Merely a week ago today, the beloved Cupcakke announced her retirement from rap. Her social media profiles range from stagnant to deleted and YouTube barren. The video stated her entire discography will be removed from the internet. This is either a clever ploy to run up streams or sis is going through it. Known for being a sex-positive, gregarious goddess this year has been trying on this young MC’s personal life, but flourishing for her music career. Cupcakke’s music has always been colored by blunt hyperbolic sexual fantasies and scenarios. Recently, her sound has shifted away from theatrics and delved into a more mainstream vibe with songs such as “Grilling Niggas.” Her discography has grown by leaps and bounds since signing to Pink Friday Entertainment in 2016.
A Plea to Cupcakke’s Rap Career
What is the catalyst for the abrupt change of heart? A child. Upon witnessing a child sing along to one of her more explicit songs, she feels her contributions to the culture must cease. Cupcakke held a number of all-ages performances due to her being an idol in the queer community and generally unabashed.
Hearing a femme speak about sexuality and centralizing her desires has been rather unheard of in hip-hop. Nicki Minaj, the owner of Pink Friday Entertainment, was one of the firsts to embrace this. Now femme MC’s like Saweetie, Brooke Candy and Cupcakke revolutionize the game with their shameless lyrics and style. Their male counterparts can introduce lewd motifs to normalizing the culture around sex. We don’t hear critics say “What about the children?” when it comes to this. Songs ranging from flagrant disrespect of women who agree to sleep with you, having sex with twin sisters, and a period where real abusers are starkly accepted; we need Cupcakke.
I get it. Being known for saying you want to hump Squidward’s nose is not an appealing legacy. But, Tyler the Creator ate a roach for clout and is still developing as a person. Women in hip-hop aren’t contracted into modesty by default of their gender. We live in a time where art and culture are highly accessible. We also live in a time where sex is demonized over violence, or they’re far too close. Centralizing male sexuality and desire is the norm, so why can’t women do the same? Cupcakke, you’re the unsung hero of a culture that wants more of your music. We hope a hiatus brings you peace, and for our sake, inspiration. Take care of yourself, Queen.
