FEW ARTISTS HAVE TURNED A viral moment INTO A multidimensional‍ ‍career AS SEAMLESSLY AS RAPPER Saweetie.

Since breaking out with her 2017 hit Icy Grl, the Bay Area native has evolved from internet sensation to artist and entrepreneur, building a brand that extends far beyond music. In recent years, she has expanded her reach with acting roles, high-profile beauty and fashion partnerships, and the launch of her initiative, Icy University, a platform teaching young women how to level up.

Now, as she prepares to release her long-awaited debut album, Saweetie is entering what she describes as a more intentional and vulnerable chapter—one rooted in authenticity, balance, and trusting her instincts. Read more about Saweetie’s journey in the C&C 100 interview below.

Did you always know you wanted to be an artist, or did this path find you?

As an introverted child, writing poetry became my outlet for self-expression. Through poetry, I was able to release the emotions and energy I was experiencing internally. Once I realized I could channel that same vulnerability and storytelling through music, I knew it was more than a passion… it was my purpose. Even while studying at San Diego State University & University of Southern California I always knew I would eventually end up on a stage.

When you were first starting out, was there ever a moment where you felt unseen while pursuing this career? What kept you going in those uncertain times?

When I couldn’t afford studio time, I had to get creative. Instead of seeing it as a setback, I saw it as an opportunity to put my music online and build directly with people. Through the raps I shared, I slowly started building a fan base. There’s something really special about the people who believe in you during the earliest stages of your journey. They get to witness the evolution in real time; almost like watching an artist grow up through the spirit of creation.

When presented with an opportunity (whether it’s a collaboration or brand deal), how important is it for you to follow your gut? And did that instinct come naturally to you or did it have to be developed over time?

That instinct definitely developed over time. Now, I’m very intentional about the collaborations I choose because I have to genuinely connect to what I’m doing. If I don’t believe in it, people can feel that. Authenticity matters to me, and anything forced ends up feeling like a false advertisement.

You graduated from University of Southern California with a communications degree and a strong GPA. What career would you have pursued if you didn’t become a rapper?

The same level of preparation I would put into a term paper or research project is how I approach a music video, photoshoot, or creative campaign today. Especially in this next chapter of my career, everything has to have intention behind it. There needs to be a strong thesis: Why am I doing this? What is the message? What is the audience meant to feel? That mindset has stayed with me.

“I’ve learned there’s real value in balance: protecting your mental, physical, and spiritual health is essential if you want longevity.”

You’ve described having a very disciplined upbringing. How did that shape your day-to-day work now?

Working hard comes naturally to me because that’s the environment I was raised in. But over time, I’ve also learned the importance of working smarter, not just harder. Hustle culture can be motivating, but it can also lead to burnout if you’re not careful. And when you’re burnt out, you can’t perform at your highest level creatively, mentally, or emotionally. I’ve learned there’s real value in balance: protecting your mental, physical, and spiritual health is essential if you want longevity.

What would “Icy University” look like if you were designing a real-world curriculum for young women today?

Honestly, the first thing that comes to mind is holistic health and self-care education. I think a lot of the messaging around women’s health and beauty can be backwards because so many products and habits we normalize aren’t actually healthy for us. Business and ambition are important, but if your body and mind aren’t healthy, it’s hard to sustain success. I’d want the foundation of “Icy University” to focus on wellness, self-worth, and day-to-day life skills before expanding into business and career development.

Your last studio album was released in 2021. Is a new album in the works, and if so, what can we expect from the feel and sound?

I’ve never released an album before. This will be my first time truly allowing myself to do that through music. Because of that, I’ve approached this body of work with a completely different level of care, honesty, and intention. It still feels confident and elevated, but there’s also more depth, vulnerability, and self-reflection woven into it

What’s a project or moment you’re especially proud of—and why?

Icy Grl. I’m proud of the girl who wrote it, had the courage to post it, and honored the promise she made to her younger self about pursuing a dream that eventually became reality.

When the cameras turn off and you’re wrapped for the day, what’s your favorite way to unwind?

FOOD. Give me a pasta with a heavy creamy sauce or a seafood boil, put on some good music, and I’m happy. Those simple moments help me slow down and recharge.

You’ve accomplished so much as a rapper and actress. What’s a dream that’s still on your vision board?

Conquering myself. I think perfectionism has held me back in certain ways creatively. I want to fully surrender to the art, trust my instincts more, and allow people to see what’s truly in my heart without overthinking it.