Podcast Summary: The Breakfast Club Featuring Roxanne Shante

Title: DONKEY: Roxanne Shante Speaks On Her Legacy, Friendship With Nas, Advice To Female Rappers + More
Host: DJ Envy, Jess Hilarious, Charlamagne Tha God
Guest: Roxanne Shante
Release Date: April 1, 2025
Duration: Approximately 43 minutes [02:20 – 45:31]

1. Introduction and Grammy Achievement

The episode kicks off with DJ Envy welcoming Roxanne Shante to The Breakfast Club. Roxanne expresses her gratitude and contentment upon receiving a lifetime Grammy Achievement Award.

Roxanne Shante [03:02]: "It shows perseverance. It shows patience... it's the slow burn that makes the incense smell good."

She reflects on the significance of the award, emphasizing that it honors her entire career rather than specific commercial successes.

Roxanne Shante [04:00]: "My Grammy represents the person that didn't sell millions of albums... It has a little more of a significance to me personally."

2. The Evolution of Hip Hop Recognition

Roxanne discusses the evolution of Grammy categories, particularly the introduction and subsequent removal of the hip hop category. Her advocacy alongside peers led to the reinstatement of the category, highlighting the industry's slow recognition of hip hop artists.

Roxanne Shante [03:53]: "They had to add it back in because we all boycotted when they took it out."

3. Reflections on Career and Industry Challenges

Roxanne shares candid insights into her experiences within the music industry, including struggles with record sales, royalties, and maintaining artistic integrity. She underscores the importance of staying true to oneself despite external pressures.

Roxanne Shante [05:56]: "I was never angry... I was willing to wait patiently until the universe said, here, you can have it."

4. Friendship and Collaboration with Nas

A significant portion of the discussion centers on Roxanne's friendship with fellow hip hop legend Nas. She portrays Nas as a brotherly figure whose dedication and talent she has long recognized and supported.

Roxanne Shante [29:24]: "With Nas, it's like watching my little brother grow up and be exactly what I knew he was gonna be."

Roxanne emphasizes the genuine bond they share, which transcends professional collaboration.

Roxanne Shante [29:08]: "It's genuine... I'm not going to tell you every time I tell my sisters or my brothers..."

5. Addressing Industry Inequities and Royalties

Roxanne does not shy away from discussing the inequities faced by artists, particularly in royalty distributions. She recounts personal experiences of not receiving royalties despite achieving platinum status, highlighting systemic issues within the industry.

Cool V [34:15]: "We find out later that all of these people are making money off our music."

Roxanne adds her perspective, balancing frustration with a sense of acceptance and resilience.

Roxanne Shante [35:12]: "I ain't crying about it now... We got things to do."

6. Legacy Projects and Film Adaptations

Roxanne delves into her legacy projects, including the portrayal of her life story in film. She speaks proudly of casting her daughter, Taji, to play her role, ensuring authenticity and a personal touch in depicting her journey.

Roxanne Shante [40:48]: "Anybody that wants to portray Roxanne Shante, they must use my daughter, or I don't get permission."

She discusses the delicate balance of representing her past without subjecting her daughter to the trauma Roxanne experienced.

Roxanne Shante [25:40]: "She was her first time being in a movie... I didn't want to have any strong abuse scenes."

7. Advice to Female Rappers

Towards the end of the interview, Roxanne offers heartfelt advice to female rappers navigating the modern music landscape. She acknowledges the increased control female artists now have over their careers and encourages them to embrace their individuality.

Roxanne Shante [36:55]: "Now they understand the business... They've taken more control. They say what they're going to do, what they're going to wear..."

Roxanne praises the new generation for their success and autonomy, expressing pride in their achievements.

Roxanne Shante [37:00]: "It's an honor for me to sit back and say... I started in the parks so that she's at the Palladium."

8. Personal Life and Family

The conversation also touches on Roxanne's personal life, particularly her relationship with her daughter, Taji. She expresses joy in witnessing Taji's foray into music and her decision to embody Roxanne's legacy in film.

Roxanne Shante [40:29]: "I love it... I can see how my face just lights up and brightens up when it comes to her."

Roxanne emphasizes the importance of family support and safeguarding her daughter's well-being within the industry.

Roxanne Shante [41:19]: "I'm coming... She feels like I hover over her too much with certain things, but it's the safety factor."

9. Honoring Biz Markie

Roxanne shares a poignant moment honoring her late friend, Biz Markie, at his funeral. She recounts fulfilling a promise they made as teenagers, which serves as a testament to their enduring bond.

Roxanne Shante [43:30]: "We did it... I was able to sleep at night."

This segment underscores the deep personal connections that have shaped her life and career.

10. Closing Remarks

The episode concludes with expressions of gratitude from both Roxanne and the hosts. Roxanne reiterates her commitment to preserving her legacy and supporting upcoming projects.

Roxanne Shante [45:30]: "Thank you so much."

Notable Quotes:

• Roxanne Shante [03:02]: "It shows perseverance. It shows patience... it's the slow burn that makes the incense smell good."

• Roxanne Shante [04:00]: "My Grammy represents the person that didn't sell millions of albums... It has a little more of a significance to me personally."

• Roxanne Shante [29:24]: "With Nas, it's like watching my little brother grow up and be exactly what I knew he was gonna be."

• Roxanne Shante [36:55]: "Now they understand the business... They've taken more control. They say what they're going to do, what they're going to wear..."

• Roxanne Shante [43:30]: "We did it... I was able to sleep at night."

Conclusion

In this emotionally charged and insightful episode, Roxanne Shante opens up about her illustrious career, personal relationships, particularly with Nas and Biz Markie, and her unwavering support for the next generation of female rappers. She addresses the challenges faced within the music industry, celebrates her achievements, and underscores the importance of legacy and family. Roxanne's candidness and heartfelt reflections provide listeners with a deeper understanding of her journey and enduring impact on hip hop.