Da Brat broke ground in hip-hop as a bold voice from Chicago. Born Shawntae Harris on April 14, 1974, she became the first female solo rapper to go platinum. Her debut album Funkdafied sold over a million copies in 1994.
She mixed tough lyrics with fun energy. Hits like “Funkdafied” and “Give It 2 You” topped charts. She worked with stars like Mariah Carey and Kris Kross early on.
Now 51 years old, Da Brat shines as a rapper, actress, and radio host. She married Jesseca Dupart in 2022 and welcomed a son in 2023. Her story mixes trailblazing success with real-life strength.
Da Brat Wiki / Bio
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Shawntae Harris-Dupart |
| Birth | April 14, 1974, Chicago, Illinois, USA |
| Age | 51 years (as of 2026) |
| Height | 5 feet 4 inches (163 cm) |
| Weight | Around 64 kg (141 lbs) |
| Occupation | Rapper, actress, radio personality |
| Education | Kenwood Academy; Academy of Scholastic Achievement |
| Career Highlights | First female solo rapper with platinum album Funkdafied; hits with Mariah Carey, Missy Elliott |
| Net Worth | Estimated $4 million |
| Wealth Sources | Music sales, acting, radio hosting, features |
| Administration Service | N/A (no public record) |
| Notable Skills | Rapid rap delivery, songwriting, charisma |
| Family | Wife Jesseca Dupart; son (born 2023); half-sister LisaRaye McCoy |
| Social Presence | Active on Instagram; shares family and music updates |
Da Brat Real Name
Da Brat uses that catchy stage name everywhere. Her real name is Shawntae Harris-Dupart. She added Dupart after marriage in 2022.
The nickname came from her only-child days. Family called her a brat playfully. It stuck and became her brand.
Fans know her as Da Brat simply. It fits her fun, bold rap style. She keeps Shawntae for close family ties.
Da Brat Early Life and Education
Da Brat grew up in Chicago’s West Side. Born on April 14, 1974, she lived with her mom and grandma mostly. Her parents never married.
She played drums in church young. Music sparked early there. She joined school bands too.
She went to Kenwood Academy first. Later, the Academy of Scholastic Achievement helped her finish studies. She played seven instruments in band.
Those years built her rhythm and drive. Tough streets taught street smarts. It shaped her raw rap voice.
| Stage | Details |
|---|---|
| Schooling | Attended Kenwood Academy (played sports like basketball/track); transferred to The Academy of Scholastic Achievement |
| Higher Education | None (focused on music career post-high school) |
| Degree | High school diploma |
| Special Achievement | Played seven instruments in school band; early rap talent led to discovery |
Da Brat Parents and Siblings
Da Brat has a blended family story. Her father David Ray McCoy was a businessman. He passed away years ago.
Her mother Nadine Brewer drove a city bus. She raised Da Brat with strong values. Family split homes early on.
She has a half-sister LisaRaye McCoy. LisaRaye acts in films and TV. They share a close bond now.
No full siblings exist. Cousins and extended family filled gaps. Family support fueled her music dreams.
| Family Member | Details |
|---|---|
| Father | David Ray McCoy (businessman) |
| Mother | Nadine Brewer (city bus driver; some sources list Beverly Calloway) |
| Spouse | Jesseca “Judy” Harris-Dupart |
| Children | Son – True Legend (born 2023) |
| Siblings | Half-sister – Actress LisaRaye McCoy |
| Family Support | Raised primarily by mother/grandmother; church choir background influenced early talent |
Da Brat Husband – Jesseca “Judy” Harris-Dupart
Da Brat married Jesseca Dupart in 2022. Jesseca runs a hair care business. They tied the knot on 2/22/22.
Their love story started in 2020. They announced it publicly then. The wedding felt like a dream come true.
Before that, relationships stayed private. She came out as lesbian in 2020. Focus now stays on her wife and family.
They support each other fully. Marriage brought stability and joy. It shows in her happy posts.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jesseca “Judy” Harris-Dupart |
| Relationship | Wife of rapper Da Brat |
| First Interaction | Met through professional/social circles (publicly confirmed 2020) |
| Love Story | Bonded over shared values; came out publicly in 2020; quick engagement/marriage |
| Marriage Date | February 22, 2022 |
| Marriage Location | Georgia, USA (fairy-tale themed wedding) |
| Children | Son True Legend (2023); Judy has three grown children from prior relationships |
| Role in Da Brat’s Life | Biggest supporter, business partner, co-parent, motivator |
| Public Appearances | Frequent on red carpets, reality TV, events together |
| Contribution | Emotional and professional support; co-stars in Brat Loves Judy; joint ventures in beauty/wellness |
| Inspiration | Their story celebrated as trailblazing LGBTQ+ love, marriage, and parenthood |
Da Brat Children
Da Brat welcomed her first child in 2023. The baby boy arrived on July 6. She and wife Jesseca shared the news with joy.
Pregnancy came at age 49. They used surrogacy for the journey. It felt special and emotional.
Motherhood changed her world deeply. She calls it a dream realized. Family time fills her days now.
She shares sweet moments carefully. Her son brings huge happiness. It adds new purpose to life.
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Da Brat Age, Weight, Height, and Physical Appearance
Da Brat is 51 years old in 2026. Born April 14, 1974, she keeps strong energy. Age adds wisdom to her style.
She stands 5 feet 4 inches tall. That height suits her confident presence. She weighs about 64 kg.
Her build stays fit and curvy. Dark brown eyes and hair mark her look. Bold outfits show her flair.
She dresses with edge and fun. Fans love her timeless vibe. Appearance matches her lively spirit.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | 5 ft 5 in (165 cm approx.) |
| Weight | 60–64 kg (approx.) |
| Eye Condition | N/A |
| Personality | Known for bold, confident, playful, and pioneering energy in hip-hop |
Da Brat Before Fame
Da Brat rapped from age 11 in Chicago. She played in school bands first. Music stayed a passion early.
In 1992 she won a local MC contest. It led to meeting Kris Kross. They connected her to Jermaine Dupri.
She recorded with them soon after. Small gigs built her name slowly. Hustle paid off bit by bit.
Those days taught grit. She chased dreams hard. Fame arrived after steady work.
Da Brat Career
Da Brat signed with So So Def in 1992. Her debut Funkdafied dropped in 1994. It went platinum fast.
The title track hit No. 1 on rap charts. “Give It 2 You” climbed high too. She became a pioneer.
She released Anuthatantrum in 1996. Unrestricted followed in 2000. Features with Mariah Carey boosted her.
She acted in films and hosted radio. Recent work includes reality TV. Her voice stays fresh in hip-hop.
Da Brat Social Media Presence
Da Brat stays active on Instagram. She posts family updates and music clips. Fans connect through her shares.
She talks about life openly there. Photos with her wife and son draw love. It builds a warm community.
She promotes projects and inspires followers. Posts feel real and positive. Social media keeps her close to fans.
Engagement stays high always. She uses it for fun and connection. It helps her story reach far.
Da Brat Net Worth
Da Brat has an estimated net worth of $4 million. It comes from music sales and features. Acting adds income too.
Radio hosting brings steady pay. Past hits earn royalties still. Smart moves help rebuild wealth.
Legal issues hit finances before. She bounced back strong. Current success shows resilience.
Her empire grows quietly. Fans admire her journey. Wealth supports family and dreams.
Da Brat Records and Achievements
Da Brat made history early. She became the first female solo rapper with a platinum album. Funkdafied sold over a million.
She earned two Grammy nominations. One for “Not Tonight” remix. Another for solo work later.
She topped rap charts multiple times. Collaborations with big names boosted her. Awards reflect her impact.
Her sales crossed millions worldwide. She paved ways for women in rap. Achievements inspire many still.
| Year | Career / Achievement |
|---|---|
| 1992 | Discovered after winning rap contest; signed to So So Def Recordings |
| 1994 | Debut album Funkdafied – first female solo rapper to go platinum |
| 1996–2000 | Albums Anuthatantrum (Gold), Unrestricted (Platinum); hits like “Funkdafied,” “Not Tonight” |
| Ongoing | Features with Mariah Carey, Missy Elliott, Jermaine Dupri; TV host (Dish Nation, Rickey Smiley Morning Show); reality TV (Brat Loves Judy, Growing Up Hip Hop: Atlanta) |
| 2020s | Came out publicly; executive producer/star on Brat Loves Judy; book The Way Love Goes (2025/2026) |
| Present | Continues music, media, and advocacy for LGBTQ+ representation |
Da Brat Legacy and Impact
Da Brat opened doors in hip-hop. As a female pioneer, she showed bold works. Her style influenced later rappers.
She mixed fun and toughness well. It changed views on women in rap. Young artists study her path.
Her platinum milestone set standards high. She proved talent wins out. Legacy grows through every tribute.
She motivates dreamers daily. Impact lasts in the genre. Future rappers feel her influence.
Da Brat Awards and Recognitions
| Category | Year(s) | Award / Recognition | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Music Awards | 1990s–2000s | Grammy Nominations | Nominated for works including “Not Tonight” remix |
| 1994+ | Platinum Certification | First female solo rapper with platinum album (Funkdafied) | |
| Various | Billboard Chart Success | Multiple #1 rap singles; influential in ’90s hip-hop | |
| Cultural & Other | 2021+ | Trailblazer Recognition | First LGBTQ female power couple on TV (Brat Loves Judy); pioneering female rapper |
| Recent Recognition | Ongoing | Media Presence | Long-running radio/TV roles; celebrated for longevity in industry |
Da Brat Nationality and Religion
Da Brat holds American nationality. Born and raised in Chicago, she stays tied to roots. Illinois pride shows often.
She grew up in an Apostolic church. Choir and drums shaped early faith. Religion gave comfort young.
She keeps beliefs personal now. Gratitude appears in her words. It guides her quietly.
Her identity blends city grit strong. She honors origins in music. It adds real depth.
Da Brat Future Plan and Goals
Da Brat plans more music and projects. Fans wait for new tracks eagerly. She aims to create freely.
Family time stays top priority. She wants to enjoy motherhood fully. Balance drives her forward.
She mentors young talent often. Radio work may expand too. Goals focus on joy and growth.
She eyes positive impact ahead. Future holds more wins. Her passion pushes on.
Da Brat Lesser-Known Facts about Da Brat
| Fact No. | Lesser-Known Fact |
|---|---|
| 1 | Real name Shawntae Harris; stage name from being a “spoiled only child.” |
| 2 | Started rapping at age 11; played multiple instruments in school band. |
| 3 | First female solo rapper to achieve platinum album sales in 1994. |
| 4 | Discovered after winning a Yo! MTV Raps contest in Chicago. |
| 5 | Served prison time (2007–2011) for aggravated assault conviction. |
| 6 | Came out as lesbian publicly in 2020 after years of privacy. |
| 7 | Gave birth to son True Legend at age 49 via IVF. |
| 8 | Half-sister of actress LisaRaye McCoy. |
| 9 | Featured on iconic ’90s tracks like Mariah Carey’s “Heartbreaker” remix. |
| 10 | Co-host on radio shows and Dish Nation for years. |
| 11 | Starred in reality series Brat Loves Judy with wife (first LGBTQ female couple on such a show). |
| 12 | Overcame legal/financial challenges, including bankruptcy filing. |
| 13 | Advocate for love, family, and representation in hip-hop. |
| 14 | Co-authored book on relationships with wife. |
| 15 | Faced fertility struggles including miscarriage before successful pregnancy. |
| 16 | Considers wife Judy her biggest strength and partner in life/business. |
| 17 | Maintains Chicago roots despite Atlanta-based career. |
| 18 | Believes success is about impact, authenticity, and breaking barriers. |
Da Brat Songs List
Here are some key Da Brat tracks fans love:
- Funkdafied
- Give It 2 You
- Fa All Y’all
- Not Tonight (remix)
- That’s What I’m Looking For
- What Chu Like (feat. soulja slim)
- I Think They Like Me (remix)
- Girlfight (remix)
- Heartbreaker (remix with Mariah Carey)
- Always Be My Baby (remix)
- Loverboy (remix)
- In My Bed (remix)
- Got It Poppin’
- Hands in the Air
- Gotta Thing 4 You
These songs highlight her chart success. Many became classics.
Da Brat Hobbies
- Spending time with family
- Playing music instruments
- Watching sports games
- Hosting radio shows
- Trying new fashion looks
- Traveling with loved ones
Da Brat Favorite Things
- Favorite food: Chicago-style dishes
- Favorite collaborator: Jermaine Dupri
- Favorite color: Bold bright tones
- Favorite memory: Debut album success
- Favorite place: Chicago roots
- Favorite value: Family loyalty
Da Brat Interesting Facts
- She was the first female solo rapper to go platinum.
- She played seven instruments in school band.
- Her half-sister is actress LisaRaye McCoy.
- She welcomed a son at age 49.
- She married on 2/22/22 for fun date.
- She came out publicly in 2020.
- She won a rap contest that launched her career.
FAQs
Who is Da Brat and what is her real name?
Da Brat is a pioneering rapper. Her real name is Shawntae Harris-Dupart.
How old is Da Brat in 2026?
She is 51 years old. Born April 14, 1974, in Chicago.
What is Da Brat’s height and weight?
She stands 5 feet 4 inches tall. She weighs around 64 kg.
Does Da Brat have children?
Yes, she has one son born in 2023. She shares him with wife Jesseca.
What is Da Brat’s net worth?
Her net worth is estimated at $4 million. It comes from music and other work.
Conclusion
Da Brat carved a lasting spot in hip-hop from Chicago streets. Born Shawntae Harris in 1974, she rose as the first female solo rapper to hit platinum. Funkdafied changed the game in 1994.
She teamed with legends like Mariah Carey and Missy Elliott. Her bold flow and fun energy won fans over. Challenges like legal issues tested her, but she stayed strong.
At 51, she enjoys marriage to Jesseca Dupart and motherhood. Their son brings new joy. Radio hosting and family keep her grounded.
Her $4 million net worth shows smart recovery. She inspires women in rap daily. Da Brat proves grit and talent build legacies. Her story motivates many. The impact of her music lives on strong.
