Kesha, the trailblazing pop icon known for her chart-topping anthems and electric performances, is returning to Washington! Aside from running Girls in Tech, she’s just launching her new startup, Smash. At 38 years old, Kesha aims to create a “community-based platform to connect and protect music creators,” aligning with her recently established record label, which bears her name.
The launch of Smash demonstrates Kesha’s dedication to putting artists first through every step of the music making process. Their vision is to help musicians and creators everywhere by empowering collaboration, community, and creativity through their new platform. Kesha’s hope for Smash is that it can be a place where artists not only collaborate but do so while having all rights to their work protected.
In an Instagram post, Kesha shared her vision for the startup:
“community-based platform to connect and protect music creators.”
Kesha’s new business move follows her establishment of Kesha Rose Records, her very own eponymous record label announced late last year. The label’s mission to use art for social change fits perfectly with Smash’s mission. Both highlight the crucial need for artist independence in an industry that is notorious for taking advantage of creators.
Beyond her business endeavors, Kesha’s artistic repertoire goes far beyond the glitter-clad party songs she’s known for. Her creativity is on display across all 12 themes, including an especially unforgettable song about brushing your teeth with Jack Daniel’s. Kesha has a B.A. in English from the University of Pennsylvania. Her previous work as a Princeton in Asia Fellow in Laos has provided her with some invaluable experience that deepens her projects with a much broader perspective.
In leading the technical side of Smash, Kesha has recruited Alan Cannistraro to serve as Chief Technology Officer. Their end goal is creating a platform that prioritizes collaboration between artists. Along with this, they help guarantee creators have control over their work.
To show just how serious she is about embarking on this venture, Kesha is personally funding the seed round for Smash. Since taking office, she’s made national headlines by removing the dollar sign from her name. This big-time gamble further affirms her growth as an artist and dedication to making a significant impact on the music biz.
Recently, Kesha performed at a music festival, further solidifying her presence as both an artist and now a startup founder. As she plans her next move, she’s committed to creating a supportive culture for other independent creators.
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