I Love Hip Hop Blog -
Interviewed by: La Tasha K. Mason aka @Tash1216 via http://gumbumper.com
As an underground female artist, she packs a big bang with her beauty, class, style and rap skills. Not only does she have a successful solo career, this 2010 BET Awards Best Female Hip Hop Artist Nominee, is part of the R&B/Hip Hop group, Peach Candy, with songstress, reality star (Real Housewives of Atlanta) and Grammy Award winning songwriter, Kandi Burruss.
If you want tips on how to be a BOSS CHICK, reading this feature is a great start.
When did you first fall in love with Hip Hop?
I would have to say when I saw Salt-n-Pepa’s, “Push It,” video. I wanted to be them.
Where did it all begin, how did you become Rasheeda, The GA Peach?
Well, I was born Rasheeda, but me becoming a solo artist really started in 1999.
Do you do anything behind the scenes that most people don’t know about?
LOL… I can throw down in the kitchen and when I have time, I love to do my own nails.
Having been in the industry for so long, you’re no stranger to people’s negativity. How do you deal with that?
It doesn’t really bother me. A lot of the negativity comes from people who DO NOT know me. But I’ve come to realize that when people talk you are doing something right. You just gotta stay focused and keep on pushing.
Which 3 female rappers have had the biggest influence on you?
Salt & Pepa, Lauren Hill & LiL Kim.
You’re often described as being one of the most down to earth rappers out. After all of your success, how do you continue to remain so level headed?
Awww… well why wouldn’t I be? I’m just a woman who is trying to accomplish her goals, and you can’t sh*t on people during your journey. You treat people like you want to be treated. I’m really appreciative and blessed to be able to do what I do, and I refuse to take advantage of that. Things can be easily taken from you
What label are you on?
DLO Entertainment
Do you produce and write your own material?
I don’t produce beats but I write my own music.
Do you think you’re a freestyle rapper or more of a pad & pen type of rapper?
I’m more of a pad & pen rapper, but I will freestyle and have fun with it.
Do you feel like you’re considered more underground than commercial and why? Why?
I’m definitely underground because I’m not mainstream and that’s pretty obvious. I’m proud of that. My underground fan base, it’s organic. They have grown with me. I haven’t been commercially forced down people’s throat; my underground following is because people have discovered my music and rock with it. Don’t get me wrong, being a mainstream artist is a great thing but just because you’re not mainstream doesn’t mean you’re not successful.
Which male or female rappers are you compared to most?
None really…Well, I have had people tell me that other artists sound like me…
Do you like the comparison?
Ummmmmm…. Let just say I’m flattered!
Tell us about your relationships (both professional and personal) with Kandi Burruss and Toya Carter.
We are homegirls!! We can work together and have fun; we support each other’s careers. We are all BOSSCHICKS!!
What ever happened with the album you did with Kandi Burruss?
Timing has just been crazy. We both have a lot going on but look to drop some PeachCandy in the near future!
How do you juggle your career with your family, social and romantic life?
You just have to get a format down that works for you. That goes for any working woman with kids and a demanding job, you just have to juggle. I have a great support system.
As the incredible rapper that you are, do you ever get frustrated when you see singers with far less talent outperforming you on the charts?
No, because everyone’s timing is different and things happen the way they are suppose to. I stopped feeling like that a long time ago because talent wasn’t always the main factor. It’s really about who is the main focus…who has the bigger budget.
Which artists or rappers, both past and present, can we expect to find on your iPod?
Al Green, Biggie, Jayz & Kanye, Amy Winehouse, Sade, Drake, Wayne, Michael Jackson, Marvin Gaye, Beyonce, Rick Ross and more!!!
You’re very beautiful whereas most female rappers have sort of a hard look to them. Does that present a problem for you when it comes to how you would like to be perceived as a rapper?
Not at all.
What was the story behind the song “You Ugly”?
That was actually Kandi’s song, and she had a open verse on it and asked me to hop on it. But the concept was funny & relatable LMAO!!!!
What do you think about hip-hop beef as it has recently flowed over into the female rap world?
It’s a part of the business; it’s really a part of hip hop. I just think when you start it, be prepared for anything; don’t bring a butter knife to a sword fight.
Is there anyone you would love to work with?
Kanye West & Andre 3000
Would you be open to collaborating with Nicki Minaj in the future?
Sure.
What are your tour plans in general, if any?
I’m all over the place doing dates not on a specific tour, but I have a lot of dates. I’m excited about going to Istanbul, Turkey this month.
How do you, Rasheeda, want to be remembered as an artist in 10 years?
(I see myself) As a woman who made women feel powerful and confident with her music. The artist who told it like it was and keep it hood but classy. I want to be remembered as a motivator!
Check out: “I’m Bossy” Rasheeda’s gear & accessories
Follow Rasheeda on Twitter
Rasheeda’s Official YouTube Channel
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