Salt-N-Pepa is an American hip hop group formed in New York City in 1985, that comprised Cheryl “Salt” James, Sandra “Pepa” Denton, and Deidra “DJ Spinderella” Roper. Their debut album, Hot, Cool & Vicious (1986), sold more than 1 million copies in the US, making them the first female rap act to achieve gold and platinum status by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
Salt-N-Pepa’s second album A Salt with a Deadly Pepa (1988), was certified gold by the RIAA. The Trio’s third album, Blacks’ Magic (1990), included hits like “Let’s Talk About Sex,” which boldly tackled topics of sexuality and safe sex — groundbreaking for the time. Other singles like “Expression” and “Do You Want Me” were major chart successes.
In 1993, they released their fourth studio album, Very Necessary, which sold more than 7 million copies worldwide (5 million of those in the U.S.), and was the highest-selling rap album by a female act (solo or group) in history at the time. The album included the hit singles “Shoop” and “Whatta Man” with En Vogue. They won the 1995 Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group for their song “None of Your Business,” making them one of the first female rap acts to win a Grammy Award. They maintained an unbroken streak of gold and platinum albums throughout their career, which extended through the 1990s with their final album of the decade, Brand New (1997).
Salt-N-Pepa were known for their bold, colorful style — leather jackets, oversized gold jewelry, and statement looks — blending hip-hop toughness with femininity. They were outspoken about gender equality, relationships, and women’s autonomy, paving the way for future artists like TLC, Missy Elliott, and Nicki Minaj.
By the late 1990s, Salt-N-Pepa had become a household name, appearing on TV shows, talk shows, and tours worldwide. They temporarily disbanded in 2002 but later reunited, continuing to perform together into the 2000s and beyond.
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