meets Purpose
Since beginning pop-up markets in 2021, there has been a balance of fresh talent and building a great community with OG’s that they’ve worked with at every market. The passion for her purpose is also something that helps her to identify the brands showcased in her markets.
IB shared her thought process when searching social media for brands in the e-commerce community. The small-big city of Chicago is known for its creative talents. How do you foster diversity in your own world, work, and your everyday life?
“You can create quality things but what does this stuff mean at the end of the day, what does it mean to you? So I try to be really thoughtful about who we partner with.”
The Future of Planet Her
She also has plans to bring in young girls who foster the entrepreneurial spirit. Partnering with non-profit organizations that are youth-focused is how she plans to propel young women in Chicago.
She also plans to nurture the great partnerships accumulated in her amazing journey to solidifying entrepreneur greatness.
I really hope Planet Her will continue to grow every year along with DIAGEO and its brands, our other partners to be able to scale and invite more women-owned businesses and align different brands who want to align their mission to support different women in their causes and their businesses.
Birdman. Image source: Matt Winkelmeyer, Getty Images for BET.
Birdman still wants his respect. He says on Instagram that executives should be recognized too.
“Im confused about 50 yrs of hip hop where they salute legendary artists which is well respeked. Also I think CEOs who kept these artists alive to be great showed them how to keep hip hop alive should be saluted in a major way.”
Cash Money/Young Money
A few people agreed with the Cash Money boss, including Quality Control CEO “P” and Snoop Dogg, highlighting that Birdman and his brother Slim put in the work.
You do have to admit that Birdman and Slim put together a label that ran in the late 90s and early 2000s. The label had Lil Wayne, who had the game in the palm of his hands for years.
Ultimately, he paved the way for Drake and Nicki Minaj to be the stars that they are. Birdman has seen a lot of success with these three artists alone.
Here’s our list of the top 10 Hip-Hop Record Label CEOs. What are your thoughts? pic.twitter.com/8hwdogebgK
Labels have always impacted Hip Hop immensely; therefore, Stunna does have a point. Cash Money/Young Money shifted the culture more than a few times.
The popular financial podcast Earn Your Leisure released its list of top ten CEOs in Hip Hop history. Birdman is at the top of their CEO list. Next are Diddy, Jay-Z, Dr. Dre, Russell Simmons, Master P, LA Reid, Dame Dash, Jermaine Dupri, and Suge Knight. The Cash Money boss saw the list and said “P” from Quality Control should also be on the list.
“P from @QC should be 2nd no doubt noshade jus being real gangsta CMRG.”
Birdman’s Innstagram post screenshot. Image source: Instagram.
It looks like Birdman has liked this list since being number one, but there’s no doubt he still wants that official list from Billboard.
B.G. Almost Home
Just last week, the Cash Money CEO gave an update on rapper B.G. as he is serving time behind bars. Birdman took to Instagram to post the picture of his friend with the caption, “Be home in a minute.” B.G. ‘s scheduled release is for April of 2024, but Stunna has been hinting at an early release for a while.
