Dee Barnes gained celebrity for being the first female journalist to host a broadcast television program in 1989. Now, the revered hip-hop personality has fallen on difficult times and is asking the public for help in paying her debts.
"Yes, I did post the link to my PayPal, CashApp and GooglePay accounts asking for help because I am in the process of being evicted," the former Pump it Up! host admitted on her GoFundMe page.
Barnes says the money raised from the fundraiser will go toward paying legal fees. Despite Barnes' misfortune, the journalist refuses to allow her current situation to weaken her spirit.
"Even though I am facing extreme financial hardship, I keep my head up. I know who I am, I know my worth and I know I'm not alone. Everyone is dealing with their own different struggles. Some of us less fortunate than others."
One-half of popular hip-hop duo Body and Soul, Barnes and her music partner released their debut single "Dance to the Drummer's Beat" in 1989, making Barnes a household name. Their 1990 single "We're in the Same Gang" earned them a Grammy nomination.
A year later, Barnes would find herself embroiled in controversy, and her rising career suffered as a result. Per the New York Post, rapper Dr. Dre physically assaulted her at a record release party. The "Forgot About Dre" artist was reportedly upset about a segment regarding N.W.A. that would be discussed on her series. The producer was ordered to pay a $2,500 fine and sentenced to two years probation for his acts.
Barnes opened up about that tumultuous period in an interview with HipHopDX and how the public's support back then motivated her to share her story today. She also said that she is officially homeless.
"I had never asked for public help before, but I then remembered a long time ago while I was going through the assault trial in 1991 people were sending me checks for my legal fees. I never cashed any of them — not one — but knowing I had that support kept me strong enough to continue to face each court date. Right now, I am officially homeless. My goal with the campaign is to regain stability, which is imperative for survivors of any trauma."
Barnes' GoFundMe has raised more than $14,000 of her original $5,000 goal, and the Delicious Vinyl artist thanked supporters via Twitter on Tuesday:
Emotional right now…
Thank you all ????????????????????????— Sista Dee Barnes✊???? (@sistadbarnes) March 26, 2019
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