Shift

An elder said to me “Shift Happens.” The earth continues to shift and move just as our lives, our plans, and our focus continues to shift as time continues forward. For the last 5 years, with the incredible support of our flagship artists, 42k lil, Amari, Zo1, Basi, along with a whole host of affiliated artists, Kingmakers Music has been built on a strong foundation from the creativity of these Kings. In addition, Sis Cava, Sis Renee, Sis Carrie and Sis Quinci have all supported building the vision of Kingmakers Music, and we offer much respect to one and all

Bro Chris Chatmon, our CEO, has held the vision of music as a strategy for narrative change since we first met and started to work together in 2010 when we were the Office of African American Male Achievement. Now that we’ve evolved into Kingmakers of Oakland / Kingmakers Music, we are continuing to push socially conscious, profanity free, life affirming music, mostly in the Hip Hop lane. And, we are shifting. We are now honing In On our focus of artist development for the next generation of artists ages 15-25. We realize that artist development, meaning building skill, gaining knowledge about music, music history, music theory, performance, and learning the business is still vital to keep the community and music culture alive.

So, as we shift our focus from our flagship artists, who are incredible, their work has been extremely valued and appreciated, and they are now prepared to go into the world as alumni artists from Kingmakers Music, we are now turning the page on a new chapter of Kingmakers Music with new releases, and expanding into other areas beyond just Hip Hop.

To Zo1 who’s been our A&R for Kingmakers Music, and led the Black Love album, we thank you for your contribution. We look forward to see what you do next in the world as we truly see your genius, and look forward to supporting you as an alumni artist. To 42k lil and Amari, your lyrical contributions will inspire many generations to come, and we are honored to have your work in the Kingmakers Music catalog. To Basi, thank you for your lyrical skill and your support on all things design. It’s appreciated and has set a standard for how we move forward.

Up next we are working with King Jadon, King Sire, King Raymond, King Hez and King Alejandro, to start, as we develop emerging artists for the next generation. In addition, we have a few special projects we are considering, and will continue to use music as a medium to speak truth to power in these unprecedented times.

Thank you to one and all for your support, and there’s more to come. Stay tuned.

If you or someone you know ages 15-25 is interested in auditioning, hit us up, we’d love to hear from you. 

Forward and Peace.

Jahi, Director of Kingmakers Music

KIngmakers Music & Tough Gong

Kingmakers Music Releases Black Love and Partners with Tuff Gong International Distributors Groundbreaking Collaboration to Uplift Black Culture and Amplify Young Voices

Oakland, CA – November 1, 2024 – Kingmakers Music, launched by Kingmakers of Oakland to create movement music to uplift Black culture that is profanity free, life affirming Hip Hop, released on October 18th their highly anticipated album Black Love on the EVEN platform. This album responds to the narrative that Black youth in Oakland are “out of control” by presenting a unifying message centered on Black love and self-expression. Under the leadership of Jahi, the newly appointed Director of Kingmakers Music, and A&R guidance from Zo1, Black Love showcases the incredible talent of Oakland's young artists. The album draws inspiration from the jazz vibes of Digable Planets and the cultural resonance found in "The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill," presenting a fresh and authentic sound reflective of the Oakland-Bay Area.

In addition to this release, Kingmakers Music proudly announces a new distribution partnership with Tuff Gong International Distributors, the oldest independently owned entertainment company in the Caribbean. Founded by Bob and Rita Marley, Tuff Gong International is a champion in music distribution, mastering, and manufacturing, and also serves as the Caribbean licensee for Universal Music Group. They will distribute the Black Love album globally beginning November 22nd, 2024.

“Black Love is more than just an album; it’s a powerful declaration that celebrates the richness and resilience of our community. We want to challenge the negative narratives surrounding Black youth and showcase the beauty and creativity that exists right here in Oakland. The partnership with Tuff Gong will help us reach youth in the broader African diaspora,” remarked Jahi. Tuff Gong International’s Executive Label Manager, Myshjua Allen Murray, speaking on the collaboration mentions; “We are thrilled to partner with Kingmakers Music. This collaboration not only expands our commitment to independent music but also aligns perfectly with our vision of promoting authenticity and cultural expression in the music.”

This partnership will enhance Kingmakers Music's reach, providing comprehensive distribution options for indie labels, artists, and producers. Additional key benefits include assistance in setting up accounts with RIAA and SoundExchange, consultation with Tuff Gong International Distributor’s team and cross-promotion on Tuff Gong International’s social media accounts. Additionally, artists will have access to a dedicated dashboard for tracking trends, as well as free workshops on music marketing and promotion, enhancing their ability to reach wider audiences.