Traveling internationally has opened my eyes to the immense opportunities available for people of color across the globe. Specifically, African-American musicians and multimedia creators have untapped potential worldwide. What I’ve discovered is that nearly everyone aspires to achieve the level of fame and success associated with American culture, as seen in magazines, movies, and videos around the world. Globally, people strive to “BE LIKE MIKE,” and for many, Mike represents the African-American celebrity.
As a staunch advocate for education, I believe African-Americans have a unique responsibility to support and educate Africans globally. Let’s explore the current state of the Black music business in the United States. Last year, African-Americans controlled over $20 billion in discretionary income. While this may seem monumental, it pales in comparison to Shell Oil’s $30 billion profit in the UK alone this year. That’s one company in one country, and it significantly affects people of color worldwide.
It’s crucial to note that such profits won’t be invested in the education or protection of marginalized communities. This raises an important question: how can we positively influence the education of people of color worldwide?
One solution lies in creating music and multimedia projects infused with "Old-School" values—works that avoid profanity, tasteless innuendo, or divisive rhetoric. Instead, these projects should inspire thought, spark interest, and stir emotion within listeners.
Reaching the Masses Through TechnologyAccessibility and affordability are key to reaching global audiences. The internet offers an unparalleled medium to achieve this, especially in developing regions where connectivity is driven by mobile phones. According to the International Telecommunication Union, 61% of the world’s 2.7 billion mobile users are in developing countries, compared to just 10% of the 1 billion internet users globally.
In Africa, where over half of the world’s poorest nations are located, cell phones have become a crucial connectivity tool, often replacing PCs. India, with over 226 million mobile subscribers—approximately 19% of its population—adds 7 million new users monthly, driving down the cost of manufacturing and services. Affordable prepaid plans dominate in India, while shared mobile services are thriving across Africa.
Innovative Solutions: The Grameen Foundation ModelThe Grameen Foundation has introduced the Village Phone model to Africa. Microloans enable individuals to purchase kits containing cell phones, rooftop antennas with a 25-kilometer range, and solar panels or car batteries for recharging. Entrepreneurs set up businesses in their homes, selling calls and data transfer services to villagers. This empowers underserved communities and bridges the information gap in remote regions.
Breaking Barriers With Mobile TechnologyCell phone-based internet delivery bypasses government media controls, offering a vital alternative information source. During Kenya’s recent unrest, when the government blacked out news outlets, Kenyans used text messaging to share updates on platforms like the Mashada website, ensuring the world stayed informed and families remained connected.
For producers, writers, musicians, filmmakers, artists, and educators, this opens an entirely new avenue to share projects, products, and ideas with a global market. Mobile technology is extending internet access and creating new possibilities for education, communication, and creativity.
The only missing piece is you—and what you have to share with the world.
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