Female rappers play a vital role in hip-hop, bringing diverse perspectives and styles to the genre. Their contributions challenge norms and expand the boundaries of rap music. With lyrical prowess and dynamic performances, they address a range of topics from personal empowerment to social justice. Female rappers often blend various musical influences, including R&B, funk, and electronic, creating innovative sounds and resonant messages. Their presence in the industry not only enriches the genre but also inspires future generations of artists. By navigating and redefining the rap landscape, female rappers continue to shape the evolution of modern music and culture.
1. Queen Latifah
Queen Latifah, born Dana Elaine Owens on March 18, 1970, is an American rapper, actress, and producer renowned for her pioneering role in hip-hop. Emerging in the late 1980s, she gained prominence with her debut album *All Hail the Queen* (1989), which showcased her commanding presence and empowering lyrics. Latifah’s music often addresses themes of female empowerment and social justice. Beyond music, she has achieved significant success in acting, with notable roles in films like *Chicago* and *Set It Off*, as well as in television with her starring role in the TV series *The Equalizer*. Her versatility and contributions to both music and entertainment have solidified her status as a multifaceted and influential figure.
2. Lauryn Hill
Lauryn Hill, born May 26, 1975, is an American singer, songwriter, rapper, and actress known for her profound impact on both hip-hop and soul music. She first gained prominence as the lead vocalist of The Fugees, contributing to their critically acclaimed album *The Score* (1996). Hill’s solo career soared with her debut album, *The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill* (1998), celebrated for its innovative fusion of R&B, hip-hop, and reggae. The album, featuring hits like “Doo Wop (That Thing)” and “Ex-Factor,” earned her multiple Grammy Awards. Known for her powerful voice, introspective lyrics, and socially conscious themes, Hill remains a highly influential artist in modern music.
3. Missy Elliott
Missy Elliott, born Melissa Arnette Elliott in 1971, is an American rapper, singer, songwriter, and producer known for her groundbreaking contributions to hip-hop and R&B. She emerged in the 1990s with a series of innovative and influential albums, including *Supa Dupa Fly*, *Miss E… So Addictive*, and *Under Construction*.
Elliott is celebrated for her creative music videos, genre-blending sound, and pioneering production work, often collaborating with Timbaland. Her hits like “Get Ur Freak On,” “Work It,” and “Lose Control” showcase her unique style, characterized by its inventive beats and catchy hooks. Missy Elliott’s impact extends beyond music, influencing fashion, music video production, and the broader pop culture landscape. She has received numerous awards, including Grammys, and remains a highly respected and influential figure in the industry.
4. Lil’ Kim
Lil’ Kim, born Kimberly Denise Jones in 1974, is an American rapper, songwriter, and actress known for her bold and influential contributions to hip-hop. Rising to prominence in the mid-1990s with her debut album *Hard Core*, she quickly became known for her provocative lyrics and distinctive style. Her follow-up albums, *The Notorious K.I.M.* and *La Bella Mafia*, solidified her status as a trailblazer in rap.
Lil’ Kim is recognized for her impact on the genre, blending raw, confident lyrics with a strong stage presence. Hits like “Crush on You,” “No Time,” and “Lady Marmalade” showcase her versatility and influence. She has been a significant figure in shaping female rap, known for her bold fashion choices and pioneering role in empowering women in hip-hop.
5. Nicki Minaj
Nicki Minaj, born Onika Tanya Maraj on December 8, 1982, is a Trinidadian-American rapper, singer, and songwriter renowned for her vibrant persona and versatile musical style. She rose to prominence with her debut album *Pink Friday* (2010), which featured the breakout hit “Super Bass.” Known for her colorful wigs, theatrical performances, and boundary-pushing lyrics, Minaj has become a major figure in contemporary hip-hop. Her subsequent albums, including *Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded* and *Queen*, solidified her position as a leading artist in the genre. Minaj’s impact extends beyond music, influencing fashion, pop culture, and social media.
6. Salt-N-Pepa
Salt-N-Pepa is an American hip-hop trio formed in 1985, consisting of Cheryl “Salt” James, Sandra “Pepa” Denton, and Deidra “DJ Spinderella” Roper. They are pioneers in the genre, known for their groundbreaking contributions to female rap. Their debut album, *Hot, Cool & Vicious*, released in 1986, featured hits like “Push It,” which became a defining track of the era.
Salt-N-Pepa are celebrated for their empowering and socially conscious lyrics, as well as their innovative approach to hip-hop. Albums such as *A Salt with a Deadly Pepa* and *Very Necessary* include a mix of upbeat tracks and introspective songs that address issues like female empowerment and sexuality. Their influence extends beyond music into fashion and popular culture, making them iconic figures in the history of hip-hop.
7. Foxy Brown
Foxy Brown, born Inga DeCarlo Fung Marchand on September 6, 1978, is an American rapper known for her bold style and commanding presence in hip-hop. Emerging in the late 1990s, she gained recognition with her debut album *Ill Na Na* (1996), featuring hits like “Get Me Home” and “I’ll Be”. Foxy Brown’s gritty lyrics and confident delivery helped establish her as a prominent female rapper of the era. Her subsequent albums, including *Chyna Doll* and *Broken Silence*, further showcased her versatility. Despite facing legal and personal challenges, Foxy Brown remains a significant figure in rap, influencing the genre with her distinctive voice and style.
8. Eve
Eve, born Eve Jihan Jeffers in 1978, is an American rapper, singer, songwriter, and actress. She gained prominence in the late 1990s and early 2000s with her distinctive voice and confident delivery. Her debut album, *Let There Be Eve…Ruff Ryders’ First Lady* (1999), was a commercial success, featuring hits like “What Ya Want” and “Gotta Man.”
Eve is known for her work with the Ruff Ryders collective and her contributions to hip-hop with albums such as *Scorpion* and *Eve*. She has received acclaim for her versatile style, which blends rap with elements of R&B and pop. Beyond music, Eve has made a name for herself in acting, with notable roles in films like *Barbershop* and the TV series *Eve*. Her impact extends across both music and entertainment, establishing her as a significant figure in contemporary culture.
9. Remy Ma
Remy Ma, born Reminisce Smith on May 30, 1980, is an American rapper known for her raw, impactful lyrics and powerful delivery. Gaining prominence with her debut album *There’s Something About Remy: Based on a True Story* (2006), she achieved critical acclaim with hits like “Conceited” and “Whateva.” As a member of Fat Joe’s Terror Squad, she contributed to the hit single “Lean Back.” Remy Ma’s career faced setbacks due to legal issues, but she made a strong comeback with the album *Plato O Plomo* (2017) and hits like “All the Way Up.” Her resilience and influential style have cemented her status in hip-hop.
10. Da Brat
Da Brat, born Shawntae Harris in 1974, is an American rapper and actress known for her distinctive style and contributions to hip-hop. She first gained recognition with her 1994 debut album *Funkdafied*, which was notable for its hit title track and marked her as the first female solo rapper to go platinum. Her follow-up albums, including *Anarchy* and *Limelite, Luv & Niteclubs*, continued to showcase her unique voice and energetic delivery.
Da Brat is celebrated for her role in pioneering female rap and her collaborations with artists like Mariah Carey on the hit single “Heartbreaker.” Beyond her music career, she has appeared in various TV shows and movies, making her a versatile figure in entertainment. Her influence and contributions to the genre have established her as a prominent and respected artist in hip-hop.
11. Trina
Trina, born Katrina Laverne Taylor on December 3, 1978, is an American rapper known for her assertive lyrics and distinctive voice. Emerging in the early 2000s, she gained prominence with her debut album *Da Baddest Bitch* (2000), featuring hits like “Pull Over” and “B R Right.” Trina’s bold and confident persona, combined with her ability to blend braggadocious lyrics with personal storytelling, has made her a prominent figure in Southern hip-hop. Known as the “Diamond Princess,” she has continued to influence the genre with subsequent albums and collaborations. Trina’s enduring career highlights her impact and resilience in the rap industry.
12. Yo-Yo
Yo-Yo, born Yolanda Whitaker in 1971, is an American rapper and actress known for her impactful contributions to hip-hop in the 1990s. Emerging from the West Coast rap scene, she gained prominence with her debut album *Make Way for the Motherlode* (1991), featuring hits like “You Can’t Play with My Yo-Yo” and “You Better Watch Out.”
Yo-Yo is recognized for her strong, assertive lyrics and her role in advocating for women in hip-hop. Her music often addresses issues such as female empowerment, social justice, and personal integrity. She has also collaborated with prominent artists like Ice Cube and Queen Latifah, further establishing her influence in the genre. Beyond music, Yo-Yo has been involved in acting and community activism, contributing to her multifaceted career and lasting impact on hip-hop culture.
13. MC Lyte
MC Lyte, born Lana Michelle Moorer on October 11, 1970, is a pioneering American rapper known for her influential role in hip-hop. Emerging in the late 1980s, she is celebrated for her clear delivery, lyrical prowess, and empowering messages. Her debut album, *Lyte as a Rock* (1988), featured iconic tracks like “Paper Thin” and “Cha Cha Cha,” establishing her as a groundbreaking female artist in a male-dominated genre. MC Lyte’s contributions to hip-hop include advocating for women’s rights and addressing social issues through her music. Her career longevity and continued influence underscore her significant impact on the evolution of rap.
14. Monie Love
Monie Love, born Simone Gooden in 1970, is a British rapper known for her contributions to hip-hop in the late 1980s and early 1990s. She first gained attention with her debut single “Monie in the Middle” and her collaboration with Queen Latifah on “Ladies First.” Her debut album, *Down to Earth* (1990), was well-received, featuring hits like “It’s a Shame (My Sister)” and showcasing her distinct lyrical style and social commentary.
Monie Love is recognized for her articulate and impactful lyrics, addressing themes such as empowerment and social issues. She has also worked as a radio host and TV personality, continuing to contribute to the music industry and popular culture beyond her rap career.
15. Jean Grae
Jean Grae, born Tsidi Ibrahim on July 26, 1976, is an American rapper, singer, and songwriter known for her intricate lyricism and versatile style. Emerging in the late 1990s, she gained acclaim with her debut album *Attack of the Attacking Things* (2002) and subsequent releases such as *The Evil Genius* (2004) and *Jeanius* (2008). Grae is celebrated for her intelligent and introspective lyrics, blending elements of hip-hop with personal and social commentary. Her work often challenges conventional themes in rap, showcasing her ability to push boundaries and innovate within the genre. Despite maintaining a lower profile compared to mainstream artists, Jean Grae’s influence and artistry are highly respected within the hip-hop community.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
