WSSU welcomes Grammy-winning artist, Rapsody, for Women’s History Month celebration
Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) is excited to host Grammy-winning hip-hop artist Rapsody as a distinguished guest speaker for its annual Women’s History Month celebration. The event, titled “Ladies First: Women on the Rise,” will take place on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at 7 p.m. in Dillard Auditorium on the WSSU campus.
This dynamic program will celebrate the contributions of women in entertainment, education, and community leadership, offering an engaging forum to explore critical topics such as mental health, politics, social engagement and social unrest.
Rapsody will engage in an intimate conversation with Dr. Dawn Tafari, an associate professor of education at WSSU, providing insight into her journey as a woman in the music industry and the broader cultural landscape.
The evening will also feature a panel discussion with past “Ladies First” participants, sharing diverse perspectives on the role of women in shaping music and culture. DJ Ena Pop will provide music throughout the event, creating an atmosphere of inspiration and celebration.
A native of Snow Hill, N.C., Rapsody was born Marlanna Evans and developed an interest in music at a young age. She briefly joined the hip-hop group, Kooley High, formed while she was a student at NC State University before beginning her solo career in 2008.
She released her first EP, “The Black Mamba,” followed by her debut full-length, “The Idea of Beautiful,” in 2012; “Laila’s Wisdom” (2017); and “Eve” (2019).
After a hiatus from releasing solo music, Rapsody resurfaced for her fourth studio album, “Please Don’t Cry,” in May 2024. She won her first Grammy Award for Best Melodic Rap Performance at this year’s 67th Annual Grammy Awards for her collaboration with Erykah Badu, “3:AM,” from this album.
The 22-track album is a more self-aware version of the rapper as she explores the depth of her talent with more vulnerability.
For ticket information, please contact Chelii Broussard at broussardch@wssu.edu.
