Hip hop has been called one of the only original American art forms. Celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, hip hop has changed and evolved since the early days of The Sugarhill Gang. Dominated by men in its early days, in the ‘80s and ‘90s rappers like Queen Latifah, MC Lyte, Foxxy Brown, Salt-N-Pepa and Lauryn Hill took the hip-hop scene by storm.
The 2000s and early 2010s saw a decline in female rap presence: in 2010 there were only three female rappers, including Nicki Minaj, signed to major labels. But thanks to an explosion of new female artists on the scene, today the hip hop scene is rich with women telling their stories and celebrating their successes. Drop the mic as we celebrate ten female rappers that are changing the game and moving the genre forward.
Megan Thee Stallion
Megan Thee Stallion consistently drops empowering and lyrically playful tracks: her self-confidence is contagious and makes the crowd want to dance.
Doechii
Doechii’s sound ranges from soft, mellow and feminine to harsh and abrasive. Her music captures the joys and injustices of being a Black woman.
Ice Spice
After a recent, massive spike in popularity and a declaration from Nicki Minaj that she's the next princess of rap, Ice Spice continues to make catchy and unapologetic music.
Little Simz
It’s easy to see how Little Simz’s sound has changed from her debut album through her current music, but one thing that stays consistent is her hypnotic flow.
Junglepussy
Junglepussy’s style of music pays homage to the rap pioneers—from 2Pac to Bahamadia, her spin on synth and her delicate flow make for an easy listen.
Leikeli47
With hit songs like Money and Zoom, this Brooklyn rapper, who rocks a face mask, always knows how to make memorable tunes.
Jean Deaux
Known for her mastery of multiple genres and creative mediums, Jean Deaux uses clever metaphors and alternative-influenced production to make for a unique braggadocio sound.
Rico Nasty
Few are as good as Rico Nasty when it comes to translating unbridled female rage into their tracks. Her music is a release of tension and an embracing of chaos.
Stefflon Don
British rapper and singer Stefflon Don mixes grime, which is EDM/rap from London, R'n'B and house in her tracks. She's been releasing hot new music these past few weeks, tantalizing us all for her upcoming debut album.
Flo Milli
Flo Milli always delivers self-confident bops, which helped her go viral on TikTok for her songs "Beef FloMix" and "In the Party." She’s only continued to gain fame and fans.
