After establishing herself with a flurry of impactful offerings over the years, US artist Dopegirl Zhane’ now teams up with fast-rising producer RHYME to deliver their sultry collaboration ‘You Wanna F*** Me’.
Exploring this dark and immersive R&B-inspired aesthetic for their latest outing, ‘We Wanna F*** Me’ makes for an incredibly absorbing listen throughout. So we sat down with her to find out more about her origins and influences over the years.
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Can you tell us a bit about your musical background and how you first got into making music?
Since I was young, I’ve naturally always been a little entertainer, dancing, singing, putting on little shows around the house. My big sister used to rap and write in her notebooks, and I wanted to be just like her. That’s what really made me pick up the pen and start rapping.
Who are some of your biggest musical influences, past and present?
I always looked up to Missy Elliott. She’s a female and her creativity was, and still is, crazy to me. Of course, T-Pain, he really paved the way for autotune being accepted in mainstream music. And Akon, because I got a personal front-row seat to watch his journey to superstardom. Some other influences: Nina Simone, Michael Jackson, the Isley Brothers, Travis Scott, Future, and Young Thug. I’m a little blend of old soul and new wave.
Were there any specific artists or experiences that helped shape your sound and style early on?
Honestly, my childhood best friend Ali OzBrn had a big impact. He was the first person to bring me into a real studio with real equipment. He helped build my confidence in the booth and taught me how to really make records, not just freestyle for fun.
Can you share a memorable moment or experience that really shaped your musical journey?
For me, just being a fly on the wall around dope people in the industry gave me priceless game. Watching how they moved, handled business, and stayed creative — it all taught me how to carry myself without needing somebody to hold my hand.
How do you express your personal experiences and identity through your music?
All my songs are basically diary entries. However I’m feeling in that moment, I just let it out, no filter. My music is where I say exactly what’s on my mind and heart.
As a female artist, have you faced any challenges? How did you push through them?
Definitely. Sometimes it’s tough keeping things strictly business with certain people. But I just stay respectful, cute, and focused. Plus, I took it a step further. I went to SAE to learn engineering. I wanted to be able to pull up and create without having to depend on anybody. Knowing your craft makes you powerful.
Are there any messages or themes you try to put out through your music?
Always be yourself, unapologetically. That’s my main message — embrace your realness. Don’t water yourself down for nobody.
What’s your creative process like when it comes to writing and making music?
It really depends on the vibe. If I’m feeling the beat heavy, I’ll just start freestyling. Other times, I’ll lay a melody first and come back to fill in the lyrics. I just move with whatever energy is flowing.
How do you hope your music connects with your audience, especially young women coming up?
I just wanna be as relatable as possible. I want people, especially other girls, to know that if you love what you create, that’s enough. Somebody out there will feel you. There’s always an audience for authentic energy.
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Listen to Dopegirl Zhane’ & RHYME’s new single ‘You Wanna F*** Me’ below.