Vic Mensa is creating a black media empire, but it comes at a high cost.

Vic Mensa has always been known for going against the grain and not conforming to the expectations of the corporate world. From his humble beginnings as a rising rapper in Chicago to his foray into production and even launching his own cannabis brand, he has always been a prime example of determination and creativity. In a time where corporate sponsors often demand a polished and sanitized image, Mensa remains unapologetically himself as he tackles hard-hitting topics such as systemic inequalities, radical politics, and raw truths.

In an exclusive conversation with BLACK ENTERPRISE, Mensa delves into his vision for his latest project, The Vic Mensa Show, and how he navigates the world of corporate partnerships while staying true to his beliefs. When asked about how he maintains authenticity in his show while working with corporate sponsors who may be uncomfortable with his unfiltered approach, Mensa explains that the goal is to find partnerships that align with his political views. He admits that it's not always easy, as they have had to turn down many offers that simply don't align with their values, but he refuses to compromise his beliefs for financial gain.

As for how his team chooses which brands to work with, Mensa reveals that it's a case-by-case basis. He personally focuses on the creative aspect of the show while his team seeks out partnerships and opportunities that make sense for their vision. They are grateful to have partners such as Mass Appeal, YouTube, Spotify, and Apple who understand and support their mission without trying to control their content.

Mensa also talks about the importance of owning his intellectual property (IP) and how it has changed the way he monetizes, takes risks, and structures deals. He emphasizes that owning his IP is crucial in today's industry, as it allows him to retain long-term value and maintain control over his creative expression. He encourages other creators to focus on branding and owning their means of production to build sustainable equity and not just rely on promoting someone else's brand.

The Vic Mensa Show has featured a diverse lineup of guests, including Chance the Rapper, Lena Waithe, Rapsody, Aja Monet, and Van Lathan. When asked about the main takeaway he wants audiences to gather from bringing these voices together, Mensa explains that the dominant theme of this season is the cost of freedom and that every guest has a different experience with it. He also mentions the importance of reimagining how we operate within a system we are inherently part of.

As for his personal goals with the show, Mensa states that his primary motivation is the conversation itself. He doesn't see himself as a media personality, but rather a student who is continuously learning and growing through dialogue with others. He advises others to focus on their interests and remain grounded in theory and collective community advancement.

When asked about his definition of success for The Vic Mensa Show, Mensa explains that it's not about numerical benchmarks, but rather consistency and longevity. He believes that if they continue to execute at the highest creative level and sustain their work over time, long-term impact and business equity will follow naturally. Overall, Mensa's journey as an artist and entrepreneur is an inspiring example of staying true to one's beliefs and using one's platform to make a meaningful impact.

His dedication to owning his IP and building sustainable equity while staying grounded in theory and community advancement serves as a valuable lesson for aspiring entrepreneurs and creators.