The transformation was inspired by Flavor Flav’s sponsorship of the U.S. Women’s Olympic Water Polo Team.
Chuck D, Flavor Flav, of Public Enemy performs onstage at the 2023 iHeartRadio Music Festival at the T-Mobile Arena on September 23, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Gilbert Flores/Variety
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Nearly three decades later, Public Enemy has transformed its “He Got Game” soundtrack staple into a women’s empowerment anthem.
“She Got Game” arrived Wednesday (Feb. 4) with a moving opening from feminist leader Gloria Steinem’s Address to the Women of America speech.
Women power all aspects of the track with features from hooper-turned-rapper Flau’Jae, Retina MC, Cindy Blackman Santana on the drums, Olympic medalist Elizabeth Beisel handling the strings and Grace Bowers jamming on the guitar.
Proceeds from the girl power track will benefit the Women’s Sports Foundation and Black Music Action Coalition’s Female Fund.
The process for flipping “He Got Game” into the female perspective came when Flavor Flav came on board as a sponsor for the U.S. Women’s Olympic Water Polo Team in 2024.
He has continued to be outspoken in his support of Team USA’s women heading into the 2026 Winter Olympics, which kicks off in Northern Italy with the Opening Ceremony set for Friday (Feb. 6).
Public enemy Flips 1998’s ‘He Got Game’ Into Women’s Empowerment anthem ‘She Got Game’ Featuring Flau’Jae
The Evolution of a Hip-Hop Classic: From “He Got Game” to “she Got Game”
In an inspiring and bold move, legendary hip-hop group Public Enemy has reimagined their 1998 track “He Got Game” into an equally compelling track titled “She Got Game”. Featuring the young, dynamic female rapper Flau’Jae, this new rendition transforms the original sports-themed anthem into a powerful women’s empowerment anthem. This reinvention not only pays homage to the legacy of the original but also highlights the evolving landscape of hip-hop where women rappers take center stage.
Background of the Original: “he Got Game” (1998)
“He Got Game” was originally created as a soundtrack for Spike Lee’s 1998 basketball-themed film of the same name. The song emphasized perseverance,ambition,and the social challenges faced by young Black men thru the lens of basketball. Public Enemy’s distinctive aggressive delivery and thought-provoking lyrics made “He Got Game” a memorable and impactful moment in hip-hop history.
Key Features of “He Got Game”
- Focus on male athletic ambition intertwined wiht social issues.
- Strong collaboration with Spike Lee’s cinematic vision.
- Hard-hitting beats with a blend of classic Public Enemy production style.
- A reflection of 1990s hip-hop culture and its message of resilience.
‘She Got Game’: A New Voice of Empowerment Featuring Flau’Jae
The newly released “she Got Game” spotlights female empowerment by flipping the narrative - shifting focus from male to female empowerment. Flau’Jae, an emerging artist known for her confident lyrical style and dynamic stage presence, breathes fresh energy into the track.
About Flau’Jae
Flau’Jae is a trailblazing female rapper and singer who has gained recognition for her inspiring and authentic approach to hip-hop. She embodies the spirit of contemporary women in rap – fearless, talented, and socially conscious. Her participation in “She Got Game” symbolizes the bridging of generational gaps and the elevation of women’s voices in a traditionally male-dominated art form.
Breaking Down The Message of “She got Game”
“She Got Game” redefines what it means to be a woman in today’s society, combining themes of self-confidence, resilience, and social activism. The song tackles obstacles women face, advocates for equality, and celebrates success against the odds.
Empowering Themes in “She Got Game”
- Female strength and independence.
- Overcoming systemic barriers through passion and perseverance.
- The importance of mentorship and sisterhood.
- Reclaiming space in hip-hop culture and beyond.
Musicality and Production
True to Public Enemy’s roots, the production of “She got Game” combines powerful beats with socially charged lyrics. The song features a modernized production style that appeals to both old-school hip-hop fans and a younger generation accustomed to contemporary sounds.
| Feature | “He Got Game” (1998) | “She Got Game” (2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Lead Artist | Public enemy | Public Enemy ft. Flau’Jae |
| Theme | Male athletic and social struggle | Women’s empowerment and equality |
| Lyrical Style | Assertive, confrontational | Confident, inspiring |
| Production | Classic late 90’s hip-hop beats | Modern beats with a nostalgic edge |
| Audience | Male youth, hip-hop community | Women, younger generation, social activists |
Impact on Women in hip-Hop
The release of “She Got game” marks an important cultural milestone by recognizing and amplifying women’s voices within hip-hop. It challenges longstanding gender norms and encourages upcoming female artists to embrace their power.
How “She Got Game” Supports Women’s Empowerment in Hip-Hop
- Invites more women to join and shape hip-hop culture.
- Promotes positive role models like Flau’Jae to young listeners.
- Offers a platform for discussion about gender equality.
- Revitalizes Public Enemy’s legacy through inclusion and innovation.
Practical Benefits of “She Got Game” for Listeners and artists
- For listeners: Inspirational lyrics that boost self-confidence and promote awareness of women’s issues.
- For emerging artists: Demonstrates the power of collaboration across generations and gender lines.
- For educators and activists: A useful tool to discuss gender, music, and social change.
Case Study: The Rise of Flau’Jae Through “She Got Game”
Flau’Jae’s involvement in the track has considerably raised her profile in the music industry,illustrating how veteran artists can uplift new talent while reinforcing important social messages. Her blend of soulful rap and street-smart lyricism has attracted both hip-hop purists and mainstream audiences alike.
Flau’Jae’s Journey Highlights
- Her authentic storytelling resonates with diverse audiences.
- The collaboration with Public Enemy has opened doors to wider platforms.
- Her music continually pushes boundaries and encourages female empowerment.
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- Flau’Jae female rapper rise
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“Yeah boy, she in a league of her own/ three-point clutch, she in a zone/ I got the clocks so I got the time, she got game, so she gets to shine/ In a world full of queens, be a king,” Flav raps.
The Public Enemy rapper is bringing his clocks to Milan, where he’ll serve as the hype man for the women of Team USA Bobsled and Skeleton. “The partnership is a blessing. It’s cooler than Cool Runnings,” Flav said in reference to the 1993 sports comedy in October. “It’s Coolest Runnings.”
Directed by Spike Lee, He Got Game arrived in April 1998, starring Denzel Washington. An accompanying soundtrack album from Public Enemy was released alongside the movie by Def Jam, which peaked at No. 26 on the Billboard 200.
Listen to “She Got Game” below.
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