Most people seem to forget that Shawntae Harris, better known as ‘Da Brat’, was the first female solo rapper to have a platinum-selling album. Da Brat seemed to break into the scene out of no where after winning a YO! MTV Raps contest which soon led to her introduction to super producer Jermaine Dupri. Two years later she released her debut album Funkdafied on Dupri’s So So def label selling one million copies, and the hip-hop community affectionately labeled her, ‘The female Snoop Dogg’. Her laid back way of rhyming and change of flow rivaled many other artist at that time and made her a force to be reckon with. Brat’s signature braids and tom boy dress made her a female rapper who indefinitely created her own lane.
Da Brat released her second album, Anuthatantrum in 1996, and consequently she became rap’s favorite remix emcee. Her spontaneous behaviour and easy going personality blended well creatively with various artists. Brat’s party type videos brought fun to rap as she shared scenes with other legends in hip-hop before rap ego’s seemed to be a factor. She appeared on several multi-platinum selling singles with huge stars such as Mariah Carey, Missy Elliot, The Notorious B.I.G., Brandy, Destiny’s Child, Ludacris and Lil Kim. Her lyrics seem to bounce over the hottest beats and she performed with a confidence that existed before the word ‘swag’ was invented.
Rumor has it, during this time, Da Brat ghost wrote for several artist under the So So Def umbrella. Da Brat’s colorful demeanor scored her numerous guest spots on television and in several successful films. Her third album, Unrestricted dropped in 2000, and Brat continued to tour the world and record remixes. She released her 4th album Limelite, Luv & Niteclubz, and showcased her private life on Vh1’s ‘The Surreal Life’.
Brat also appeared on VH1’s ‘Celebrity Fit Club’ before serving 21 months in prison for reckless conduct and left hip-hop in dire need of another strong female voice. Following her release in 2011, Brat leaked a few freestyles that showcased she had not lost a step. With the promise of new material, her fans wait patiently for Brat and Jermaine Dupri to create more hits together. Da Brat’s catalogue boasts multiple songs that are timeless. Her contribution to hip-hop remains a legacy that teaches women they can rock the mic without compromising their own beliefs. They can leave their mark simply by being themselves.
–Courtney Brown