On this date 55 years ago, Hip-Hop’s first matriarch was born in Newark, New Jersey.
Dana Owens, known to the world as Queen Latifah, evolved from a promising basketball player in Irvington, New Jersey, into one of Hip-Hop’s most iconic figures. Over the past three decades, she has delivered timeless albums, captivated audiences on the silver screen, and cemented her legacy as a multifaceted entertainer. From her unforgettable role as “Cleo” in Set It Off to her award-winning performance as “Mama” in Chicago, the Queen of the legendary Flavor Unit remains a dominant force in both Hip-Hop and global pop culture.
As we celebrate Latifah on her birthday, it’s only fitting that we take it back to where it all began.