Who? This Chicago rapper and 26-year-old mother of two had her breakout moment a decade ago when she opened for Junior M.A.F.I.A. as part of Infamous Syndicate. Still in her teens, she then scored a sexed-up verse on Ludacris’ 1999 mega-hit, “What’s Your Fantasy,” before going solo.
What’s the Deal? Shawnna’s second solo album, Block Music, separates her from the other females spitting hard-edged rhymes. While Lady Sov raps on fitting in and Lil’ Kim spits explicit sexual references, Shawnna knows she’s already solidified her place in the rap world and has a rhyme-worthy booty. “Damn” (featuring Smoke) is a rolling, dancehall-ready cut about being a lady and a hustler, wearing stilettos and, more importantly, hip-hop’s crown.
Fun Fact: Shawnna’s father is blues great Buddy Guy. JULIA SIMON
Now Hear This: Shawnna – “Damn” WINDOWS MEDIA HI | WINDOWS MEDIA LOW | REAL HI
Talk: Would you play Block Music on your block? COMMENT
On the Web: Shawnna at defjam.com
