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Da Brat

Da Brat is an American rapper from Chicago, Illinois, born Shawntae Harris.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Da Brat is an American rapper from Chicago, Illinois, born Shawntae Harris. She rose to prominence in the 1990s after signing with So So Def Recordings and releasing her debut album, Funkdafied, which became the first platinum-certified album by a female solo rapper. She has also worked as an actress and media personality.

Early life and career beginnings

Da Brat was born Shawntae Harris in Chicago, Illinois. She began her career in the early 1990s and was later discovered by producer Jermaine Dupri after winning a rap contest. She signed with Dupri's So So Def Recordings in 1994.

Breakthrough with Funkdafied

Her debut album, Funkdafied, was released in 1994 through So So Def Recordings. The album's commercial success made her the first female solo rapper to earn a platinum certification.

Later work

Beyond recording, Da Brat has worked in television, radio, and film. She is described as an actress, producer, and media personality. She has appeared in various TV shows and movies.

Personal life

Da Brat is publicly known by the birth name Shawntae Harris. She married businesswoman Jesseca Dupart in 2022.

Key facts

  • Da Brat began her music career in 1992 and signed with So So Def Recordings in 1994.
  • Her debut album, Funkdafied, was released in 1994 and became the first platinum-certified album by a female solo rapper.
  • She was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois.
  • She has also worked as an actress and television/radio personality.
  • She has been married to Jesseca Dupart since 2022.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Da Brat?
Da Brat is the stage name of Shawntae Harris, an American rapper from Chicago, Illinois.
What is Da Brat's best-known album?
Her best-known album is Funkdafied, released in 1994.
Why is Funkdafied notable?
It became the first platinum-certified album by a female solo rapper.
When did Da Brat start her career?
She began her career in 1992.
What other work has Da Brat done?
She has also worked as an actress and media personality, including television and radio appearances.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Da_Brat
    Supports: Birth name, birth date, birthplace, career start, signing with So So Def, debut album, and platinum certification milestone.
  2. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0004771/bio/
    Supports: Birth information, occupations, and marriage to Jesseca Dupart.
  3. Da Brat official biography — https://sosobrat.com/bio
    Supports: Chicago origin, music career, and broader entertainment roles.