While the rap industry may be known as male dominated, behind the scene there are women not just holding down the spot but also working to move the culture in a positive direction. Rachel Wims is a woman in the business who is quietly making her work.
Based in Los Angeles, Wims’ impressive resume starts with her current executive position on Bilal “Bizzy” Joseph’s team, which has been involved with producing tours and events for artists including Travis Scott and Dougie F. In addition to her production efforts, Wims recently started up Molly Tan, an artist management and development company.
Wims also heads the Victim Rights Foundation, a non profit her father founded 20 years ago that supports victims of violent crimes.
Raised in Washington D.C., Wims music industry entry began with a volunteer role organizing a hip hop conference at her alma mater, the University of Maryland. Her efforts led to an organizational role with Washington D.C’s Trillecto Music Festival.
We spoke with Wims about working in the music industry, hew newly-founded agency and of course fashion. Check out our exchange below.
Snobette: The entertainment industry is notoriously tough on women. Do you see yourself working in the business long term?
Rachel: “Yes, I plan to work in the entertainment business long term. I feel like I eat, breathe, and sleep music and management is just second nature to me. My mother always told me that the best job to have is one that doesn’t feel like work. I found that happiness here.
“I just opened Molly Tan, my own management and artist development firm where I’m the president and CEO. I want to keep creating memories and moments that last a lifetime, ones that can connect people. I think that’s the best part about music is it’s ability to connect people. It doesn’t matter who you are, where you are, or what you do, we can all be connected by the commonality of liking the same artist, or the same music.”
Snobette: With the launch of your agency, Molly Tan, what do you want to create/ provide?
Rachel: “I want Molly Tan to be a company that builds our clients to their full potential. As I said earlier, I want to keep making experiences and creating memories. I hope to help my clients continue to create dope, memorable and life changing experiences to go along with their craft.
“One of the best feelings about going on tour is seeing all the different fans across the globe coming together in good spirits to have a great time. In today’s world where we are divided in so many ways, I feel so honored to be apart of creating a space, or moment where people from all divisions can put aside their differences for that one time.
“I want Molly Tan to be a company that breaks barriers. Molly Tan is open to all forms of entertainment; in fact, we have a celebrity chef on our roster that embodies our mission greatly. When you think about it, food also has the ability to connect individuals from all walks of life, as well as create unforgettable experiences. I want my work to provide everlasting effects.”
Snobette: What are the skills you have that have allowed you to thrive in the business?
Rachel: “I would say my best skill is persistence. I do not give up. I will beat any door down that stands in my way and even if I get turned down, I consistently come up with other ways to reach my goals or agendas.
“I work extremely hard and around the clock. Sometimes I get on my team’s nerves because I always ask for new assignments, even when there are none. And when that happens, I create my own assignments to do! It’s pretty funny looking back on this now; I think that’s another reason I decided to start Molly Tan. It was a way to keep business booming.”
Snobette: What are you feeling style-wise these days?
Rachel: “Right now I definitely love my Air Forces. They’re classic and just fit my everyday mood. If I’m not in my Air Forces, I’m in my Vans. For clothes I like to stick with the comfortable sweat suit or jeans paired with my favorite assortment of bodysuits and dad hats.
Snobette: What other sneaker silhouettes are on your wish list?
Rachel: “I’m obsessed with Nike and Travis Scott’s Air Force 1s, plus Nike and Comme des Garçons’ VaporMax and Adidas by Raf Simons [Ozweego] “Bunny” sneakers.
Snobette: Are there any labels that you’re really into lately?
Rachel: “I really love Off-White. I like how streetwear is really starting to be considered high fashion. Brands like Off-White, Joyrich, Kith, Balenciaga, and Nike are where it’s at for me right now. However, I can switch it up and go glam. Personally, I love a good sneaker, the occasional bootie and a comfortable heel. My favorite shoe designer has to be Stuart Weitzman and for more stylish apparel I like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Alexander Wang, and Naked Wardrobe. There are so many designers that fit my aura; it’s hard to choose sometimes!”
