From the South to the World.

EMERGENT & CO. bridges the gap between emerging creatives and global audiences.

Our mission is to provide artists with the essential space, community, and resources they need to flourish and expand their creative horizons.

Through strategic partnerships with international institutions, brands, and organizations, we amplify the voices of talented creators from the South and other historically underrepresented communities.

Our Team

  • CEO & Co-Founder

    Taylor “Tay Powers” Barner is an international DJ, producer, music executive, and serial entrepreneur with over a decade of experience at the intersection of culture, technology, and impact.

    Before becoming Head of Music for Sean Parker’s social platform Airtime, she collaborated with leading artists in pop, hip hop, and R&B, and contributed to several award-winning films. She also served with Notes for Notes, Inc., building state-of-the-art recording studios for youth across the country.

    Now, as the Founder and CEO of Emergent & Co., Tay leverages her deep industry knowledge and passion for creative equity to lead a dynamic ecosystem that uplifts emerging talent and transforms communities.

  • Will York III is a seasoned business development leader with a track record of helping Fortune 500 companies transition toward clean and sustainable energy solutions. He is also a passionate entrepreneur and community advocate.

    Will co-founded Prauper Studios, a creative agency and design studio and in 2020, launched BLK Fathers, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting men of color through the journey of fatherhood.

    As a founding partner and COO of Emergent & Co., Will brings a deep commitment to community empowerment, creative entrepreneurship, and building sustainable ecosystems where emerging talent can thrive.

  • Technical Director

  • Creative Lead & Graphic Designer

  • Videography & Content Lead