Jean Grae

South African-born American rapper Jean Grae, born Tsidi Ibrahim in Cape Town on November 26, 1976, spent three decades in music. She started performing around age 13 and remained active from 1990 to 2020. Known for her sharp lyricism and unique style, she rose through the underground hip hop scene in New York City and built an international fanbase. Her work earned recognition from peers like Talib Kweli, Jay-Z, and Black Thought of the Roots. Jean Grae is also the child of South African jazz musicians Sathima Bea Benjamin and Abdullah Ibrahim, a lineage that informs her musical heritage. With black hair, brown eyes, and an average build, she made a lasting impact before stepping back. She is a favorite emcee among many respected rappers.