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When it comes to Hip-Hop, it’s no secret that women are currently dominating the charts. A once male-dominated industry has now, though begrudgingly, become more diverse as female rappers have not only proven that they are just as talented, but that they can attract more fans, create chart-topping hit records and execute better performances.
While these past few years many female rappers have raised the bar for quality music (think: Cardi B, Megan Thee Stallio, etc.), it’s their predecessors who cemented women in music history as being influential, extraordinary and way ahead of their time—all while helping to shape the genre into what we see today. Hip-hop has had many queens reign supreme in both mainstream and underground circles. Oftentimes, women who chose the mic were rightfully named as competitors but rarely championed as collaborators, creating a coveted solo spot at the top.
Kicking down the doors of the gatekeepers while shifting the genre of Hip-Hop towards inclusivity, female rappers are making their marks, shifting the stagnated concept while forging their own paths to limitless opportunities and self-defined success.
From MC Lyte, Queen Latifah, Missy Elliott, Da Brat and Rah Digga to Nicki Minaj, Cardi B, Megan Thee Stallion and Rapsody and the countless other female rappers who are entering the game unapologetically, the male-dominated Hip-Hop industry trope is becoming a thing of the past. The rap game is long overdue for an overhaul of talent, and female rappers are lining up in droves to even the score in the genre.
For 2024 and Black Women’s History Month, Hip-Hop Wired has highlighted the top 30 Greatest Female Rappers of All Time, ranked. Be sure to watch distinguished journalists speak on some of the greatest female rappers in the video above.
Check out the top 10 in the gallery below.
11. Remy Ma
12. Cardi B
13. Eve
14. Megan Thee Stallion
15. Rah Digga
16. Jean Grae
17. Trina
18. Left Eye
19. Lady of Rage
20. Bahamadia
21. Roxanne Shante
22. Mia X
23. MC Sha-Rock
24. Gangsta Boo
25. Shawnna
26. Ladybug Mecca
27. Yo-Yo
28. Monie Love
29. Young MA
30. Sa-Roc
