In its latest tribute to the trailblazers of hip-hop, Billboard magazine – one of the most authoritative voices in the global music industry – has officially placed the Trinidadian rapper and singer Nicki Minaj at the very top of its “Best Female Rappers of All Time” list.
Released on Monday (7 April), the editorial feature celebrates women who have shaped the genre through lyrical prowess, innovation and cultural influence.
Nicki Minaj, known for her dynamic wordplay and bold persona, earned the number one spot, edging out longtime industry powerhouses like Missy Elliott, Lauryn Hill, Queen Latifah and Eve.
Though the list has been met with excitement by Nicki’s vast fanbase – often referred to as the “Barbz” – it has also stirred debate across the hip-hop community.
Many fans and observers have questioned why Missy Elliott and Lauryn Hill, both hailed as revolutionary forces in hip-hop, were not ranked higher. Missy’s genre-defying production and visual storytelling redefined hip-hop aesthetics, while Lauryn Hill’s The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill continues to be studied as a cultural milestone.
Billboard defended its rankings by citing a blend of criteria including commercial success, lyrical skill, cultural impact, creative experimentation and the longevity of an artist’s influence. The publication emphasised how each woman on the list played a critical role in the evolution of hip-hop – from the 1980s through to the digital age.
Nicki Minaj’s own journey reflects that trajectory. Since her early mixtape era and the breakout success of her 2010 debut, Pink Friday, she has cemented her place not just as a chart-topper but also as a global brand – dominating airwaves, fashion runways and social media feeds.
The complete list of Billboard’s top 25 female rappers includes both seasoned veterans and rising stars:
Top 25 female rappers of all time
- Nicki Minaj
- Missy Elliott
- Lauryn Hill
- Lil Kim
- Queen Latifah
- MC Lyte
- Salt-N-Pepa
- Roxanne Shante
- Eve
- Foxy Brown
- Cardi B
- Da Brat
- Trina
- Left Eye
- Megan Thee Stallion
- Doja Cat
- Rapsody
- Remy Ma
- Latto
- Monie Love
- GloRilla
- Lady of Rage
- Gangsta Boo
- Doechii
- Tierra Whack
The rankings serve not only as a celebration but also as a reminder of how far women in hip-hop have come – and how much further the culture continues to evolve.
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