TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – Hip-hop was once mostly dominated by men. Over time, it has become a more inclusive space where women shine as talented lyricists with unique styles. This change did not happen quickly. It is thanks to some of the best female rappers who led a new era in the genre with their achievements, influence, and skill.
Billboard’s List of the Best Female Rappers of All Time
Billboard recently released a list of the best female rappers ever. They chose the artists based on their body of work, influence, longevity, lyrical skill, and flow. Here are the top 10:
1. Nicki Minaj
Nicki Minaj is widely seen as one of the greatest female rappers. She started as a backup singer but quickly gained attention with her fast, flowing rap style and bold lyrics. The Trinidad-born rapper has released many hits, including the album Pink Friday (2010), which topped the Billboard 200 chart. Songs like “Starships” and “Anaconda” are some of her biggest hits. Her Pink Friday 2 World Tour remains the highest-grossing tour for a female rapper.
2. Missy Elliott
Missy Elliott is a must-mention on any list of top female rappers. She rose to fame with her debut album Supa Dupa Fly, created with producer Timbaland. She has won four Grammy Awards and continues to be a powerful force in hip-hop today.
3. Lauryn Hill
Lauryn Hill changed hip-hop by mixing styles like jazz, funk, R&B, and pop. Her debut album, The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill (1998), went multi-platinum worldwide. Many famous rappers, such as Drake and Kendrick Lamar, credit her for inspiring their artistic freedom.
4. Lil Kim
Lil Kim is known for her bold and sexually charged lyrics. Despite a tough childhood, she gained fame with the help of her mentor and partner, the Notorious B.I.G. In the late 1990s, she became famous for her style and music. Lil Kim is also a fashion icon, especially for her look in the “Crush on You” video.
5. Queen Latifah
Queen Latifah was a strong voice for women in rap. She emerged in the late 1980s and made a big impact with her 1989 debut album All Hail the Queen. The album showed her confidence and ability to experiment with different styles, changing how women were seen in hip-hop.
6. MC Lyte
MC Lyte was the first female rapper to release a full-length album in 1988. Grammy.com called her a “living legend.” Her husky voice and powerful lyrics often addressed social issues. Her influence has lasted for many years.
7. Salt-N-Pepa
Salt-N-Pepa was one of the first all-female rap groups to succeed in the mainstream. Their unexpected hit “The Show Stoppa (Is Stupid Fresh)” helped them rise to fame. They are known for songs promoting independence and feminism, including “Push It,” “Shake Your Thang,” and “Let’s Talk About Sex.” The group has since disbanded.
8. Roxanne Shante
Roxanne Shante is a pioneer in freestyle rap and battle rap. She began rapping at age eight and became famous for her track “Roxanne’s Revenge.” She was the first female solo rapper to receive the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.
9. Eve
Eve became popular as a teenager with hits like “What Ya Want,” “Gangsta Lovin’,” and “Let Me Blow Ya Mind.” Her style combines Queen Latifah’s feminist energy with Lil Kim’s bold lyrics. Signed under the Ruff Ryders label, she quickly rose to the top with many chart-topping songs.
10. Foxy Brown
Foxy Brown is known for her smooth voice. She was discovered at age 15 and mentored by Jay-Z. Her platinum album Ill Na Na confirmed her place in the rap world.
These ten female rappers not only shaped hip-hop but also paved the way for future female artists. To explore further, you might want to check out Billboard’s list of the best rappers of all time.
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