Audra the Rapper’s path to hip-hop was an unlikely one.

Born in Washington, D.C. and raised in Richmond, Virginia to a single mother and grandmother, Audra was forbidden to listen to rap music because of its often-violent nature and aggressive misogyny. Instead, her childhood home was filled with the sounds of jazz, soul, and R&B leading Audra to take a more musical approach to rap. Studying the styles of Tupac, Missy Elliott, and Lauryn Hill, Audra began writing poetry that later became the narrative to her raps. Battling classmates during lunch and football games, ATR began taking rap more seriously and at age 16 she released her first offering “Sweet and Sour,” which she sold in local car washes and neighborhood malls.

Since the introductory mixtape, Audra has released three other projects — most recently with her EP, Retrospectrum. She is currently gearing up to release her fifth project, a conceptual body of work titled Anti Love Songs, at the end of summer 2016. Audra’s goal is to remain honest and outspoken in the music, as well as fearless in content, touching on topics that are seemingly taboo for female artists. Described as “ratchet soul,” ATR’s sound is raw, unapologetic, and often emotional. “I simply want to make people feel. Everyone wants not to care… when in reality it’s what we need.”

Get to know Audra The Rapper in her own words:

My sound in five words or less: Soulfully Ratchet.

Best part of making this video: Best part about making this video was I made it with friends. From Lex Lewter the producer, to Carmen Dianne my makeup artist, to every musician that was in the video, I admire and respect their artistry and the way they go about their crafts so the energy on set was fun and inspiring.

What inspires your art: I am inspired by the moments that mold us into who we are. Situations where the words are the hardest to find are the ones I aim to articulate in my music.

Explain the concept of the song in one sentence: There is strength in recognizing your weakness.

Instagram, Twitter, or Snapchat? OOooo, hmm… Instagram

Soundcloud Link: https://soundcloud.com/audratherapper/sometimes-2

Watch her video on REVOLT TV the week of September 5th, and let us know your thoughts by tweeting @RevoltTV and using the hashtag #SpotlightOnREVOLT