Adam Vary
Updated on: October 12, 2024 6:38 pm GMT
Rapper Eve, known for her powerful lyrics and magnetic performances, opens up about her early career and unexpected experiences in her new memoir, Who’s That Girl?. The book not only dives into her journey in the music industry but also shares candid reflections on her short-lived stint as a stripper, offering readers an intimate look at the life of the artist behind the hits.
From Aspiring Rapper to Stripper
Eve, whose full name is Eve Jihan Jeffers-Cooper, admits that before she became a platinum-selling artist, she worked as a teenage stripper. Her revelation comes as a surprise, considering her eventual rise to fame with hits like “Let Me Blow Ya Mind” featuring Gwen Stefani and “Gangsta Lovin'” with Alicia Keys.
- Short Stint: Eve only worked as a stripper for two months.
- Motivation: Financial struggles fueled her decision to seek fast money to support her aspiration of launching a rap career.
Reflecting on her time in the strip club, Eve humorously calls herself “the laziest stripper.” She recounts moments where she would try to avoid dancing, instead offering to rap for customers. In her memoir, she writes, “Let me rap for you. If you don’t like it, I’ll give you a lap dance for free.” This clever negotiation approach surprisingly garnered her tips, underscoring her determination to pursue her passion despite the unconventional circumstances.
Life Lessons in the Spotlight
The memoir is rich with stories that highlight not only Eve’s humorous side but also the lessons she learned from her experiences. After two months in the club, she realized that the lifestyle did not align with her values.
- Guilt and Depression: She felt guilty about her choice compared to other women who were working tirelessly to support their families.
- Learning Experience: For Eve, the experience was a way to understand her limits and identify the importance of following one’s true calling.
“I hop off that potential hell ride triumphantly, knowing that I just rapped for this man with my ties out. And he’s still tipping me when I didn’t even give him a lap dance,” she recalls. Such moments blend humor with stark honesty, providing readers with a glimpse of her journey towards self-acceptance.
The Soundtrack of Eve’s Life
In addition to her reflections on her early career, Eve shares her connection to music. In an interview discussing her memoir, she highlights various songs and artists that have influenced her life.
- First Song Impact: The first song that resonated with her was “Cappuccino” by MC Lyte. It sparked the desire in Eve to become a female rapper.
- Morning Inspiration: Eve’s collaboration with Sia and Chaka Khan on “Immortal Queen” is a powerful anthem, inspiring her to start her day on a high note.
Some of her other notable music moments include:
- Karaoke Favorite: The Eurythmics’ classic “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” is her go-to karaoke song.
- Party Vibe: When choosing songs for parties, she favors a mix depending on the crowd, from hip-hop to Afrobeats.
Eve’s favorite tracks highlight her range of musical tastes, showcasing her versatility as an artist who celebrates both the past and present.
Personal Relationships and New Beginnings
Eve’s life is not just about her career; she also touches on personal relationships, especially her bond with her husband. Together, they curated a birthing playlist that included a mix of sentimental and classic songs.
- Emotional Songs: “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong holds a special place in her heart from this time, showing her appreciation for music in pivotal moments of life.
- Contemplating the Future: Although she avoids discussing traditional funerals, she emphasizes the importance of living in the moment and cherishing memories rather than dwelling on loss.
Eve’s journey from being a young girl in Philadelphia to becoming a renowned figure in the music industry encapsulates the tenacity and strength she embodies.
The Release of Who’s That Girl?
Set for release on September 26, Who’s That Girl?* promises to be as engaging as Eve herself. Fans and newcomers alike will find her narrative relatable and filled with valuable insights about life, music, and the pursuit of dreams.
As Eve reflects on her past, she reveals how music has been a constant throughout her journey. With her unique blend of humor and honesty, she invites readers to join her on a ride through the highs and lows of her experiences in the spotlight.
Eve’s story shows us that being successful isn’t just about being well-known. It’s also about growing as a person and discovering who you really are, even when there’s a lot going on around you.
