Female rappers have played a vital role in shaping the landscape of hip-hop and rap music. They bring their unique perspectives, lyrical prowess, and unapologetic voices to the genre. From trailblazers who paved the way to contemporary artists breaking new ground, female rappers have made significant contributions to the world of music.
Artists like MC Lyte, Queen Latifah, and Salt-N-Pepa emerged in the 1980s, using their music to empower and inspire. They addressed social issues, advocated for women’s rights, and demonstrated that rap was a platform for all voices.
The 1990s saw the rise of iconic figures like Missy Elliott, Lauryn Hill, and Lil’ Kim. Missy Elliott’s innovative production and boundary-pushing music videos revolutionized the genre, while Lauryn Hill’s album “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill” remains a landmark in hip-hop history. Lil’ Kim’s unapologetic sexuality challenged stereotypes and helped redefine female empowerment in rap.
In recent years, artists like Nicki Minaj, Cardi B, and Megan Thee Stallion have dominated the charts and shattered records. They bring a bold and unfiltered approach to their music, unapologetically expressing themselves and addressing a wide range of topics.
These female rappers, among many others, have proven that hip-hop is a space for diverse voices and experiences. They continue to push boundaries, challenge stereotypes, and inspire a new generation of artists and fans. Their impact on the genre is immense, and their contributions to music and culture are celebrated worldwide.
1. Missy Elliott
Missy Elliott is a female rap powerhouse, renowned for her exceptional talent and one-of-a-kind style. Her impact on the rap industry is undeniable!
She revolutionized music videos with her boundary-pushing creativity and merged genres like R&B and Hip-Hop to create a signature sound. Her powerful lyrics and delivery have won her a legion of fans and admiration from fellow artists.
Not only does Missy Elliott rap and write songs, she's also an esteemed producer. She has collaborated with some of the biggest names in the business, leaving a lasting impression on the music world.
A look back at Missy Elliott's career reveals her beginnings in the R&B group Sista, before she stepped out on her own. Her debut album, 'Supa Dupa Fly' (1997) was met with critical acclaim, and since then she's continued to break barriers with her inventive approach to music. Missy Elliott is an enduring icon of rap culture.
2. Lauryn Hill
Lauryn Hill, a renowned female rapper, has left an unforgettable impression on the music industry. Her unique style and powerful lyrics have made her one of the greatest artists ever.
Let us explore some facts about Lauryn Hill.
- Birth Name: Lauryn Noelle Hill
- Birth Date: May 26, 1975
- Origin: South Orange, New Jersey, U.S.
- Main Music Genre: Hip Hop / R&B / Neo Soul
- Main Albums: The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill (1998), Mt. Unplugged No.2.0 (2002), Ms. Hill (unreleased album), The Score (1996) with The Fugees.
Queen Latifah, the real queen of rap, raps with such ferocity that it can light up any stage and crumble the patriarchy.
3. Queen Latifah
Queen Latifah is a legendary name in the rap scene. She's known for her one-of-a-kind style and empowering lyrics. Let's explore her amazing journey!
Birth: March 18, 1970
Origin: Newark, New Jersey
Albums:
- All Hail the Queen
- Nature of a Sista'
- Black Reign
Hits:
- U.N.I.T.Y.
- Ladies First
- Just Another Day…
She also works hard to help causes, like empowering women. She's highly respected for this.
Queen Latifah's powerful influence on hip-hop is undeniable. Songs like "U.N.I.T.Y." tackle social issues and encourage gender equality. She inspired a lot of female artists breaking into the male-dominated rap scene. Her legacy lives on!
Queen Latifah's impact on rap music and society is undeniable. Her talent, activism, and trailblazing spirit make her an icon among female rappers. Move over Barbie, Lil' Kim's got more bite than a Chihuahua on steroids!
4. Lil' Kim
Lil' Kim, ranked at #4, is a legendary female rapper. Her style, lyrics, and iconic fashion have made her one of the best rappers ever. Kimberly Denise Jones was born on July 11, 1974, in Brooklyn, New York City. Her debut album, "Hard Core," released in 1996, showed her raw talent and fierce lyrics. Popular songs by Lil' Kim include "Crush On You," "Not Tonight," and "Lady Marmalade."
Lil' Kim has broken barriers for women in hip-hop. Her bold and unapologetic persona has challenged societal norms. Her fashion sense has left a lasting mark on the industry.
Listen to Lil' Kim's discography to appreciate her contributions to rap culture and women empowerment in the music world. Nicki Minaj has so many alter egos – it's like she's running a psychiatric ward while dropping sick beats!
5. Nicki Minaj
Nicki Minaj is a renowned female rapper, making an undeniable impact on the music industry. She's known for her unique style, captivating lyrics and versatile flow. Let's explore her amazing journey.
We can analyze Nicki Minaj's success with these stats and accolades:
| Category | Nicki Minaj |
|---|---|
| Debut Album | "Pink Friday" (2010) |
| Record Sales | Over 100 million worldwide |
| Billboard Hot 100 | First female artist with 107 entries |
| Awards | Multiple Grammy nominations |
| Collaborations | Notable collaborations with artists |
Nicki Minaj stands out with her ability to switch between musical styles like pop, hip-hop and R&B. Her unapologetic lyrics and empowering messages push boundaries.
She's also evolved as an artist. She's reinvented herself while maintaining a strong fan base. This dedication to personal growth and exploration exemplifies her commitment to breaking down genre barriers.
Nicki Minaj is also involved in philanthropic efforts. She supports education and disaster relief, using her platform to make a positive impact.
An example of her infectious energy and charisma came during a live performance. She connected with the audience in a profound way, creating an electrifying atmosphere full of excitement and joy.
6. Eve
Eve, also known as Eve Jihan Jeffers-Cooper, is a renowned rapper and songwriter from Philadelphia. In the late 1990s, she made a huge splash in the hip-hop scene with her unique style and extraordinary lyrics.
| Born | November 10, 1978 |
| Origin | Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S. |
| Genre | Hip hop |
| Main Achievements | – Grammy Award for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration (2002) – Billboard Music Award for Top R&B/Hip-Hop Female Artist (2001) |
Eve has released smashing albums like "Let There Be Eve…Ruff Ryders' First Lady" and "Scorpion," displaying her dynamic flow and her capability to address both personal and societal matters. Her hits such as "Who's That Girl?" and "Let Me Blow Ya Mind" featuring Gwen Stefani topped the charts and cemented her as one of the greatest female rappers ever.
Not only music, in addition she has also ventured into acting with parts in movies like "Barbershop" and her own TV series, "Eve." These successes further demonstrate her versatility as an artist.
If you haven't already submerged yourself in Eve's incredible discography, it's time to do so. Don't miss the chance to experience the talent and influence of this amazing female rapper, who continues to leave an indelible mark on the hip-hop industry. Ready to get your eardrums rocked? Foxy Brown will unleash blazing rhymes that leave you asking if she ate hot sauce for breakfast.
7. Foxy Brown
Foxy Brown, an influential female rapper, holds her own in the rap industry. Her unique style and lyrical capability has earned her a place as one of the greatest female rappers ever!
Look at Foxy Brown's accomplishments:
| Born | September 6, 1978 |
| Albums | 'Ill Na Na', 'Chyna Doll', 'Broken Silence' |
| Awards | BET Hip Hop Award for Best Female Hip Hop Artist |
In addition to these, Foxy Brown made a mark with her first album 'Ill Na Na', featuring collaborations with stars such as Jay-Z and Blackstreet. She broke through as one of the first female rappers to gain widespread fame and became an inspiration to many upcoming artists.
To further solidify her legacy as a top artist, here are some tips:
- Team up with modern rappers: Working with popular artists in the rap industry will help Foxy Brown reach new audiences and stay relevant in the music business.
- Make a biographical documentary: A documentary about Foxy Brown's life story and struggles will fascinate fans and also highlight the difficulties faced by female rappers.
- Mentor young female rappers: By using her influence and experience, Foxy Brown can pass on wisdom to young female rappers and help them succeed in the competitive hip-hop world.
These ideas work as they take advantage of Foxy Brown's existing fanbase while gaining the attention of new listeners. Collaborations bring together different generations and introduce her music to younger crowds. A biographical documentary provides an intimate perspective of her art and the challenges she faced in the industry. And mentoring young female rappers gives Foxy Brown a chance to impart her knowledge and empower the next generation of talent.
Salt-N-Pepa, serving up rhymes hotter than a jalapeño, proving that female rappers can be just as fire as their male counterparts!
8. Salt-N-Pepa
Salt-N-Pepa – an iconic female rap group – have made an indelible impression on the music industry. They've earned a place among the best female rappers with their pioneering contributions and empowering lyrics.
Let's explore their talent and success. Here's a look at their albums, top songs and achievements:
Albums:
- Hot, Cool & Vicious (1986)
- A Salt with a Deadly Pepa (1988)
- Blacks' Magic (1990)
- Very Necessary (1993)
- Brand New (1997)
Top Songs:
- "Push It" (1987)
- "Shoop" (1993)
- "Whatta Man" ft. En Vogue (1993)
- "None of Your Business" (1993)
Achievements:
- Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group ("None of Your Business", 1995)
- First female rap act to achieve Gold and Platinum status
- Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2021
Salt-N-Pepa also used their music to challenge societal norms. They spoke about topics like sexuality and independence, encouraging women to take charge in the male-dominated rap genre.
Don't miss out on celebrating this trailblazing rap group. Their impactful music continues to inspire people to break barriers and embrace themselves. MC Lyte, the Queen of Hip Hop, spits rhymes so fierce they could turn a kitten into a tiger. Join us in saluting Salt-N-Pepa and their reign in the rap industry!
9. MC Lyte
MC Lyte is a true pioneer in the female rap game. With her talent and meaningful lyrics, she's left a long-lasting mark on the industry. Let's take a look at her 50 years of success: from Brooklyn, New York, she has 8 studio albums under her belt, and she's won awards like the BET Lifetime Achievement Award and VH1 Hip-Hop Honors "I Am Hip-Hop" Icon Award.
She was also the first female rapper to drop a full-length solo album — 1988's "Lyte as a Rock" — and her voice and style embodied female empowerment.
If you want to get into MC Lyte's music, try out her debut album "Lyte as a Rock." It's a great place to start, and it showcases her lyrical abilities. Or, if you want something more recent, check out "Still Standing," which proves that she's still relevant and evolving as an artist.
MC Lyte's discography, with its bold storytelling and captivating flow, helps explain why she's considered one of the greatest female rappers of all time. Cardi B has also shown us that you can go from 'shmoney' to 'money moves' and still create unforgettable beats!
10. Cardi B
Cardi B is a rap goddess! She's known for her chart-topping hits and her bold lyrics. Her debut single, "Bodak Yellow," made waves and earned her much praise.
Since then, she's been on fire. Cardi has the versatility to switch between rap and pop genres. Plus, she's unapologetically authentic. Her realness resonates with fans who appreciate her honesty.
Her work ethic is impressive too. She always gives her best performance – whether it's through music videos or live shows. Cardi B is truly one of the best female rappers of all time.
Pro Tip: Take a page from Cardi's book! Be true to yourself and don't be afraid to take risks. Embrace your uniqueness and let it shine through in everything you do.
11. Bahamadia
Bahamadia is a legendary female rap artist, ranking 11th on the list of best female rappers of all time. Let's explore her contributions to hip-hop.
We can use a table to display her albums, tracks, and awards.
Bahamadia is known for her introspective and conscious lyrics. Her smooth delivery and laid-back style earned her respect among her peers, and a dedicated fan base.
Pro Tip: To truly appreciate Bahamadia, listen to her thought-provoking lyrics and pay attention to her unique flow. Rah Digga's fire-hot rhymes could burn down the patriarchy!
12. Rah Digga
Rah Digga, number 12 on the list of greatest female rappers, is an outstanding artist with big impacts on hip-hop. Her unique style has earned her a place in the industry.
Let's look at the facts about Rah Digga:
- Album: Dirty Harriet
- Release Year: 2000
- Record Label: Jive
- Album: Everything Is a Story
- Release Year: 2010
- Record Label: Raw Koncept
- Album: Classic
- Release Year: 2021
- Record Label: Shake-A-Path
Her music has been featured with Busta Rhymes and Talib Kweli. Her meaningful lyrics strike a chord with fans of all ages.
Pro Tip: Take some time to discover Rah Digga's music to understand her captivating rhymes better. As powerful as her bars, Jean Grae is the queen of rap with a flow that can make a stormy night seem like a light breeze.
13. Jean Grae
Jean Grae has proven herself to be one of the best female rappers of all time, with a career spanning two decades. Her lyrical prowess and storytelling abilities have solidified her place in the rap world.
Here are some key facts about Jean Grae:
- Birth Name: Tsidi Ibrahim
- Hometown: New York City, New York
- Musical Style: Conscious Hip-Hop
- Notable Collaborations: The Roots, 9th Wonder
- Notable Albums: 'Attack of the Attacking Things', 'Jeanius'
Jean Grae isn't just an amazing rapper – she's also an actress and comedian. Her multi-talented side sets her apart from other female rappers. Here are some ways she can take her career even further:
- Collaborate with diverse artists from different genres and even international acts.
- Use her platform to raise awareness for social issues.
- Experiment with production styles and explore different sounds.
These suggestions will help Jean Grae become not only one of the best female rappers of all time, but also a versatile artist whose impact goes beyond music.
14. Rapsody
Rapsody is a female rapper renowned for her lyrical genius and thought-provoking lyrics. She has become one of the most respected musicians in the hip-hop industry.
Her awards include the 2019 Soul Train Music Award for Album of the Year and the 2020 BET Awards for Best Hip Hop Video. She also won the 2017 BET Hip Hop Awards' Lyricist of the Year.
Rapsody stands out with her unique fashion sense, often seen wearing stylish and creative outfits that express her character.
In 2019, Forbes listed Rapsody as one of the top 5 hip-hop cash princes/princesses to watch. Her strong rhymes and remarkable talent demonstrate that she is not just 'funky fresh for 1994', but timeless in her flow.
15. Da Brat
Da Brat, born Shawntae Harris on April 14, 1974, has been making her mark on the rap industry since 1992. Her unique style and undeniable talent have earned her a place as one of the best female rappers of all time. She has worked with record labels like So So Def and Columbia.
Da Brat is known for her hard-hitting lyrics and fearless approach to her craft. Her debut album "Funkdafied" was released in 1994 and made history as the first platinum-selling solo female rap album.
She has earned respect for her versatility, transitioning from party anthems to storytelling tracks. Da Brat has collaborated with various esteemed artists and paved the way for future female rappers.
Explore her discography and experience the evolution of her artistry. Join the legions of fans who have been captivated by Da Brat's undeniable talent and impactful contributions to hip-hop music. Discover why she is one of the best female rappers of all time.
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.
