How Female Rappers Influence The Industry
The rap music genre originated in the 1970’s at block parties in New York City. Lana Michelle Moore, also known as MC Lyte, is considered one of the pioneers of female rap music. She was born in 1970, later gaining fame in 1988. Lyte as a Rock, her first album, would become one of the first full albums released by a female rapper. MC Lyte has released a total of 13 albums.
While we watchers and listeners have seen the many triumphs of female rappers in our time as they dominate the billboards, we also need to recognize the many hardships faced as a woman in an industry traditionally dominated by men.
Missy Elliot had been in the industry for more than 20 years. She pushes the boundaries of what she does, how she dresses, and how she writes songs. Missy has sold over 30 million albums; all six of her studio albums have been certified in the US as RIAA platinum or higher. She became the first female rapper inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2019. Former President Barack Obama as well as Michelle Obama were some of the people to give her praise for her accomplishments. They were seen congratulating her over video at the ceremony.
"Thank you not for just sharing your gift with the world, but for being an advocate for so many people out there, especially young girls who are still figuring out how to make their voices heard," Michelle said according to an essence article.
Megan Thee Stallion might be a rapper more familiar to young audiences. Megan has delivered hit after hit, her songs being widely recognized for starring viral dance trends on TikTok. In 2016 she delivered her first single, “Like a Stallion”. Since then she has become popular with young audiences.
“Megan Thee Stallion is one of my favorite female rappers. She is so talented and I just love listening to her music.” Torri Gumpert, 11 said.
On March 22, 2022, the Trailblazer award was presented to Megan by Kelly Rowland. Megan took to the stage to accept the award with an inspiring speech.
“And I want to say, with my platform, I will keep on continuing to be a voice for the voiceless. I will keep on fighting for all the injustices that me, my Black women, my Black men are facing, and I will keep showing up and showing out even in the face of adversity,” Megan said.
These talented women continue to amaze us with their accomplishments. No matter how old their songs are, we continue to listen. Female rappers have influenced the genre ever since the beginning and continue to do so, making more and more strides every year.