Evolution of MC Lyte

Here's how the rap great turned into a media power player.

A Stage and Film Star Is Born - MC Lyte first appeared as an actress in an off-Broadway play called Club Twelve, the production featured Wyclef Jean and Lauryn Hill. On the big screen, Lyte starred in such films as Fly by Night, A Luv Tale, Train Ride and Playa’s Ball. (Photo: Dan Steinberg/Getty Images)
Lyte’s Voiceover Makeover - In 1996, Lyte began her very successful foray into voiceover work. She is now the voice behind such corporate giants as Coca-Cola, McDonald’s and Nike. Lyte also lent her pipes to Mattel Diva Stars “Chat Doll” Tia and she is the official voice for the annual VH1 Hip Hop Honors broadcast. (Photo: Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images For BET)
Making Hip Hop History - MC Lyte donated her diary, a turntable, records and other assorted memorabilia from hip hop to the Smithsonian Institution. This collection, as well as several other artifacts, became the program “Hip-Hop Won’t Stop: The Beat, the Rhymes, the Life,” which documents the genre’s historical relevance. (Photo: Robert Mora/Getty Images)
Creating Rap Superstars - In 2007, Lyte joined the cast of MTV’s Celebrity Rap Superstar and coached Shar Jackson, who became a victorious hip hop emcee in eight weeks. That same year, Lyte also moonlighted on a nationwide House of Blues tour with The Roots. (Photo: Kevin Winter/Getty Images)Fashion Forward Lyte - Showing her diversity in the entertainment industry and business savvy for becoming a brand, Lyte opened  a Los Angeles boutique called Shaitel. The shop, which sells everything from belts to sunglasses and carries both vintage and new items, has the goal of bringing New York flavor to California. (Photo: Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for BET)

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Lyte’s Voiceover Makeover - In 1996, Lyte began her very successful foray into voiceover work. She is now the voice behind such corporate giants as Coca-Cola, McDonald’s and Nike. Lyte also lent her pipes to Mattel Diva Stars “Chat Doll” Tia and she is the official voice for the annual VH1 Hip Hop Honors broadcast. (Photo: Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images For BET)

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