If you’re not totally well-versed in the history of hip hop group, Salt-N-Pepa, there’s a high chance that you’ll think that the group was always a dynamic duo.
And that’s where you’re wrong.
Once upon a time, the group was once a trio, featuring Cheryl James (Salt), Sandra Denton (Pepa) as well as Deidra Roper, also known as DJ Spinderella.
Although Roper is an often forgotten member of the group, she was no doubt an imperative member one. Then in 2019, she received a termination letter via email, legally notifying her that she was being cut from the band.
Now, the latest news from the group comes as a result of their eponymous biopic, Salt-N-Pepa which aired in the US yesterday.
As reported by Forbes, the biopic documents the story of how Cheryl James (Salt) and Sandra Denton (Pepa) – a couple of Queensborough Community College students worked to make waves in the music industry within the realms of hip hop and rap.
Thanks to Roper’s recent Instagram message to her fans, she made it clear that she wasn’t involved in any part of the film’s production or development. And she seems anything but surprised.
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She wrote, “Too often, Black women who have made meaningful contributions in their industry are left out of historical narratives. Back when Salt n’ Pepa was building our legacy, which is rooted in empowering women, I could not have dreamed that this same group would one day disempower me.”
“Words cannot fully express my disappointment when I learned a decision was made to move forward with a Lifetime biopic that wrongfully excluded me from every aspect of development and production…all the while using my image throughout, given that I played an integral role in the group’s story and success.”
She added, “There’s nothing more unacceptable than a woman being silenced by another woman. It is for this reason, I will not be supporting the biopic. I do, however, want to offer a huge congratulations to the talented actresses that represented us, including Monique Paul, who I wish would’ve been given an opportunity to share my true perspective with.”
“In reflection, I’m grateful I’ve managed to uphold a 30-year career of truly empowering women with my gift, against all odds. This will continue in my work and in my service.”
To conclude, Roper does her best to remain positive and announces that she’s in the final stages of writing her own memoir which is due to be released soon.
Check out this video of DJ Spinderella performing with Salt-N-Pepa.
