Just in time for Women’s History Month, the current issue of the Source Magazine takes a deep dive into the plight of the female MC. With interviews with Iggy Azalea, Brianna, Nitty Scott MC and others, journalist Courtney Brown examines why it’s so hard for femcees to maintain longevity in the male-dominated Hip-Hop World. Below are a few excerpts:
Step into the digital world and you will arguably find hundreds of female MC’s worldwide who rock the mic, book shows, and promote their own music. A new wave of girls are bogarting the game with a plan and not taking no for an answer. Iggy Azalea, Azealia Banks, Brianna, Rapsody, Nitty Scott, Boog Brown, Miz Korona, Marz Lovejoy, Lola Monroe, Gloss Da Boss, Rocky Riviera, Na’Tee, and the list goes on. Representing different regions, these women go from slick-tongued to soft spoken, and they’re ready for their moment. “I didn’t consciously put this look together. I’m just a girl,” says Australian-born Iggy Azalea, whose blonde haired, blue-eyed look has already caught the attention of hot newcomer A$AP Rocky (Iggy has stated she’s in love with him in prior interviews). “I want to look hot like every other girl; you know. Like the girls in the magazines. Yeah I like that a lot too…”
…While there has been a substantial amount of bickering between femcees (Roxanne Shante vs. The Real Roxanne, MC lyte vs Antionette, Foxy Brown vs Lil Kim, Lil Kim vs Nicki Minaj, etc), one thing seems to resonate with the newer artist. Having a female mentor in the game is a necessity. “Trina, she’s really close to me,” says Miami-based rapper Brianna, who recently signed to Atlantic Records. Brianna is prepping her major label debut with the backing of Poe Boy, the label that was once home to Jackie-O. “Trina and I have a deeper than music relationship. She’s always there for advice, whether it be for music or life. She’s a great inspiration on my life. She’s always one call or one text away.” One the strong survive in a game where men make up most of the players and the referees. In an age where chivalry is dead, it’s time for the females to open the door for one another.
-Courtney Brown(@CourtneyBrown)