In a partnership announced from New York City, in the United States, FLTBYS, the independent music and lifestyle company founded by Brooklyn rapper and entrepreneur Kota the Friend, will work with global music platform TIDAL to help independent musicians build sustainable businesses around their music.
A Model Built on Artist Ownership#
The partnership supports FLTBYS’ goal of helping artists keep creative ownership, form direct relationships with fans and earn revenue beyond traditional streaming and recording models. FLTBYS will draw on its experience in independent music, merchandise, touring and live events and pair it with TIDAL’s direct-to-fan commerce tools.
Company Background#
FLTBYS, also known as Flight Boys, was founded in 2008 while Kota attended Brooklyn High School of the Arts. It has grown into an artist-owned company whose work spans music, apparel, merchandise, live performances, artist collaborations and international events.
Kota has built an international following while retaining ownership of his music and developing several revenue streams outside the traditional major-label system.
“Independence has always meant more to me than releasing music on my own,” said Kota the Friend, founder of FLTBYS. “It’s about owning what you create, connecting directly with your fans and building something that lasts. Working with TIDAL gives us an opportunity to share what we’ve learned and help more artists build businesses around their music.”
FLTBYS plans to connect independent artists with resources, industry relationships and opportunities to build their own creative businesses.
TIDAL Tools and Fee Change#
The partnership will introduce FLTBYS’ artist community to TIDAL’s expanding direct-to-fan tools, including TIDAL Upload, which lets musicians share music and sell digital downloads and physical merchandise directly to fans.
In August 2026, TIDAL removed its 10% platform fee on eligible direct-to-fan music sales. Standard payment-processing fees still apply.
“We’re building tools that make it easier for artists to share their music, connect directly with listeners, and earn more from their work,” said Will Griggs of TIDAL. “Kota embodies that independent spirit, and we’re excited to support Flight Night and Local Art Dealer IRL as spaces where artists can come together, exchange ideas, and build what’s next.”
Two New York City Events in December#
FLTBYS will hold two events in New York City on December 10 and 11, 2026:
- December 10: Local Art Dealer IRL brings together independent musicians, entrepreneurs and music industry professionals for networking and conversations about ownership, direct-to-fan opportunities and building sustainable creative businesses.
- December 11: Flight Night NYC returns to SOB’s in Manhattan, headlined by Kota the Friend alongside producer and DJ Statik Selektah and independent hip-hop performers.
The events are part of FLTBYS’ broader effort to create platforms where independent musicians can connect, collaborate and grow their careers.
