UnSung Season 16 Episode 2 Roxanne Shante

UnSung is back with its sixteenth season, and in episode 2, we take a deep look into the life and career of one of the finest female rappers of all time, Roxanne Shante.

Roxanne Shante was just 14 years old when she stormed onto the rap scene with her debut single "Roxanne's Revenge" in 1984. This single was an answer to UTFO's song "Roxanne, Roxanne," in which they dissed a fictitious woman named Roxanne. Shante adopted the Roxanne persona and showed the world what she could do with her razor-sharp rhymes, spit with impeccable flows and a supreme lyrical ability beyond her years.

The episode traces Shante's early life growing up in Queensbridge, New York, a rough neighborhood where gang violence was rampant, and drugs were everywhere. Shante's father wasn't around, and her mother was in and out of prison, leaving her to fend for herself. Despite all the challenges, Shante had a deep love for music and constantly used it as an escape from her harsh reality.

The episode delves into Shante's early influences, from hip hop pioneers like Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five to blues legends like B.B. King and Etta James. Shante's love for the old-school style of hip hop set her apart from other rappers of her era; her lyrics were sharp, witty, and often laced with humor, but also contained a tinge of social commentary that bared her soul.

The episode goes on to show how Shante rose to prominence in the male-dominated rap industry of the 80s and 90s. She signed a deal with Cold Chillin' Records, where she went on to collaborate with legendary producers like Marley Marl and Biz Markie, producing hits like "Have a Nice Day" and "Go On Girl."

Shante's career wasn't without its controversies. Her feud with fellow Queensbridge rapper MC Shan spilled out into the public domain, with both artists taking potshots at each other through songs. Shante's relationship with the record label soured, and she found herself in legal battles with Cold Chillin' Records over unpaid royalties and rights to her music.

Despite all this, Shante continued to push the envelope and stayed true to herself. She became one of the first female MCs to earn a gold record with her album "Bad Sister" and continued to inspire young women across the globe with her music.

The episode shines a light on the struggles Shante faced post-music career, from battles with homelessness to raising children as a single mother. We see how a woman who had seen so much adversity in her life continued to fight on, and how her music continues to have a lasting impact on the world.

In conclusion, UnSung Season 16 Episode 2, Roxanne Shante, is an exciting and emotional journey that explores the life, career, and legacy of one of the most influential female rappers of all time. It's a must-watch for anyone who wants to know more about the history of hip hop and the struggles women faced in the male-dominated industry of yesteryear.