First Ladies of Rap

Ms. Melodie paved the way for future generations of femcees.

Ms. Melodie - As the former wife of the blastmaster KRS-One, Ms. Melodie had some knowledge that she too wanted to share with the hip hop community. Although her stint as an MC didn't last too long, she had a classic verse on "Self Destruction."
Iggy Azalea apologizing for her "slave master" lyric: - "This is a metaphoric take on an originally literal lyric, and I was never trying to say I am a slave owner."(Photo: Robin Marchant/FilmMagic/Getty Images)
Lola Monroe – Taylor Gang - Wiz Khalifa announced last year that he had signed Lola Monroe to his Taylor Gang crew, and she's already become one of its standout members, snagging a nomination for Best Female Hip Hop Artist at the BET Hip Hop Awards.(Photo: Brad Barket/PictureGroup)Nicki Minaj – Young Money - Although she was once down with both Gucci Mane's So Icey Entertainment and Lil Wayne's Young Money at the same time, Minaj ultimately aligned with YM. The Queens MC signed with the label in August 2009 and released her platinum-selling album, Pink Friday, the following year. (Photo: Jason Merritt/Getty Images)

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Ms. Melodie – Boogie Down Productions - From Roxanne Shante of the Juice Crew to Nicki Minaj of Young Money, rap crews throughout history have always needed a talented female to rep for them. As the wife of rap icon KRS-One, Ms. Melodie was the first lady of his Boogie Down Productions crew almost by default. However, Mel gave up her crown and left her recording career behind altogether after their divorce in 1992. Yesterday [July 18] it was reported that the Brooklyn, NY native died of unspecified causes and the news shocked many. In light of the unexpected death of the hip hop pioneer, BET.com takes a look at other rap crews' so-called first ladies.(Photo: Courtesy Jive Records)

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