Da Brat, an iconic name in hip hop, is a trailblazer whose career has spanned decades.
From breaking barriers as the first female solo rapper to go platinum to becoming a well known TV personality, Da Brat journey has been nothing short of impressive.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into Da Brat’s real name, her biography, net worth, family life, and much more. Let’s take a closer look at the woman behind the persona, Shawntae Harris Dupart.
Da Brat’s Real Name: The Woman Behind the Stage Name
Da Brat, known for her groundbreaking music and larger-than-life personality, was born Shawntae Harris on April 14, 1974, in Chicago, Illinois.
The name “Da Brat” was a stage name she adopted early in her career, representing her brash, confident, and fun persona.
Interestingly, “Brat” was short for “Bratty,” a nickname from her early childhood. She chose it to showcase her rebellious and bold side, which resonated with her audience.
Why “Harris”?
Many may wonder why Da Brat’s last name is Harris instead of her famous stage name. Her father, David Ray McCoy, and her mother, Beverly Calloway, gave her the surname Harris at birth.
The decision to adopt “Da Brat” was part of her artistic reinvention as she transitioned from a young aspiring rapper to a global star.
Da Brat Biography: From Humble Beginnings to Global Fame
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Da Brat Full Name | Shawntae Harris-Dupart |
| Da Brat Stage Name | Da Brat |
| Da Brat Date of Birth | April 14, 1974 |
| Da Brat Place of Birth | Chicago, Illinois |
| Da Brat Occupation | Rapper, Actress, Radio Show Host |
| Da Brat Genres | Hip-Hop, Rap |
| Da Brat Years Active | 1992–present |
| Da Brat Awards | 3 Billboard Awards, 2 Grammy Nominations |
Born in Chicago, Illinois, Shawntae Harris grew up in a family where music was a significant influence.
Her mother, Beverly Calloway, was supportive of her creative pursuits, while her father, David Ray McCoy, had his own share of struggles.
Shawntae was raised with her half-sister, LisaRaye McCoy, who later became a renowned actress. The sisters have often spoken about their close relationship, despite the challenges that came with their differing career paths.
Early Years and Music Beginnings
Growing up in Chicago, Da Brat was exposed to the vibrant urban culture that shaped her musical tastes.
Her love for hip-hop started at a young age, and she quickly became influenced by hip-hop legends like Salt-N-Pepa and MC Lyte.
In the early ’90s, she joined the ranks of aspiring artists in Chicago’s underground rap scene, performing in local clubs and honing her skills.
The Breakthrough: Funkdafied (1994)
Da Brat’s big break came in 1994, when she signed with So So Def Recordings, founded by Jermaine Dupri.
That same year, she released her debut album, Funkdafied, which went platinum making Da Brat the first female solo rapper to achieve this milestone.
The album produced hit singles like “Funkdafied” and “Give It 2 You,” which helped her make an indelible mark on the music industry.
Notable Collaborations:
- Mariah Carey: Da Brat’s collaboration with Mariah Carey on the hit single “I’ll Be There” expanded her reach into mainstream pop.
- Missy Elliott: She also worked with Missy Elliott, a fellow hip-hop icon, on several tracks that showcased her versatility and lyrical prowess.
- Bow Wow: As a mentor on The Rap Game, Da Brat continued to influence the next generation of artists, including Bow Wow, who credits her as a significant inspiration.
Da Brat Net Worth: How Much is She Worth Today?
As of 2024, Da Brat’s net worth is estimated to be around $7 million. Her wealth comes from multiple sources, including her music career, television appearances, and business ventures.
Sources of Income
- Music: Da Brat has sold millions of albums worldwide, with her platinum-certified debut album being a major revenue generator. Her contributions to hip-hop and rap have earned her significant royalties from music sales.
- Television: Da Brat has appeared in several notable TV shows, including The Surreal Life, Celebrity Fit Club, and The Rap Game. As a reality TV star, she has significantly increased her visibility and earning potential.
- Radio: She co-hosts the popular Rickey Smiley Morning Show, where she earns a salary for her engaging on-air personality.
- Endorsements and Collaborations: Da Brat also enjoys endorsement deals, further boosting her income.
Net Worth Growth (2020–2024)
Here’s a breakdown of Da Brat’s estimated net worth over the last five years:
| Year | Estimated Net Worth |
|---|---|
| Da Brat 2020 | $3 million |
| Da Brat 2021 | $4 million |
| Da Brat 2022 | $5 million |
| Da Brat 2023 | $6 million |
| Da Brat 2024 | $7 million |
Investments and Business Ventures
In addition to her work in music and TV, Da Brat’s entrepreneurial ventures have helped grow her wealth. She also benefits from brand collaborations, sponsorships, and possible investments in fashion or other industries.
Da Brat’s Family: Who Are the Important People in Her Life?
Da Brat comes from a close knit family, with her half-sister, LisaRaye McCoy, being one of the most prominent members of her family.
While Da Brat has always kept her personal life relatively private, her family has played an important role in shaping her public persona and career.
Immediate Family Members
- Father: David Ray McCoy Da Brat’s father was largely absent during her childhood, and she often expressed a difficult relationship with him. Still, he remains a part of her life.
- Mother: Beverly Calloway Her mother, who has been supportive of her career, has always been a positive influence in Da Brat’s life.
- Half-Sister: LisaRaye McCoy Actress LisaRaye McCoy has made her own mark in the entertainment industry, and the sisters have a strong, supportive relationship.
Marriage and Personal Life
On February 22, 2022, Da Brat married Jesseca Dupart, a successful entrepreneur known for her hair care brand, Kaleidoscope Hair Products.
The couple’s relationship has been highly publicized, and they both share a deep love for each other, often posting about their lives together on social media.
In 2023, Da Brat and Jesseca welcomed their first child, a son, marking a significant milestone in Da Brat’s life. Their family, although new, has already become a focal point of her personal narrative.
More Interesting Facts About Da Brat
Da Brat’s Influence on Pop Culture
Da Brat was a trailblazer for women in hip-hop. In an era dominated by male rappers, she stood out as one of the few successful female artists.
Her success in the early ’90s opened doors for future generations of female rappers, including Nicki Minaj, Cardi B, and Megan Thee Stallion.
Legal Challenges and Comeback
Throughout her career, Da Brat has faced her share of legal challenges. In 2007, she was sentenced to three years in prison after a physical altercation at a nightclub.
Despite this setback, she made a strong comeback, showing her resilience. Her journey through personal and professional challenges only adds to her allure as a hip-hop icon.
TV Appearances and Films
Da Brat has made numerous appearances on television and film. Some of her more notable TV appearances include:
- The Surreal Life: A reality TV show that put celebrities in a house together, where Da Brat’s humor and charm stood out.
- Celebrity Fit Club: A reality show that focused on weight loss, where Da Brat shared her fitness journey.
- The Rap Game: As a mentor to aspiring young rappers, Da Brat showcased her leadership and industry knowledge.
She also appeared in films like Kazaam (1996) and Glitter (2001), alongside Mariah Carey.
Frequenlty Asked Questions
What is Da Brat Real Name
Da Brat’s real name is Shawntae Harris.
What is Da Brat Net Worth 2024
As of 2024, Da Brat’s net worth is estimated to be $7 million.
Why Is Da Brat Last Name Harris
Da Brat’s last name is Harris because it is her birth surname, given by her parents, David Ray McCoy and Beverly Calloway.
What Is Da Brat Net Worth
Da Brat’s net worth is $7 million in 2024, earned through her music, TV, and business ventures.
What is Da Brat’s Net Worth
Da Brat’s net worth has grown steadily, with $7 million in 2024, fueled by her music career and TV appearances.
Conclusion
From breaking barriers as the first female solo rapper to go platinum to becoming a mentor on The Rap Game and a beloved personality on TV, Da Brat’s career continues to flourish.
Her resilience, talent, and impact on the hip-hop scene have solidified her place as one of the greatest rap icons of all time.
With her recent marriage and the birth of her son, Da Brat is carving out new chapters in both her personal and professional life. As she continues to inspire new generations of artists, we can only expect her influence to grow.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just learning about her incredible journey, Da Brat’s story is one of dedication, overcoming adversity, and leaving a lasting legacy in the music industry.