REVOLT World 2023 was a well-curated weekend of diasporic cultural impact in its many forms.
The first installment of the three-day event of Black excellence featured performances and appearances from Moneybagg Yo, Don Toliver, King Combs, Uncle Luke and more. The conference formerly known as REVOLT Summitt, has evolved into what REVOLT’S CEO calls a step closer to the “Black Disney World.”
“When you think about REVOLT World, think about global expansion,” says CEO Detavio Samuels.”Think about unlocking the potential within the culture so we can all get one step closer to our dreams.
The inaugural weekend set a standard for many years to come.
“To see a company launch with the purpose of leading a music rebellion, to now step into a role where we’re leading a revolution for Black people and Black creatives to be unapologetic in the stories that they tell, is a beautiful thing,” says Samuels.
Samuels, who assumed the role as CEO of Revolt in 2021, certainly led a successful weekend alongside an immaculate team to execute the vision. With the launch of its podcast network back in May, lead by GM, Akinwole Garrett, REVOLT made a fervent commitment to further its pursuit of putting the storytelling prowess into the hands of creators.
A number of fan-favorites including “Caresha Please,” “Drink Champs,” Samuel’s “The Blueprint” and “Black Girl Stuff, ”each held a live episode during the event-filled weekend.
“Anything that I say, I can always grow from,”said Tori Brixx, ¼ of the “Black Girl Stuff” podcast.
Brixx’s, who once felt she needed a journalism degree to become a media personality, gives credit to to her co-hosts for easing her transition as a podcaster and creator.
“I don’t have to feel restricted. I’m learning from these women as well. Having that sisterhood really helped my transition (into podcasting).”
Brixx also served as one of many DJs who set the tone for REVOLT World.
The weekend (Sept. 22-25) also arrived on the heels of the release of Diddy’s (a.k.a “Love”) new project, The Love Album: Off The Grid. The music mogul returned to his roots of hit-making bops with an R&B project that reminded anyone who had forgotten or were unfamiliar with his legacy.
Throughout the weekend, attendees heard Diddy’s latest effort in many forms: from the mainstage, to a personalized experience called “The Love Lounge.” Decked out in bold bright red LED screens synonymous to the album’s color theme and comfortable lounge couches, fans were awarded a unique session, soaked in nuance, high frequency and a whole lotta red.
In addition to REVOLT World, the brand is celebrating its 10-year anniversary.
“We’re not just a media company. We’re an engine for transformative change,” says Samuels.
And that change was unequivocally prevalent at REVOLT World 2023.