This story is part of our new Hip-Hop: ’73 Till Infinity series, a celebration of the genre’s 50th anniversary.
We all know that Hip Hop would not be as popular as it is today without the ladies. As we celebrate five decades of the genre, The Root wanted to introduce you to the best female MCs out here, right now.
Artists such as Megan Thee Stallion, Doja Cat, Cardi B and Latto are among the biggest rappers in the world, but there are plenty more women who are ready to cement their spot in the game as well.
Many of the women on this list were inspired by Nicki Minaj. She’s the most successful female MC of all time and I don’t think she’s done yet. She recently dropped her much-anticipated fifth studio album, “Pink Friday 2,” and it’s been met with excitement from longtime fans. Nicki is here to stay.
Megan Thee Stallion is the heir to Nicki Minaj’s throne. The Houston rapper has grown in front of our eyes and has enjoyed tremendous success ever since she released her 2018 mixtape, “Tina Snow.”
Cardi B is in a position few thought she would be at. Originally gaining notoriety for being a reality TV star, Cardi has become one of the biggest rappers in the world. The only lady on this list who has won a Grammy for Best Rap Album. Cardi B continues to grow.
Many may consider Doja Cat a pop star now. But when she first broke into the industry, she was a rapper. The multi-talented Doja is funny, entertaining, fashionable and makes incredible music. She has a legitimate opportunity to be one of the biggest artists in the world.
The young Bronx Star is one of the hottest rappers in the games. Thanks to social media, she had a slew of hit records in 2022 including, “Munch (Feelin’ U),” “In Ha Mood” and “Bikini Bottom.” In 2023, her collab with British singer PinkPantheress, “Boy’s a Liar Pt.2,” brought the Bronx MC her first entry on the Billboard Hot 100.
These two ladies ran the summer of 2018 with their now classic record, “Act Up.” It could be heard everywhere that ladies wanted to turn up. The Miami duo continues to enjoy success and most recently dropped their second studio album, “City On Lock,” in 2020.
This young Memphis has had a meteoric rise in the last year, thanks to her two hit singles, “F.N.F.” and “Tomorrow 2.” The stage has only gotten bigger for the young artist as she performed at the 2023 Grammys along with many other legends to pay homage to the 50th anniversary of hip-hop.
Although Latto is enjoying success now, it hasn’t been easy. She first gained notoriety because of her appearance on the reality TV show The Rap Game in 2016. Since then, she’s been hard at work and recently released her most popular work to date in 2022, “777.” The album featured her smash hit, “Big Energy.”
Few artists make it out of Alabama, Flo Mili is one of them. Flo is a clever and exciting rapper who always brings energy whether you’re hearing her live or listening through your headphones.
Rico Nasty is one of the most eclectic rap artists out currently. She always brings energy to every song she hops on. Known for creating “rap rock,” Rico has an aggressive style that may not appeal to everyone. But, she’s still an artist who deserves her respect as an MC
Little Simz has a legitimate argument for being the best rap artist in the world. No joke. Her latest album, “NO THANK YOU,” was one of the best albums of 2022 and she continues to create new, thought-provoking hip-hop. This British MC is not going anywhere.
I know she’s a controversial figure, but Azealia Banks has been a trailblazer for female rappers in the industry. She just doesn’t care what anybody has to say, and her music reflects that.
Doechii is unique. Although she’s labeled as a hip-hop artist, I almost feel like that boxes her in. She’s a young artist who hasn’t even released her debut studio album. But with the help of TDE, I’m sure her anticipated album will be worth the wait.
If you haven’t checked out Chika’s music, you need to. She’s a talented MC who takes the creation of her music very seriously. Listen to her 2020 project, INDUSTRY GAMES, and you’ll know what I’m talking about.
Rapsody is a veteran of the rap game. She’s been releasing projects since 2010 and has only received her just-due in the past few years. Every album she releases is well thought out and made with purpose. Her 2019 album, “Eve,” is one of the most well-made albums I’ve ever heard and has an incredible concept to it. Take a listen to her latest single, “Asteroids.”
The daughter of Dionne Faris, Baby Tate took on her mother’s ear for music but decided to pursue a music career in a different genre. She’s a talented young MC who still has time to grow and experiment with her music.
Originally gaining fame for appearing on the reality TV show Sisterhood of Hip Hop, Bia has now grown into an artist who can stand on her own. She enjoyed her first record in 2021 thanks to social media for the single, “WHOLE LOTTA MONEY.” The song got even bigger after Nicki Minaj appeared on the remix.
We have to include the experimental rappers on this list. Princess Nokia loves to chances in her music which has led to her gaining a strong and loyal fanbase. This Brooklyn-born MC is always trying new things which has led to some unique songs in her catalog.
This young Texas MC has not even put out a full-length album yet, but she’s on this because she can rap just about as well as anyone on this list. Listen to her feature on Maxo Kream’s “CEE CEE” and you’ll agree.
Che Noir is the hardest rapper on this list. No question. Born and raised in Buffalo, N.Y., Che is a lyricist that is incredibly vivid and descriptive in her music. She paints a picture of the environment she grew up in and drops the listener into a new grimy and gritty world, that reveals pockets of hope, love and family.
Don’t play with it! The Brooklyn-born MC is a ball of energy who continues to grow as an artist and performer. She recently released her debut studio album, “Dennis Daughter,” in November 2023.
Although she only has one studio album (and a trio of EPs), Tierra Whack has established her spot in the culture. She’s extremely creative and uses her music to cover unique topics.
Haven’t heard of Sa-Roc? Please tap in. She’s an underrated MC who is as talented a lyricist as any on this list. If you feel like you’re missing out, she has ten studio albums to catch you up.
Leikeli47 is a mysterious MC who has recently made waves in the industry. While talented, she has plenty of room to grow. Don’t be surprised if she blows up within the next few years.
