Want to know more about female rap? Here’s 100 female rap artists you should listen to.
Here are some of the best American female rappers to listen to this year:
Hailing from Pittsburgh, Kellee Maize is best known for her positive and empowering lyrics, as well as her advocacy for sustainability and spiritual wellness. She gained recognition for her socially conscious music and independent approach to the music industry. Her music often incorporates elements of hip-hop, electronic, and pop genres, with lyrics that touch on themes of personal growth, environmentalism, and social justice. She is also known for her activism and community engagement, using her platform to raise awareness about issues such as climate change, mental health, and self-empowerment. She continues to release music independently and collaborate with other artists, inspiring listeners to embrace positivity and make a difference in the world.
Some of her hits include “Third Eye” and “Google Female Rapper”.
Megan Thee Stallion, born Megan Jovon Ruth Pete, is an American rapper, singer, and songwriter known for her bold and confident lyricism, empowering messages, and charismatic persona. Her music often explores themes of female empowerment, sexuality, and self-assurance, drawing from her experiences growing up in Houston, Texas. In addition to her music career, she is known for her advocacy for women's rights and her outspokenness on social issues.
Some of her hits include “Hot Girl Summer”, “Savage,” and more recently, “Hiss”.
Doja Cat, born Amala Ratna Zandile Dlamini, is known for her eclectic musical style, catchy hooks, and playful persona. She gained recognition for her viral hit “Mooo!,” which showcased her quirky sense of humor and innovative approach to music. With songs like “Boss Bitch,” and “Streets,” she has amassed millions of streams and earned critical acclaim for her infectious melodies and versatile vocal delivery.
Some of her other top songs include “Say So” and “Paint the Town Red”.
Queen Latifah, born Dana Owens, is a multifaceted American artist known for her contributions to music, film, and television. Emerging as a pioneering female rapper in the late 1980s, she earned acclaim for her socially conscious lyrics and empowering messages, epitomized in hits like "U.N.I.T.Y." Later, she transitioned successfully into acting, starring in films such as Set It Off, Chicago, and TV series like Living Single.
Some of her most popular songs include “Ladies First” and “Weekend Love”.
Missy Elliott, born Melissa Arnette Elliott, is an iconic rapper, singer, songwriter, producer, and dancer, renowned for her groundbreaking contributions to hip-hop and R&B music. With her innovative production style, imaginative music videos, and distinctive flow, she's left an indelible mark on the industry. With hits like "Get Ur Freak On," "Work It," and "Lose Control," she has earned critical acclaim and commercial success, winning multiple Grammy Awards and becoming one of the best-selling female artists in history.
She is known for hits like "Get Ur Freak On" and "Work It."
Saweetie, also known as Diamonté Quiava Valentin Harper, is a rising American rapper, singer, and songwriter known for her bold fashion sense and empowering lyrics. Her music often incorporates elements of hip-hop, R&B, and trap, with lyrics that touch on themes of female empowerment, success, and self-assurance. With tracks like "My Type," "Tap In," and "Best Friend," featuring Doja Cat, she has garnered millions of streams and earned commercial success for her infectious beats and confident delivery.
Some of her other most popular songs include “Icy Grl”.
Cardi B, born Belcalis Marlenis Almánzar, is known for her charismatic personality and raw lyricism. She rose to prominence with her hit single "Bodak Yellow," which earned her the distinction of being the first female rapper to top the Billboard Hot 100 chart since Lauryn Hill. Her unfiltered approach to music and life, coupled with her humorous and relatable social media presence, has endeared her to a massive audience. She's continued her success with albums like Invasion of Privacy and has expanded her career into acting and fashion.
Some of her most popular songs include “Money” and “I Like It”.
Azealia Banks is an American rapper and actress known for her provocative lyrics, genre-blending music, and outspoken personality. She gained attention with her breakout single "212" and has since released several EPs and albums showcasing her versatility and creativity. Banks is also recognized for her outspokenness on social media, often engaging in controversies and expressing her opinions on various topics.
Some of her other hits include “Luxury”.
Robin Yvette Allen, an American rapper and actress known for her powerful delivery and commanding presence on the mic. She gained prominence as part of the West Coast hip-hop scene, particularly through her collaborations with artists like Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg. Her notable tracks include "Afro Puffs" and "G Funk Intro," where her delivery and lyrical skill left a lasting impact on the genre.
Some of her most popular songs include “Big Bad Lady” and “Do What I Feel”.
Lauryn Hill is a pioneering figure in rap music, renowned for her distinctive flow, introspective lyrics, and commanding stage presence. Initially gaining prominence as part of the iconic hip-hop trio The Fugees, she later solidified her status as a solo artist with the release of her groundbreaking album The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill. Her lyrical prowess and thought-provoking messages have cemented her legacy as one of the most influential figures in rap history.
Some of her notable songs include “Ex-Factor” And “Doo Wop (That Thing)”.
MC Lyte, born Lana Michele Moorer, is a pioneering American rapper, songwriter, and actress who played a crucial role in shaping the landscape of hip-hop music. Known for her lyrical prowess, confident delivery, and influential voice, MC Lyte became one of the first female rappers to achieve mainstream success. As an artist, her music combines sharp lyricism with social commentary, empowering messages, and a commanding stage presence.
Some of her hits include “Lyte as a Rock” and “Poor Georgie”.
Lil' Kim, born Kimberly Denise Jones, is an American rapper and songwriter who emerged in the mid-1990s as a prominent figure in hip-hop. Her music often explores themes of sexuality, empowerment, and the realities of street life. She possesses a distinct and commanding delivery, with a unique blend of hardcore rap and melodic hooks, which has solidified her status as a trailblazer in the rap genre.
Some of her hits include “Lady Marmalade” and “Crush on You”.
Eve, a dynamic force in hip-hop, captivated audiences with her infectious energy, lyrical prowess, and distinctive style. Emerging from the Philadelphia rap scene, she gained widespread recognition with her debut album Let There Be Eve... Ruff Ryders' First Lady. Beyond her music career, she has ventured into acting and entrepreneurship, solidifying her status as a multifaceted talent and a trailblazer for women in hip-hop.
Some of her most popular hits include “Who’s That Girl?” and “Let Me Blow Ya Mind” ft. Gwen Stefani.
Snow Tha Product, a standout in the rap game, is revered for her rapid-fire delivery, bilingual rhymes, and unapologetic authenticity. Her unique blend of English and Spanish lyrics reflects her cultural background and resonates with a diverse audience. With a string of mixtapes and albums, she has carved out her own lane in hip-hop, earning respect for her undeniable talent and unwavering dedication to her craft.
Some of her most popular songs include “Waste of Time” and “Butter”.
Jean Grae emerged from the underground rap scene and has garnered acclaim for her thought-provoking lyrics and innovative approach to the genre. Her versatile style allows her to seamlessly transition between socially conscious rhymes, personal reflections, and playful banter, showcasing her depth as an artist.
Some of her hits include “Love Thirst” and “Kill Screen”.
Flo Milli, a rising star in the rap scene, captivates listeners with her bold charisma, infectious energy, and razor-sharp lyricism. She gained attention with her breakout single "Beef FloMix," showcasing her confident delivery and catchy hooks. With her unique blend of trap beats and playful wordplay, she has quickly established herself as a force to be reckoned with in the world of hip-hop, earning praise for her undeniable talent and undeniable presence on the mic.
Some of her hits include “Weak” and “In The Party”.
Rapsody gained recognition for her poignant lyrics and soulful delivery, earning accolades for her albums such as Laila's Wisdom and Eve. Her music often explores themes of Black empowerment, feminism, and personal growth, showcasing her versatility and depth as an artist. With her compelling narratives and unwavering authenticity, she has solidified her status as one of the most respected voices in hip-hop.
Some of her most popular songs are “Power” and “Nina”.
Rico Nasty captivates audiences with her bold style, energetic performances, and genre-defying sound.She gained attention for her distinctive blend of punk rock and hip-hop influences, showcased in hits like "Smack a Bitch" and "Poppin'." Her music exudes confidence and defiance, as she fearlessly embraces her individuality and challenges conventional norms. With her charismatic presence and infectious energy, she has quickly risen to prominence, earning praise for her boundary-pushing creativity and unapologetic authenticity.
Some of her most popular songs include “iCarly” and “Time Flies”.
Remy Ma gained recognition as a member of the Terror Squad before solidifying her solo career with hits like "Conceited" and "Lean Back." Her music reflects her experiences in the hustle and the struggle, often exploring themes of resilience, loyalty, and empowerment. Despite setbacks, including a high-profile legal battle, she has emerged stronger than ever, earning respect for her undeniable talent and resilience in the face of adversity.
Some of her top songs include “Lean Back” and “Conceited”.
Princess Nokia, a rising star in the rap world, captivates audiences with her eclectic style, empowering lyrics, and fearless attitude. Hailing from New York City, she gained attention for her mixtapes before breaking out with her debut album "1992 Deluxe" and the viral hit "Tomboy." Princess Nokia's music defies categorization, blending elements of hip-hop, R&B, and punk with themes of self-love, feminism, and cultural pride.
Some of her hits include “No Effort” and “Kitana”.
Latto, formerly known as Mulatto, is a rising star in the rap scene, known for her bold lyrics, confident delivery, and captivating stage presence. Hailing from Atlanta, Georgia, she gained widespread recognition after appearing on the reality show The Rap Game and subsequently releasing a series of successful mixtapes. With hits like "B*tch From Da Souf" and "Muwop," she showcases her Southern roots and unapologetic attitude, addressing themes of empowerment, success, and self-assurance. With her undeniable talent and work ethic, Latto has quickly become a force to be reckoned with in hip-hop, earning praise for her authenticity and determination to carve out her own lane in the industry.
Some of her popular songs include “Lottery” and “Wheelie”.
Rah Digga commands respect with her razor-sharp lyricism, commanding delivery, and unapologetic attitude.She gained prominence as a member of the influential group Flipmode Squad before launching her solo career. With her powerful presence and undeniable talent on the mic, she has earned a reputation as one of the most skilled female emcees in the game, paving the way for future generations of women in hip-hop.
Some of her hit songs include “Tight” and “What They Call Me”.
Jucee Froot, born Monique Hardin, is an American rapper and singer known for her fierce delivery, powerful vocals, and unapologetic lyrics. She effortlessly transitions between rapping and singing, showcasing her versatility as an artist. Her lyrics often touch on themes of resilience, empowerment, and her personal experiences, providing a glimpse into her journey and mindset.
Some of her hits include “Danger” and “Distance”.
Kash Doll is an American rapper, singer, and entrepreneur who has made a name for herself with her fierce lyricism and unfiltered storytelling. Born Arkeisha Knight, she adopted the stage name Kash Doll as a representation of her ambition and drive. She fearlessly addresses themes of empowerment, financial independence, and female resilience. Through her music, she encourages women to embrace their strength, assert their worth, and break free from societal limitations.
Some hit songs include “Ice Me Out” and “Krazy”.
Asian Doll, also known as Asian Da Brat, is a dynamic and captivating rapper whose undeniable talent has propelled her to the forefront of the hip-hop scene. Born as Misharron Jamesha Allen, she developed her own authentic voice and fearless attitude, setting her apart from her peers. Her rapid-fire delivery, melodic hooks, and unapologetic confidence have become her trademarks, captivating audiences around the world.
Some of her popular songs include “Pull Up” and “Fell In Love”.
MC Sha-Rock, also known as Sharon Green, is a pioneering figure in hip-hop culture, revered as one of the first female MCs. Hailing from the Bronx, New York, she rose to prominence in the early 1970s as a member of the hip-hop group Funky 4 + 1. She played a pivotal role in shaping the nascent hip-hop scene, as she broke barriers as one of the few female artists in a male-dominated genre and paved the way for future generations of female MCs.
Some of her most popular songs include “Feel It” and “Do You Want to Rock”.
Since women often face difficulty in finding success in rap, it’s impressive to see women of many backgrounds and artistic styles find popularity.
