Lil’ Kim

One of the best to ever bless the mic. Her debut album Hardcore is a classic. A protegée of the late Notorious B.I.G., she is known for her bold, innovative, and no-holds-barred approach to rap and fashion that has generated controversy and admiration for over 20 years. Among the most commercially successful rappers of the 90’s and 00’s, she was part of a wave that ushered hip-hop into the mainstream. Her artistry laid the foundations and created a blueprint for all female rappers that came after. A Brooklyn native, she is fiercely competitive and has sparred with many of the greats, including Tupac, 50 Cent, and Foxy Brown. She has also consistently used her clout to help others elevate their status. Widely considered a fashion icon and trendsetter whose influential style continues to inspire people today, she has been called a muse by the biggest designers in the world, including Alexander McQueen, Donatella Versace, and Marc Jacobs. Her outfits have been recreated numerous times by the likes of Rihanna, Beyoncé, and Kylie Jenner. She has made forays into other business ventures, including television, clothing, and alcoholic beverages. Her company Queen Bee Entertainment has released the majority of her albums and mixtapes, and produced several high-profile concerts. The Godmother of Rap. Long live the Queen!