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Hip Hop Awards 2024: Missy Elliott Wins Best Live Performer for Her Electrifying Stage Presence

With timeless hits like “Work It” and “Lose Control,” Missy’s influence on music, live performances, and innovation remains unparalleled as she continues to set the standard for generations of artists.

Missy Elliott is a visionary who has continuously pushed the boundaries of music, art, and performance, making her one of the most revered figures in hip hop. Known for her groundbreaking music videos and electrifying live performances, Missy’s ability to fuse cutting-edge visuals with dynamic choreography has inspired artists across generations. From the early days of Supa Dupa Fly to her more recent hits, Elliott’s artistic genius is unmatched, making her a blueprint for creativity in the genre. Some of her most notable accolades include being the first female rapper inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, receiving the MTV Video Vanguard Award, and having six Grammy Awards to her name. Missy has always been ahead of her time, and winning Best Live Performer at the 2024 BET Hip Hop Awards is just another testament to her influence and longevity in the industry.

Watch the 2024 BET Hip Hop Awards here.

  • Work It

    A defining moment in both Missy Elliott's career and hip hop culture, "Work It" is an anthem that transcends time. The music video, directed by Missy herself, was a game-changer, full of surreal visuals, playful choreography, and iconic imagery. From the reverse lyrics to her fearless embrace of different body types and aesthetics, Missy’s visionary artistry made this track an instant classic. Her performance energy in this video has become legendary, cementing "Work It" as one of the greatest songs—and videos—in hip hop history. The track’s success solidified Missy’s reputation as an innovator, a trendsetter, and a creative force unlike any other.

  • Lose Control 

    "Lose Control" perfectly captures Missy Elliott’s ability to create high-energy tracks that light up any stage. The song's pulsating beats, futuristic sound, and fast-paced choreography translate into some of the most memorable live performances of her career. Its infectious rhythm showcases Missy’s skill at bringing together diverse musical influences, blending hip hop with dance and electronic elements. Every time she performs this hit, the audience can feel her unmatched energy and passion for pushing the boundaries of performance art. The song and its visual direction set new standards for what a live show could be, further establishing Missy as the queen of innovation.

  • Take Away 

    "Take Away" showcases Missy Elliott’s softer, more introspective side, proving her versatility as both a rapper and a singer. While known for her high-energy bangers, this song demonstrates her ability to connect emotionally with her audience. The music video is a powerful testament to Missy’s knack for visual storytelling, with celestial imagery and ethereal colors that perfectly complement the song’s reflective tone. Performances of "Take Away" show Missy’s ability to bring vulnerability and sincerity to the stage, resonating with fans on a deeper level while still maintaining her signature style.

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  • Gossip Folks

     "Gossip Folks" is another shining example of Missy Elliott’s unapologetic attitude and bold creativity. The track addresses rumors and gossip in a way that only Missy can—by turning it into an infectious, fun anthem. The music video, like most of her visuals, was ahead of its time, full of larger-than-life sets, cartoonish special effects, and vibrant dance sequences. Her live performances of this track are a masterclass in showmanship, with Missy often surrounded by dancers, vibrant visuals, and a relentless energy that keeps the crowd hyped from start to finish. "Gossip Folks" reinforces her place as an unstoppable force in both music and performance art.

  • Cool Off 

    "Cool Off" captures the essence of Missy’s long-lasting career—playful, innovative, and totally unique. The song’s fast-paced rhythm and energetic vibe are matched by an equally dynamic music video, full of kinetic sculptures and bold art installations. Live performances of "Cool Off" highlight Missy’s ability to command the stage with her iconic moves, creative outfits, and signature cool confidence. This track, like much of Missy’s work, proves that she is still evolving as an artist while remaining deeply rooted in the creative ingenuity that made her a legend.

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