Full Name: Marlanna Evans
Stage Name: Rapsody
Date of Birth: January 21, 1983
Place of Birth: Snow Hill, North Carolina, United States
Genres: Hip hop, R&B, Soul
Occupations: Rapper, songwriter
Years Active: 2007–present
Labels: It’s a Wonderful World Music Group, Roc Nation, We Each Other
Associated Acts: 9th Wonder, Kendrick Lamar, Erykah Badu, Mac Miller, Talib Kweli, Queen Latifah
Website:
Early Life and Background
Marlanna Evans, known professionally as Rapsody, was born in Snow Hill, North Carolina, to a family that valued education and culture.
Raised in the small town of Snow Hill, she developed a deep appreciation for music and storytelling from an early age. Her academic journey led her to North Carolina State University, where she joined the hip-hop collective H2O and its offshoot, Kooley High. Despite having no prior rapping experience, Evans quickly immersed herself in the craft, showcasing her natural talent and dedication.
Career Beginnings and Breakthrough
In 2004, Evans and her group encountered renowned producer 9th Wonder, who was impressed by her lyrical prowess. This meeting marked the beginning of a significant collaboration. In 2007, she made her recording debut on 9th Wonder’s album The Dream Merchant Vol. 2. Her solo career took off in 2008 when she signed with 9th Wonder’s label, It’s a Wonderful World Music Group. Her mixtapes, including Return of the B-Girl (2010) and Thank H.E.R. Now (2012), garnered critical acclaim and established her as a formidable force in hip hop.
Musical Evolution and Discography
The Idea of Beautiful (2012)
Rapsody’s debut studio album, The Idea of Beautiful, released in 2012, introduced her as a thoughtful and articulate lyricist. The album featured collaborations with artists like Mac Miller and Talib Kweli, setting the stage for her future endeavors.
Laila’s Wisdom (2017)
Her sophomore album, Laila’s Wisdom, released in 2017, marked a significant milestone in her career. The album received widespread acclaim and earned her Grammy nominations for Best Rap Album and Best Rap Song for “Sassy”. The project featured collaborations with Kendrick Lamar, Busta Rhymes, and BJ the Chicago Kid, further solidifying her place in the industry.
Eve (2019)
In 2019, Rapsody released Eve, an album that celebrated influential Black women throughout history. Each track was named after a notable figure, such as Nina Simone, Oprah Winfrey, and Aaliyah. The album was lauded for its depth and artistry, with Rapsody drawing inspiration from her heroes to create a powerful narrative.
Please Don’t Cry (2024)
Her fourth studio album, Please Don’t Cry, released in 2024, showcased Rapsody’s versatility and growth as an artist. Departing from her usual collaborators, she worked with producers like S1, Hit-Boy, and BLK ODYSSY. The album featured a blend of R&B, gospel, reggae, and trap influences, reflecting her multifaceted talent and experiences. Notably, the track “3:AM,” featuring Erykah Badu, won the Grammy Award for Best Melodic Rap Performance in 2025, marking Rapsody’s first Grammy win .
Artistic Philosophy and Influences
Rapsody is celebrated for her intricate rhyme patterns, metaphors, and wordplay. She cites Jay-Z, Mos Def, Lauryn Hill, and MC Lyte as significant influences on her music. Her production is primarily handled by The Soul Council, a team of in-house producers at It’s a Wonderful World Music Group, including E. Jones, Ka$h Don’t Make Beats, AMP, Eric G., Nottz, and Khrysis. Rapsody’s philosophy, “Culture Over Everything,” emphasizes the importance of preserving and respecting hip-hop culture above commercial success.
Collaborations and Industry Impact
Throughout her career, Rapsody has collaborated with a diverse array of artists across genres, including Kendrick Lamar, Erykah Badu, Queen Latifah, Mac Miller, Talib Kweli, and Busta Rhymes. These collaborations have not only enriched her music but have also cemented her reputation as a respected figure in the music industry. Her work continues to inspire and influence both emerging and established artists.
Personal Life
While Rapsody maintains a relatively private personal life, her music often reflects her experiences and perspectives. She uses her platform to address social issues, advocate for women in hip hop, and celebrate Black culture. Her authenticity and commitment to her craft have garnered her a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim.
Awards and Recognition
- 2025 Grammy Award: Best Melodic Rap Performance for “3:AM” featuring Erykah Badu .
- 2018 Grammy Nominations: Best Rap Album and Best Rap Song for “Sassy” from Laila’s Wisdom .
- 2020 BET Hip Hop Awards: Lyricist of the Year.
