Before Cardi, Before Nicki—There Was Roxanne Shante: The Pioneer Explains Why Female Rappers Don’t Owe Anyone An Explanation Ahead Of Hosting Rock The Bells 2025 [Exclusive] - Page 2

A Responsibility to Lead

As a cultural icon, Shante feels a responsibility to lead by example, showing the next generation of hip-hop artists that success is not defined by age, gender, or circumstances. “I think my responsibility is to be able to show them that even well into your 50s, life does not just stop in your 20s,” Shante reflects. “It doesn’t stop in your 30s. It may start for you in your teens, you know, but even in your 30s and your 40s, you can still enjoy life, look good, and fulfill your dreams in your 50s.” 

Shante’s career shows the next generation that it’s never too late to keep pursuing your dreams. Despite the many obstacles she faced early on, including being one of a few women in a male-dominated industry, Shante has proven that longevity in hip-hop is possible when you maintain discipline and stay true to yourself.

“I’ve never drank, I’ve never smoked, never used drugs or anything like that,” she says. For Shante, maintaining sobriety was essential to her longevity in the industry. “You can deal with things soberly, and not only that, it’s okay to say no to certain things.” Shante encourages young artists to stay focused on their goals and not be swayed by the pressures of the industry.

Rock The Bells 2025

Shante’s role as the host of Rock The Bells 2025 is a moment of reflection and celebration of the culture she helped build. The festival’s theme, “Class of 2025: Summer’s Kool,” is set to highlight the past, present, and future of hip-hop. The star-studded lineup includes Busta Rhymes, Redman, Remy Ma, and more, with Shante as the Dean of Ceremonies.

“When it comes to Rock The Bells festival, what I try to bring is not only the classic hip-hop, but I also like to bring that reminder that we’re good,’” Shante says. “Everything for me is about laughter and enjoyment.”

For Shante, the festival is about connecting with the fans and sharing her energy. “I don’t have a scripted show. Anything that I do, I don’t take scripts,” she explains. “I don’t make plans for the future. I just live life. I want people to smile and know, ‘Okay, she’s getting ready to make me laugh or say something funny.’”

Her performances will undoubtedly be infused with joy, as Shante believes that music—and life—should be an opportunity to uplift and celebrate.

Finding Joy in the Small Things

Despite the monumental success she’s achieved, Shante finds joy in the simple things in life. “I’m really addicted to these chocolate chip cookies,” she confesses with a laugh. “I found these chocolate chip cookies that come in this little glass jar. They’re a little expensive, but I feel like I deserve them.”

It’s not just indulgence that brings her joy. Shante finds fulfillment in seeing others succeed. “I’ve always been someone to cheer others on,” she says. “I’ve never felt like, ‘Okay, they may be better than me, so I don’t want anybody to see them.’ I’ve always felt like if you’re better than me, the world needs to see you, and if I can open up that door for you, then come on in.”

This mindset of lifting others up, rather than competing with them, speaks to the generosity that Shante embodies. “When I get involved in anything, I always want to see everybody win,” she says. “I get joy out of seeing people cross the finish line.”

Roxanne Shante is not only an icon of the genre’s past but a force in its present and future. Her message to the next generation of hip-hop artists is clear: success is about embracing the journey, not just the destination, and finding joy even in the toughest moments.

For more information on Rock The Bells 2025, visit rockthebellsfestival.com. 

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