Roxanne Shante Net Worth: The Hip-Hop Haul of the Rapper

Lolita Shante Gooden, born November 9, 1969, is an American rapper best known by her stage name Roxanne Shante. She rose to fame in 1984 during the Roxanne Wars, a series of hip-hop rivalries, and was a key member of the influential group Juice Crew. Her impactful early career made her a pioneering figure in hip-hop.

The 2017 film Roxanne Roxanne dramatizes her life, highlighting her struggles and success in a male-dominated industry and cementing her legacy in rap history.

Roxanne Shante Net Worth

Roxanne Shanté has a net worth of $500 thousand. Emerging from the Queensbridge Houses in Queens, New York, she became a pioneering female rapper in the early 1980s. At just 14 years old, she recorded “Roxanne’s Revenge” (1984), a response to UTFO’s “Roxanne, Roxanne,” sparking the famous “Roxanne Wars” that shaped early hip-hop culture.

Known for her freestyle and battle rap skills, she released singles like “Have a Nice Day,” “Queen of Rox,” and “Brothers Ain’t Shit.” Shanté influenced female representation in hip-hop and later focused on education and mentoring young artists after stepping back in the early 1990s.

Early life

Shante was born November 9, 1969, in Queens, New York. In 1984, she met Mr. Magic and Marley Marl near the Queensbridge housing project. They discussed U.T.F.O., who missed a concert appearance. Though their single “Hanging Out” flopped, the B-side “Roxanne, Roxanne” became a hit.

As a Juice Crew member, Shante was hired to reply, posing as the Roxanne character. Marley Marl produced “Roxanne’s Revenge“, which launched Shante, then 14, into fame. The Roxanne Wars followed, and she began touring with Marley Marl.

Career

Shante was called the “Queen of Rap” by The New York Times and is recognized as a hip-hop pioneer. The Sunday Times credited her with popularizing diss tracks. Billboard editor Natalie Weiner praised her “male-shaming diss track” as hip-hop’s first recorded beef, calling her “rap’s first female star.”

Consequence described her as a mentor and early female empowerment advocate. In 1989, The Christian Science Monitor noted that Roxanne Shante, Salt-N-Pepa, and MC Lyte paved the way for future female hip hop artists.

Personal life

A dramatized biopic about Shante‘s life, Roxanne Roxanne, premiered at the 2017 Sundance Film Festival. It earned critical acclaim, with lead actress Chanté Adams winning Best Breakout Performance for portraying Shante.

The film was co-produced by Forest Whitaker and Pharrell Williams, and was written and directed by Michael Larnell. It was acquired by Neon for general release later in 2017. The film highlights Shante’s early rise in hip-hop and her lasting impact as a female rap icon.

Does Roxanne Shante have a degree?

Roxanne Shante never earned a degree and is unlicensed by New York State officials to practice psychology or similar disciplines.

Conclusion

Roxanne Shante’s journey in the music industry illustrates the potential for success in the world of hip-hop, particularly for women. Her estimated net worth of $500 thousand reflects her contributions to music and her enduring influence in the rap community.

FAQs about Roxanne Shante Net Worth

What are some of Roxanne Shante’s notable songs or albums?
Aside from “Roxanne’s Revenge,” she is known for her albums “Bad Sister” and “The Bitch Is Back.”
Did Roxanne Shante receive any awards or recognitions for her music?
While specific awards are not listed, she is widely recognized as a pioneer in female hip-hop.
What was the impact of the Roxanne Wars on her career?
The Roxanne Wars significantly increased her visibility and influence in the rap community.
Has Roxanne Shante been involved in any philanthropic work?
She runs a nonprofit organization with her husband, focusing on helping inner-city youth.
What was the significance of the biopic “Roxanne Roxanne”?
The biopic “Roxanne Roxanne” portrayed her life story, highlighting her struggles and successes, and contributing to her legacy in hip-hop.