GOTTA RESPECT MY SH*T | She Real

INTERVIEW TERRELL “REALIFE”BLACK PHOTOGRAPHY MYCHAL WATTS AND EDITED BY DELAROSA JR.

She Real, hailing from Harlem, New York, has been deeply connected to Hip Hop culture since her earliest memories. Her name reflects her commitment to authenticity, and her journey into music began with her father's influence, further shaped by a personal tragedy that turned music into a source of healing. She Real has transformed her pain into powerful art, navigating the challenges of the Hip Hop industry—especially as a woman—by staying true to her voice and message. With accomplishments that include major platforms and international performances, she continues to break barriers and inspire others, particularly women, to turn their struggles into something positive. Her upcoming ninth album, "I Don’t Rap About My Pu$$y," set for release on September 3rd, is a testament to her growth and unwavering dedication to her craft.

VALIDATED: A Los Angeles, California resident but Harlem, New York native, what’s your earliest memory of Hip Hop culture?

SHE REAL: One of my earliest memories is trying to dress like Kriss Kross back in '92. The only rap song that played in my home was "Treat 'Em Right" by Chubb Rock; beyond that, Hip Hop was rarely heard. My stepmother believed many records had themes that weren’t suitable for someone my age, and she wasn’t entirely wrong. Instead, my soundtrack was Funk, Soul, and R&B. I discovered Hip Hop through the streets of Harlem, from my cousins, aunts, uncles, and friends at school.

Without a TV in my room and limited freedom to go outside, I was often kept away from family. My radio became my closest companion. In the mid to late '90s, Hot 97 was a lifeline for any New Yorker, and I would record music off the Angie Martinez show using my boombox to a cassette tape. The music from the streets outside my childhood apartment would blast well into the wee hours of the morning. The block was alive all night with everything from fights and games to shit talkin', and I loved it all. Falling asleep to the sounds of New York is one of my most vivid memories of Hip Hop.

VALIDATED: Whats the story behind your rap name, “She Real”?

SHE REAL: My real name is Cherelle. 

VALIDATED: What role did your father play early on in sparking your love for music?

SHE REAL: My father was a multi-talented musician, a songwriter, producer, and mastering engineer. Our home was a hub of creativity, with him constantly bringing new music from work, and dedicating time to his own projects in our living room seated at his home recording studio. He often encouraged me to create my own music, especially since I knew every song on the radio.

During my childhood, my father raised me as a single parent. For years, it was just the two of us. I remember waking in the middle of the night to find him seated on the floor, listening to music through headphones beside his huge stereo system. He’d invite me to listen and then enthusiastically point out each instrument in the track or share his favorite parts and why he loved them. His extensive vinyl collection was off-limits to me, but he played records frequently on his days off, with Bobby Brown's "Don't Be Cruel" album being a particular favorite. I was equally obsessed, and he would lift me up and dance with me to many of the tracks on that album.

He took every opportunity to share his passion for music with me, teaching me about the artists and the details on album covers and CD booklets. His love for music was infectious, and since I admired him so much, it was impossible not to fall in love with it too. My father’s influence led me to write my first rhyme at age nine, and when he learned I wanted to be a rapper at nineteen, he fully supported me. Now, as I release my ninth album, I know it’s all thanks to the seed he planted.

He always seemed to foresee my future, offering advice on what to do or not do, insisting I would be on TV one day. As a young child, I didn’t understand, as I wasn’t even thinking about becoming an entertainer. Yet, it feels as if he always knew. I was born to be a star.

VALIDATED: You’ve shared that a traumatic experience led you to find solace in music. How did music help you during that difficult time, and how did it shape your decision to pursue it as a career?

SHE REAL: I was raped by my ex-boyfriend when I was 19 years old. I went to his apartment in Harlem to retrieve the rest of my things as I insisted we shouldn't be together anymore. He disagreed, telling me he did not want to break up. He tried to initiate sex, which I wasn't even remotely interested in at that moment. We fought. Everything on the nightstand was knocked to the floor. The mattress was separated from the box spring. I tried everything I could to get him off of me; however, once he pinned me down there was nothing I could do. I never felt so powerless in my life. I must have been in shock because I just lad there after he was done. Eventually, I had to go to work. I carried on as if it were a regular day, which was impossible, because we also worked together at a movie theater in Times Square.

I snapped really. Broke down completely. Up until the age of 19, I never smoked or had a real drink in my life. I dreamt of playing professional basketball and refused to ruin my NCAA eligibility. After the assault, I began drinking every day, all day, and eventually got fired from work. I skipped shifts to avoid seeing him. I spent a lot of time in Brooklyn from the ages of 19-24 for the very same reason. He would often show up to my home unannounced during the first few months after the assault and I couldn't deal with it anymore. Many of my friends also worked at the theatre and could not understand why I was so afraid to be in the same space as him. Many people I knew felt I brought it upon myself as if it were the result of a situation I created. I felt alone.

My father, step-mother and I didn’t see eye to eye at this time because I dropped out of college that year after the assault. My father being an extremely religious man, advice at the time was to pray for my ex. My step-mother shared a story of one of her exes attempting to set her clothes on fire. I felt like no one understood my pain and confusion. The young man that I loved, who took my virginity at 18, was the same man who raped me a year later. 

I eventually got kicked out by my pops and step-mother and would often be gone six months to a year, spending most of my time in Brooklyn. When I walked through the streets, or stayed with a friend, or lived with a woman I was dating at the time, music became my salvation. I wrote on anything I could get my hands on. I kept a black Sharpie on me and went to the bodega to get a brown paper bag or the Chinese restaurants for menus. I listened to Jay-Z albums obsessively, always starting and ending my verses where he did. It's how I learned to count bars. He became my favorite rapper of all time that year because his music helped to keep me sane. 

Basketball no longer fed me and I dropped it completely. Talking to God while honing my skills as a lyricist helped me find my voice. It assisted me in discovering my power again. I often say I went from being assaulted to a lyrical assassin. It's crazy to think about, really. If I never experienced that assault, She Real would not exist. She Real was born as my own personal super hero, sent to protect Cherelle. I had to learn how to fight for me!

VALIDATED: Transforming pain into power is a central theme in your journey. What advice would you give to others who might be struggling to channel their pain into something positive?

SHE REAL: Show yourself some grace. Anyone who has experienced trauma understands how challenging it is to cope with PTSD. Healing takes time—much more than you might expect. Channeling your pain into positive activities is just one way to soothe yourself. You also need to find other healthy methods to confront your truth and process the anger, sadness, hurt, and fear that comes with it. This, too, requires time. So, don't let others judge you, and avoid judging yourself. Above all, remember to show yourself some grace because Lord knows you'll need it.

Also, when you can, go places and do things that speak to your soul. Partake in activities that inspire your inner child to laugh. If the kid in you would have loved it, do it!  Watch it! Read it! Wear it! No matter how silly it may seem. Sitting in front of a television set, and watching cartoons while eating a bowl of cereal in your pajamas, can be healing too.

VALIDATED: You’ve had the opportunity to be featured in major platforms like United Masters' Hitboy Beatexchange competition, 300 Entertainment unplugged, and Hot 97's Loaded Lux's Top Shelf Freestyle, as well as appearing in publications like Billboard, AllHipHop and Hip Hop Weekly. How do these achievements showcase your development as an artist, and what significance do they hold for you as an upcoming artist?

SHE REAL: My level of discipline and consistency reflects in everything I do. Each year, as I refine my craft, opportunities and connections seem to align with me, often as a result of hard work, financial investment, and/or the seeds I've planted in the past. Everything comes full circle. You’ll find that people and opportunities often reappear. When you treat others with respect and integrity, your actions are remembered. People share their experiences about you, and while not everyone will like you, a history of kindness generally leads to receiving kindness in return. Hustlers recognize and respect your drive when they see you in action. As long as your energy is aligned with your goals, you'll find success—unless, of course, it's not meant to be. I believe that is something only determined by God.

VALIDATED: You were part of Jermaine Dupri's So So Def Women's Cypher. How important do you think it is to have platforms that specifically highlight female talent in Hip Hop?

SHE REAL: That experience was incredible. My freestyle was among the first he posted on Instagram a few months before the showcase at SOB's. Although I wasn’t selected in the top 5 or 6, I still got the chance to perform on stage that night, and the crowd went wild.

Jermaine Dupri, who produced for Da Brat—who was not only the first female solo Hip Hop artist to go platinum but also a significant influence on me as a child—has a perspective on the current state of Hip Hop, especially concerning women, that I deeply respect. We’ve witnessed Hip Hop evolve from showcasing elite, complex styles that celebrated Black and Brown excellence to a period where, for almost a decade, Nicki Minaj was the sole prominent female voice. Without her, the female Hip Hop scene seemed almost nonexistent. When talent began to resurface, much of it felt derivative of her influence. What happened to originality? What happened to authenticity?

Jermaine Dupri’s effort to highlight female rappers who offer more depth than just sexual themes is a significant contribution. The culture needs balance to thrive and to nurture a new generation of thinkers who can inspire societal progress. Music, one of the most powerful influences on humanity, demands diverse representation. Given that Black women have historically been our first teachers, it is crucial to have platforms that showcase a broad spectrum of voices.

VALIDATED: You’ve opened for several well known artists including Joyner Lucas, Curren$y, Conway the Machine, Styles P, and Twista. What did you learn about yourself as an artist from those opportunities? Can you share a memorable moment from one of these shows?

SHE REAL: I’ve discovered that I can hold my own on stage, even in spaces where the audience’s favorite rappers are renowned for their lyrical storytelling. As an artist, I’ve learned the importance of being both prepared and confident when interacting with people in these environments, a skill that has developed through time and practice. I’ve also realized that my commitment to punctuality has opened up numerous opportunities, and I continue to benefit from them. Additionally, I’ve come to understand that achieving excellence requires more than just my own efforts; it is necessary to have a dedicated team to help execute at the highest level.

VALIDATED: Your performances have taken you internationally, from Paris to Toronto. How have these international experiences influenced your music and artistic perspective? How do you feel these opportunities have expanded your reach and impact as an artist?

SHE REAL: Overseas, Hip Hop is studied like it's a requisite for a PhD. During my first trip to Paris, I was captivated by the "House Party" atmosphere of a Hip Hop competition's after-party, whose competition I had the honor of headlining. The event showcased all elements of Hip Hop, with crews and individuals competing for championship belts in breakdancing, DJing, and rapping. The host embodied deep knowledge of the culture, and the unity and enjoyment were evident throughout the community. That night, and on every subsequent visit, I realized that the essence of Hip Hop is truly universal.

While in NYC, drill music dominates and ATL's trap scene is at its peak, I felt that the oversaturation of these subgenres was overshadowing conscious lyricism and the boom bap sound I cherished. I soon learned that mainstream Hip Hop represents just one path to success. Many living legends in the U.S., often dismissed as past their prime, are revered as rock stars abroad. International audiences appreciate authentic Hip Hop far more than commercial trends.

This experience revealed that my focus had been limited by mainstream narratives. It's possible to thrive completely outside of the mainstream, making a substantial living from your art without compromise. Finding your audience may require travel and a willingness to look beyond current trends. Your purpose and vision are a personal commitment between you and your higher self and God.

VALIDATED: As a female artist, how have you used your music to address and overcome the challenges you've faced, particularly those unique to women in the industry?

SHE REAL: As a Black woman, I use my music to address the challenges faced by women in the industry because I am one of them. My album, "I Don’t Rap About My Pu$$y," released on September 3rd, 2024 serves as an artistic reflection on societal issues. It questions whether the hyper-sexualization of Black and Brown women in mainstream media is all that society values us for, to the point where it’s even used to attract attention during political campaigns.

Does Hip Hop fully understand its influence over the youth? Are we really going to overlook the shift in the mindset of young Black women, driven by the constant imitation of current trends? Hip Hop has been a life-saving art form for me, and I feel compelled to challenge it to reach its full potential, as I know it can do the same for others.

No one should be pressured to conform to a single way of thinking, dressing, or behaving based on prevailing trends. My goal is to present an alternative perspective, not for others to replicate my path, but to encourage them to surpass the limitations of what they’re shown. 

It’s okay to be yourself. It’s okay to be an awkward outcast, trying to find your way in life. It’s okay to make mistakes and learn from them. You don’t have to conform to what you’re shown if it doesn’t resonate with your true self. This message is for the little girl in me and every Black and Brown girl everywhere. It’s for the teenage, young adult, and grown version of me who still questions her beauty and worth. I don’t rap about my Pu$$Y because I hope your Hip Hop soul seeks something deeper than mere flesh and worldly things.

VALIDATED: The Hip Hop industry can be tough, especially for women. How have you navigated the challenges and stayed true to your voice and message?

SHE REAL: I believe that I have a deep connection with God, who places me in situations to test the strength of my faith. Growing up in Harlem, surrounded by people and energy that fostered a love for Black and Brown communities, shaped my mindset and spirit. As I grow older, I focus on what serves my purpose and often find solitude when guided by God. Although I make mistakes and occasionally lose sight of my path, my core message remains unchanged. As Jay-Z puts it, “You can try to change, but that’s just the top layer. Man you was who you was fore you got here.” I was shaped to be this way, and as long as I remain one with my spirit and seek the truth, my music will continue to reflect my journey whether it's industry related or not.

VALIDATED: How do you feel you’ve grown as an artist since the release of your album “Hi Cherelle” in 2020?

SHE REAL: "Hi Cherelle" was a crucial release for me because it was the first project where I didn't overthink things. I freestyled 99% of the album, recorded it myself, and sent it off for mixing and mastering. The entire project was written, recorded, mixed, and mastered in just four days.

During the pandemic, I wanted to create music that felt distinctly New York—fun and free from current trends. This was also the month I was set to receive my degree in Music Business from Full Sail University, though I couldn’t walk across the stage due to quarantine. Having dropped out of college at 19, graduating was a significant achievement for me.

The album was also an effort to simplify my flow, moving away from the intricate internal rhyme schemes that some have said are too complex for the average listener. However, after performing these tracks on platforms like 300 Unplugged and opening for Conway the Machine, I realized that while the soul of the music was right, the pulse felt off. I needed faster-paced, high-energy, bar-heavy rhyme schemes to fully connect with my delivery.

As a fan first and foremost, I chose to disregard what others said would "sell" and instead created what resonated with my inner child and teenage self. On my latest album, I gave my all, adhering solely to my own high standards of excellence.

I have moved beyond past pain and fully embraced who I was meant to be.

VALIDATED: Your ninth album, 'I Don’t Rap About My Pu$$y,' is set to drop on September 3rd. What can fans anticipate from this project? What inspired its creation, and what message are you hoping to convey to your listeners?

SHE REAL: In my ninth album "I Don't Rap About My Pu$$y," I deliver a powerful and unapologetic critique of the current state of Hip Hop, where hyper-sexualization often overshadows true artistry. This project is a bold statement in a genre that has increasingly reduced the contributions of Black women to mere stereotypes. With a commitment to substance over sensationalism, I reclaim the narrative through masterful lyricism, compelling storytelling, and sharp social commentary.

VALIDATED: My favorite track of the album is 'Murder Self Hate' featuring Cie. Could you elaborate on the line, 'Lord I just want to love me like I should, breakthrough the trauma that’s surrounding beheading my whole hood…'?

SHE REAL: I believe that Black and Brown people everywhere have increasingly been taught over time not to love and accept themselves in their natural state. We are bombarded with images that encourage us to idolize and adopt ways of thinking that do not serve our well-being. True healing begins with self-love. Trauma is not only fueled by vices strategically placed around us but is also passed down from generation to generation within households. The ongoing cycles of poor habits and decision-making, I referred to as the "beheading" of hoods, are evident everywhere.

However, it’s challenging to love oneself when you’ve never been taught how and have few examples of what love looks like. I struggle with this myself, which is why I reach out to God in my music—I need help with this as well.

VALIDATED: What’s your current favorite record from the album, and what makes it stand out to you?

SHE REAL: I love all the songs on this album, each standing out for different reasons. There is a clear sense of versatility throughout the project. I challenge Hip Hop enthusiasts everywhere to listen for themselves and share what stands out to them.

VALIDATED: You display your storytelling skills on tracks like ‘Consequences’ and ‘DND’ featuring Dee the Philosopher. Which rappers have influenced your approach to storytelling?

SHE REAL: I'll list them in no particular order: Jay-Z, Eminem, Joyner Lucas, Lil' Wayne, Eve, Nas, Outkast, Kendrick, Big Sean, Twista, Ice Cube, Biggie, Busta Rhymes, 50 Cent, Kanye, Missy Elliot, Lauryn Hill, Ludacris and Tupac.

VALIDATED: Skits on Hip Hop albums have become somewhat of a lost art, but your skits are a refreshing throwback. Which Hip Hop artists' skits stand out as the most memorable to you?

SHE REAL: This is a loaded question because the range is crazy. The Mad Rapper skit with Biggie, the spiked bat skit on 36 Chambers with Wu-Tang, Ludacris' "My Girl Fuckn Luda" skit or Luda's tea-bagging skit, Kanye's skits on his first two albums and the Chris Rock skit on My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, the skits on 50's Get Rich or Die Tryin', Eminem's skit in the middle of his song "Criminal", DJ Eazy Dick on Snoop's "Ain't No Fun", Ice Cube's skits on Death Certificate, OutKast's "Where Are My Panties" skit, Kendrick's skits on good kid, m.A.A.d city, Eve's skit where she says the dude is on his period on Eve-Olution, Big Sean's skit where he calls the girl a greedy hoe because he thought she was ordering room service again, Jay-Z's "Pain in Da Ass" skits, and the Sideline Story skit that J. Cole did were all super inspirational. I know I’m forgetting a bunch. Redman has some dope ones. A new one I found recently when doing research was Black Sheeps' skit about I had a dream I was hard.

VALIDATED: Your mantra, ‘I make Hip Hop for Millennials,’ suggests you see yourself as their voice. Do you feel that way?

SHE REAL: When it comes to being a voice, I wouldn’t frame it that way. Instead, I’d say I’ve been effective at identifying and targeting my audience by narrowing my focus, which is one of the 22 Immutable Laws of Branding. Reviewing my analytics, I see that 60-70% of my listeners are men. All of my listeners are primarily aged 25 to 44. I’ve simply given a name to the truth I create Hip Hop for millennials. 

I love that this focus allows listeners to have a clear expectation of what they’ll receive from me: a high standard of bars, lyricism, and storytelling. It also means there’s a recognizable sound and style associated with my work. This categorizes me among a group of excellence right away. Millennials are products of the Golden Era of Hip Hop, and I’m in excellent company. Look at Kendrick, Drake, Nicki, Big Sean, Nipsey, Meek Mill, Joyner, J. Cole, Rapsody, and Dave East—they are elite lyricists for a reason.

VALIDATED: What challenges do you believe women in Hip Hop still face today, and how do you plan to continue breaking barriers?

SHE REAL: I believe women aren't always recognized for their lyrical influence on Hip Hop. Missy Elliott assisted in the arrangement of "All About the Benjamins," according to The Lox. Eve's "Love Is Blind" is one of the greatest Hip Hop stories ever told. Lauryn Hill set a standard for excellence that almost no one can touch with The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill. People often overlook Nicki Minaj's influence, as if her run wasn’t phenomenal. Do you know anyone else who can get on a record with Jay-Z and Kanye and deliver the most memorable verse? She bodies every feature she’s ever done—period. No misses. Y’all treat her like she wasn’t the bridge that made it possible for so many artists to thrive during this time. I’m baffled by how people pretend that women in Hip Hop only influence other women. It’s not true, whether people want to admit it or not. I am here to hold that torch and prove our pens are just as elite and as influential as our male counterparts. 

VALIDATED: What message do you hope to convey to young women through your music and your journey in the Hip Hop industry?

SHE REAL: Respectfully, I answered this already in another question but it was phrased differently.

VALIDATED: Aside from the album, what does the rest of 2024 look like for you?

SHE REAL: I never reveal what I'm working on next. I will say I'm excited to hit the road as an opener for Wu Tang's GZA and Inspectah Deck in Texas this week.

VALIDATED: What are the best ways for fans, listeners, and readers to show their support for you and your work? Are there specific platforms, events, or activities they should be aware of?

SHE REAL: My new album, "I Don't Rap About My Pu$$y", will be available exclusively on my websiteShe RealTalk.com. Streaming services offer artists only a fraction of a cent per stream, so this is my way of cutting out the middleman. On my site, you can currently find merchandise featuring QR codes for exclusive music and content, mini-NFC CDs, and digital albums for purchase. There are many surprises in store in regard to this roll-out. So in the words of the Fugees, ready or not, here I come.