Born and raised in Richmond, VA, Shaun Nicole, also known as Buttas, made her mark in Hip Hop as a sharp-tongued emcee with a commanding presence. She emerged in the ‘80s golden era, signed to 438 Entertainment under the wing of Brian Trent and Fro Organix, sharing management with R&B legend D’Angelo. Her single “Snake Eyes” and debut album “The Forgotten MC” hit vinyl, radio, and international turntables with staying power.
After turning down a major deal due to creative control concerns, she transitioned into artist management and music business education, graduating from the Institute of Audio Research (NYC). Her most notable work, “2 Turntables & A Mic Show,” fuses performance, education, and culture, featuring guests like MC Shan, Silk, and Gerald Levert Jr., with episodes filmed in Richmond and Atlanta.
She released a documentary titled, “Forgotten MC”, produced and filmed by Fro Organix Films, in 2024. It debuted at the historic Byrd Theater in Richmond Va. The film documents her struggles and triumphs, addiction and recovery, and her return to purpose.
Today she has a Radio Show called “Buttas & Kush Radio which airs on WRBX Boombox. She also continues to release music and perform.
Today, Shaun Nicole is a multifaceted force—a true bridge between Hip Hop’s legacy and its future.
Career Highlights
Former artist under 438 Entertainment alongside D’Angelo
Placed 3rd at BET’s Rap Sheets Emcee Battle (32 competitors)
Released vinyl single “Snake Eyes”, with global DJ play
Creator & Executive Producer of 2 Turntables & A Mic Show
Partnered with VH1 for TV development
Graduate of Institute of Audio Research, NYC
Worked with artists such as MC Shan, Silk, Gerald Levert Jr.
Documentary Release, 2024