During his visit to the R&B Money podcast, Jermaine Dupri shared an obstacle he encountered in launching ‘90s R&B titan Xscape, and it has nothing to do with their voices. Dupri was blunt; Xscape never took off because of a lack of talent; it was their looks. “They just kept telling me they weren’t cute,” he said, shaking his head disapprovingly at the dismissive way executives from that era greeted even undeniable vocal firepower. It broadsided him, a wake-up call to the naked fact that marketing beats merit most of the time.

Even for one of the most vocally gifted female groups of their era, Xscape faced an industry that was more focused on image than artistry. The criticism wasn’t subtle. Even The Notorious B.I.G. dissed them in one of his lyrics words that stung in a culture where beauty was currency, and women who didn’t fit a narrow definition were often relegated to the sidelines. But Dupri wasn’t having it. He then doubled down on his faith in Xscape, championing their talent when almost no one else would. His gamble paid off chart-toppers like “Just Kickin’ It” and “Who Can I Run To” didn’t only reach No. 1 on the charts, they solidified Xscape as gods of R&B’s golden age.

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This isn’t just a reflection on Xscape’s journey, it’s a commentary on the battles many female artists still face. Dupri’s candor is a reminder that behind every platinum plaque, there’s often a quiet battle with industry bias. In essence, the story of Xscape is one of defiance, perseverance, and the realization that real talent doesn’t need a filter. And thanks to Jermaine Dupri’s vision and refusal to conform, they didn’t just break through, they changed the game. And sometimes, they come wrapped in the truth the industry prefers not to hear.

Recognized for her fierce performances, striking beauty, and blunt honesty, Zendaya opened up to fans for a rare behind-the-scenes look into her life in a candid forwarded interview for the May 2024 issue of Vogue. In a frank interview, she discussed the emotional challenges of being famous, her relationship with fellow actor Tom Holland, and her changing plans for the future, including wanting to start a family one day.

Fame has been a double-edged sword for Zendaya. On the one hand, it’s given her a platform, it’s given her influence, it’s given her the ability to turn her artistic interests into something that she can pursue. On the other, that’s left her open to a level of public criticism that can be as overwhelming as it is isolating. Looking back on her rise to stardom at such a young age, Zendaya admitted that, though she has become healthier and more comfortable with fame over the years, it was not without its emotional cost.

On some days, she said, the scrutiny of being eternally monitored can seem crushing. The cameras and public commentary have rendered even the most ordinary aspects of life performative, from red carpets to coffee runs. For Zendaya, fashion has served a particular purpose in helping her through these experiences.

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This relationship of protectiveness with fashion has provided her with a way of managing her public image and sense of self. By wearing daring outfits, she has turned control in an environment that generally degrades celebrities until they become weakened versions of themselves, their individuality erased by a culture of personal brand management. From appearances at the Met Gala to speaking out on behalf of social causes, Zendaya manifests her identity through style, a form of empowerment and self-expression.

Speaking of love, Zendaya had similar reflections. And then there’s her relationship with actor Tom Holland, which has fans worldwide in a fuss not simply for their chemistry on-screen but also for their low-key approach to discussing their off-screen romance. The couple has long kept their relationship details close to the vest, but Zendaya spoke frankly about their relationship in this interview.

Zendaya explained that their bond is rooted in profound trust and mutual respect and that they’ve fought to raise a strong foundation outside of fame. She smiled when speaking about the future, noting that she and Holland are ambitious to start a family one day.

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“We speak about it a lot,” she said. “We’re definitely of the same accord. But we’re also mindful of the variables in raising children in the public eye.” Zendaya’s upbringing in the entertainment business has provided her insight into young stars’ pressures. She said she was frightened by what the fame could do to future children she might have, adding that it’s something that gives her pause.

Still, Zendaya remains hopeful about the future, with a clear intention. She’s not hurrying, but she is making progress. Taking on new roles, stepping behind the camera, and, eventually, embracing motherhood, she’s focused on creating a life that reflects her values. Zendaya’s interview showed a woman who, amid her fame, is carving out space for authenticity and love in a world that hardly makes space for either. Her vulnerability, tempered by her strength, creates the portrait of a star who is respected for her humanity.