Urban One's New Platform iOne Digital Launches CASSIUS for Urban Millenials

iOne Digital (formerly Interactive One) celebrated the launch of its new brand CASSIUS at hotspot Kola House. Over 250 key influencers in fashion, entertainment, business and media converged at The Kola House to preview the buzzworthy new digital publication.

Upon arrival, guests were treated to a sensory overload as they viewed lush images while enjoying complimentary hors d' ouvres and cocktails provided by an open bar. Key influencers were also invited to share their most "unapologetic" moments via the CASSIUS "Unapologetic" photobooth. As the event commenced, iOne Digital and One Solutions President Detavio Samuels welcomed attendees and introduced CASSIUS creator, Kierna Mayo, SVP of Content and Brands for the digital platform, who toasted the future of creative journalism. Following the toast, a death of the "culture vulture" commenced via the beating of a pinata symbolizing that CASSIUS will be the destination for "unapologetic" cultural critique. The nights' festivities culminated with performances by Starz hit series "Power" star/recording artist, Rotimi, and Def Jam Recording Artist, Dave East. Music was provided throughout the evening by Chase B and DJ Boof.

Additional VIPs in attendance included: Marc Lamont Hill, Yandy Smith, Memsor Kamarake, Claire Sulmers, Candi Carter, Margeaux Watson, Lisa Bonner, and Juliette Jones.

The definitive digital destination for urban millennials, CASSIUS provides bold editorial that cuts through today’s headlines with stories and critical commentary that directly addresses the global impact of Black culture. Each month, CASSIUS will create original covers underscoring their unique point of view on themes such as power, identity and race. Video content will accompany each cover.

This month's cover is "The First Supper," a graphic illustration featuring 30 of the most talked about, controversial figures in pop culture and American history. For more information, visit CassiusLife.com.

(Urban One, Inc. was founded as Radio One by Cathy Hughes.)
Photos: Terrence Jennings, Bernard Smalls, and Pete Monsato 

"The First Supper," a graphic illustration featuring 30 of the most talked about, controversial figures in pop culture and American history, is divided into four covers featuring distinct groups of 'Unapologetics'—cultural disruptors—as they are known in the CASSIUS world. The series features critical essays penned by CASSIUS top editors and on video, extended conversation about the covers' ultimate message and the sheer power of its many subjects.


The June cover is in keeping with CASSIUS' mission to cut through today's headlines with stories and critical commentary that are relevant to millennials and directly address the global impact of Black culture. Each month, CASSIUS will create original covers underscoring their unique point of view on themes such as power, identity and race. Video content will accompany each cover.

"This month, we wanted to nod to 'The Unapologetics' of then and now," says CASSIUS creator Kierna Mayo, SVP, Content and Brands at iONE Digital. "We determined that people throughout time who change the world and never apologize for it, fall into fascinating sub-categories worthy of exploration. Deciding which 'disciples' should have a seat at the 'First Supper' table was hotly debated in our office. The truth is, the world is filled with 'Unapologetics'—fearless individuals who push us to think differently—and for everyone depicted, there was also the case for someone else. We hope our audience has the same endless discussion we did. Who really moves culture forward?"

At a time when mainstream media is dominated by political theater and extreme narratives, CASSIUS provides readers with a rare lens that positions Black culture as central to the world's key issues.

The June cover art was illustrated by Mark Hammermeister.