Podcast Summary: The Breakfast Club – THROWBACK: Angie Stone On Being A Rap Pioneer, History of The Sequence, Coming 'Full Circle' + More

Episode Information

• Title: THROWBACK: Angie Stone On Being A Rap Pioneer, History of The Sequence, Coming 'Full Circle' + More
• Host: DJ Envy, Jess Hilarious, Charlamagne Tha God
• Release Date: March 3, 2025

Introduction to Angie Stone and Her Legacy in Hip Hop

The episode kicks off with DJ Envy welcoming listeners and introducing Angie Stone, a trailblazer from Columbia, South Carolina. Charlamagne Tha God delves into Angie’s pivotal role in hip hop history, highlighting her group The Sequence as the first female rap group to go gold.

Notable Quote:

• Charlamagne Tha God [02:31]: "I don't think people realize that Angie's one of the pioneers of rap. The Sequence, your first female group to go gold."

The Sequence’s Breakthrough and Influence

Angie Stone recounts how The Sequence made history with their original rap record, challenging the male-dominated hip hop scene. She discusses the creation of their hit song "Funk You Up" and its lasting impact on the genre.

Notable Quotes:

• Angie Stone [02:42]: "We were the first female group, period, to do an original rap record, to do a rap record that garnered the world."
• Angie Stone [04:02]: "Dr. Dre did keep your heads ringing. That was a direct rip from 'Funk You Up'."

Navigating Industry Challenges and Recognition

The conversation shifts to the challenges The Sequence faced in gaining recognition. Angie explains the nuances between sampling and interpolation, addressing frustrations over artists like Bruno Mars and Dr. Dre utilizing their music without proper acknowledgment.

Notable Quotes:

• Angie Stone [03:22]: "You never thought of suing?"
• Angie Stone [04:33]: "I think it's wrong for them to try to overlook us. Cause we're from South Carolina."

Transition from Hip Hop to R&B and Soul

Angie discusses her strategic transition from hip hop to R&B, emphasizing the importance of reinvention. She shares insights on maintaining relevance while staying true to her roots.

Notable Quotes:

• Angie Stone [11:04]: "I learned to be a chameleon. I wanted to change with the times."
• Angie Stone [12:03]: "But you can't stray too far away from who you are."

Personal Life: Relationships and Motherhood

The hosts explore Angie’s personal life, including her relationships and role as a mother. Angie opens up about her marriage influenced by cultural expectations, her relationship with DeAngelo, and the challenges of co-parenting in the public eye.

Notable Quotes:

• Angie Stone [24:19]: "When you put two people together, especially in the entertainment industry, it can complicate things."
• Angie Stone [31:29]: "I was an only child, so my mom and dad was gonna wring my neck if I didn't [get married]."

Reality TV Experiences and Industry Manipulation

Angie shares her experiences with reality television, particularly her role in "R&B Divas." She discusses the pressures and manipulations within the industry, emphasizing her commitment to authenticity and her eventual decision to walk away from toxic environments.

Notable Quotes:

• Angie Stone [36:12]: "My job was just to try to smooth it over."
• Angie Stone [38:35]: "I walked off because once they started to manipulate... I can't let you guys destroy my brand."

Upcoming Projects: 'Full Circle' Album and Biopic

The discussion turns to Angie’s latest endeavors, including her new album titled "Full Circle" and an upcoming biopic. She explains the significance of the album’s title as a reflection of her personal and professional journey.

Notable Quotes:

• Angie Stone [39:47]: "Full Circle is where I've come full circle. I know who I am. I know whose I am."
• Angie Stone [44:19]: "I've worked with almost every one of the artists of our generation."

Health Struggles and Personal Growth

Angie reveals her battle with diabetes, attributing it to a chemical spill and the side effects of prednisone. She discusses how these health challenges have shaped her resilience and her commitment to making meaningful music.

Notable Quotes:

• Angie Stone [42:31]: "I'm a diabetic... dealing with that. I have a chemical spill at Presbyterian Hospital when I was 26."
• Angie Stone [41:03]: "I was just getting back to myself. It's time to just make a life, enjoy this thing again."

Advice to the Musical Generation and Maintaining Purpose

Concluding the conversation, Angie offers heartfelt advice to emerging artists. She stresses the importance of staying true to one’s purpose and using their platform to convey positive and meaningful messages.

Notable Quotes:

• Angie Stone [35:41]: "You have to know your purpose... creating music that meets the mind of people that it touches."
• DJ Envy [18:58]: "Choose to be bold, to try something new. Choose to reinvent yourself."

Closing Remarks

The hosts express their admiration for Angie’s journey and contributions to music. Angie emphasizes the significance of legacy and encourages listeners to respect the foundational work done by pioneering artists in hip hop.

Notable Quotes:

• Charlamagne Tha God [37:35]: "When I think of like Sugar Hill Gang, I'm like, there's no reason for anybody to ever mention Sugar Hill Records and not mention The Sequence."
• Angie Stone [34:50]: "I had to make sure that I didn't get consumed with everything that everybody else worries about."

Conclusion

This episode of The Breakfast Club provides an in-depth look into Angie Stone’s influential role in the evolution of hip hop and R&B. From breaking barriers with The Sequence to navigating personal and professional challenges, Angie’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and unwavering commitment to her art. Her insights offer valuable lessons for both new and established artists striving to leave their mark on the music industry.