Today, we celebrate the achievements of women around the world, and we want to take a moment to recognize the contributions that women have made to the world of hip-hop.
Hip-hop has long been dominated by men, but women have always been an integral part of the culture. From the early days of hip-hop in the Bronx to the global phenomenon it is today, women have been making their mark on the industry.
Here are some of the pioneering women in hip-hop that have paved the way for the next generation of female artists:
Queen Latifah - One of the first women to break into hip-hop in the 1980s, Queen Latifah's music focused on empowering women and challenging stereotypes. She won a Grammy award in 1995 for Best Solo Rap Performance for her song "U.N.I.T.Y." and an Emmy award in 1994 for her role in the TV show "Living Single."
MC Lyte - Another trailblazer of the 80s, MC Lyte was the first female rapper to release a full-length album. She has also been recognized with numerous awards, including a BET Lifetime Achievement Award in 2013 and a VH1 Hip Hop Honors award in 2006.
Lauryn Hill - Known for her work in the Fugees, Lauryn Hill's solo album, "The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill," won five Grammy Awards in 1999, including Album of the Year, and is widely regarded as a classic in the hip-hop genre.
Missy Elliott - With her innovative music videos and genre-bending music, Missy Elliott has been a force in hip-hop for over two decades. She has won four Grammy Awards and has been nominated for many others, including a 2019 nomination for Best Rap Album for "Iconology.
Nicki Minaj - One of the most successful female rappers of all time, Nicki Minaj has sold millions of records and influenced a new generation of artists. She has won numerous awards, including four American Music Awards, six BET Awards, and 12 BET Hip Hop Awards.
These are just a few examples of the countless women who have contributed to the hip-hop world. And, with our upcoming feature film about a young Hiphop Muslim lady in Kaduna, Nigeria, we hope to add to that legacy.
Thank you for being part of our Salamatu community and supporting our film. We hope you have a wonderful International Women's Day!
Best regards
Shimataver, Producer