From viral bars on TikTok to chart-topping hits on Billboard, female rappers are rewriting the rules of the rap game—one fire verse at a time. In a genre long dominated by men, these women are not just holding their own; they’re stealing the spotlight with style, substance, and serious skill.
This list breaks down the most iconic, influential, and streamed female rappers you need to know in 2025. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the scene, expect names that have shaped the sound of rap and continue to set the internet and stage on fire.
Who Is The Best Female Rapper Of All Time
Elliott is one of the best female rapper of all time. With a career spanning over three decades, she has not only redefined the genre but also shattered numerous records.
Missy is the first female rapper inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame, highlighting her profound impact on music. Her discography boasts six platinum-certified albums, a feat unmatched by any other female rapper.
With four Grammy Awards, eight MTV Video Music Awards, and a Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award, her accolades are a testament to her talent and influence. Missy’s innovative music videos and genre-blending sound have paved the way for countless artists, solidifying her legacy as a trailblazer in hip-hop.
Top 20 Greatest Female Rappers Of All Time
Female rappers have been breaking barriers and setting new standards in the hip-hop industry for decades. Their contributions have not only shaped the genre but also empowered countless individuals worldwide.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the most influential female rappers who have left a huge mark on music history.
| Rank | Artist | Notable Achievements |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Missy Elliott | First female rapper inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame; 4 Grammy Awards |
| 2 | Lauryn Hill | Only solo album won 5 Grammys; pivotal member of The Fugees |
| 3 | Nicki Minaj | Over 100 Billboard Hot 100 entries; dubbed the “Queen of Rap” |
| 4 | MC Lyte | First solo female rapper to release a full album; pioneer in conscious rap |
| 5 | Eve | First female rapper to have a #1 album on Billboard 200; Grammy winner |
| 6 | Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes | Integral member of TLC; known for her unique style and lyrical prowess |
| 7 | Lil’ Kim | Redefined female rap with bold lyrics and fashion; multiple platinum albums |
| 8 | Queen Latifah | First female rapper to win a Grammy; successful actress and producer |
| 9 | Salt-N-Pepa | First female rap group to win a Grammy; trailblazers in the industry |
| 10 | Da Brat | First female solo rapper to go platinum; known for her rapid-fire delivery |
Now, let us look at more details about these rappers.
1. Missy Elliott
Missy Elliott is a groundbreaking rapper, singer, songwriter, and producer known for her bold style and innovative music videos. Rising to fame in the late ’90s with hits like “Get Ur Freak On” and “Work It,” she revolutionized hip-hop with her unique sound and futuristic visuals.
A five-time Grammy winner and the first female rapper inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Missy remains an icon in the industry.
2. Lauryn Hill
Lauryn Hill is a legendary rapper, singer, and songwriter best known for her work with The Fugees and her iconic solo album The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill. Blending hip-hop, soul, and reggae, her music tackles themes of love, identity, and social justice.
Though she released only one solo studio album, it earned her five Grammys and solidified her status as one of the most influential artists in hip-hop history.
3. Nicki Minaj
Nicki Minaj is a Trinidadian-American rapper, singer, and songwriter who rose to fame with her sharp lyrics, bold persona, and colorful style. Bursting onto the scene in the late 2000s, she became known for hits like “Super Bass,” “Anaconda,” and “Starships.”
With her rapid-fire flow and alter egos, Nicki redefined female rap in the mainstream and paved the way for a new generation of women in hip-hop.
4. MC Lyte
MC Lyte is a pioneering rapper and one of the first female hip-hop artists to gain widespread recognition. Emerging in the late ’80s, she is known for her sharp lyrical skills and empowering messages.
With hits like “Lyte as a Rock” and “Cold Rock a Party,” she broke barriers for women in a male-dominated genre. A trailblazer in both music and activism, MC Lyte remains an influential figure in hip-hop history.
5. Eve
Eve is a versatile rapper, singer, and actress who gained fame in the late ’90s with her distinctive voice and confident style. Known for hits like “Let Me Blow Ya Mind” and “Who’s That Girl,” she became one of the first female rappers to achieve mainstream success.
A Grammy winner, Eve has also built a successful acting career and continues to inspire with her blend of music and entrepreneurial ventures.
6. Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes
Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes was a groundbreaking rapper, singer, and member of the iconic girl group TLC. Known for her fiery personality and innovative style, she contributed to TLC’s success with hits like “No Scrubs” and “Waterfalls.”
Left Eye’s distinct rap verses and bold fashion choices set her apart in the music industry. A visionary and advocate for social change, her legacy lives on, even after her untimely passing in 2002.
7. Lil’ Kim
Lil’ Kim is a pioneering rapper known for her bold lyrics, unapologetic style, and significant impact on hip-hop and fashion. Emerging in the mid-’90s as a member of Junior M.A.F.I.A., she became a solo star with hits like “Crush on You” and “Lady Marmalade.”
Known for her provocative persona, Lil’ Kim broke boundaries for women in rap, influencing generations of artists and cementing her place as a hip-hop legend.
8. Queen Latifah
Queen Latifah is a multi-talented rapper, actress, and producer who has had a profound impact on both hip-hop and Hollywood. Rising to fame in the late ’80s with her empowering anthem “Ladies First,” she became one of rap’s most respected pioneers.
Beyond music, Queen Latifah’s acting career includes starring roles in films and TV shows, earning her multiple awards. She is a trailblazer for women in entertainment, advocating for social justice and equality.
9. Salt-N-Pepa
Salt-N-Pepa is a groundbreaking hip-hop trio consisting of Cheryl “Salt” James, Sandra “Pepa” Denton, and DJ Spinderella. Rising to prominence in the late ’80s, they became the first all-female rap group to achieve mainstream success.
Known for hits like “Push It” and “Shoop,” they broke barriers with their bold lyrics and confident personas, paving the way for future female artists in hip-hop. Their influence on both music and culture remains profound.
10. Da Brat
Da Brat is a pioneering rapper who made history as the first female solo rapper to go platinum with her debut album Funkdafied in 1994. Known for her fast-paced flow and distinctive voice, she became a key figure in ’90s hip-hop with hits like “Funkdafied” and “Ghetto Love.”
Da Brat’s contributions to the genre helped pave the way for future female rappers, and she continues to be a respected figure in hip-hop and entertainment.
11. Cardi B
Cardi B is a chart-topping rapper, singer, and social media personality who rose to fame with her bold, unfiltered persona and hits like “Bodak Yellow” and “I Like It.”
Known for her confident lyrics and unapologetic style, she became the first female rapper to win a Grammy for Best Rap Album with Invasion of Privacy. Cardi B’s influence extends beyond music, as she is a prominent figure in pop culture, fashion, and activism.
12. Rapsody
Rapsody is a Grammy-nominated rapper known for her thoughtful lyricism and storytelling. Emerging from the North Carolina hip-hop scene, she gained recognition with her powerful albums The Idea of Beautiful and Laila’s Wisdom.
With a keen focus on social issues, empowerment, and self-reflection, her music is both profound and relatable. Rapsody has earned acclaim for her authenticity and continues to be one of the most respected voices in hip-hop.
13. Megan Thee Stallion
Megan Thee Stallion is a Grammy-winning rapper known for her confident lyrics and empowering anthems. Rising to fame with hits like “Savage” and “WAP,” she has become a dominant figure in hip-hop.
Megan’s music celebrates independence, self-love, and resilience, and she’s known for her unapologetic persona and dynamic performances. She continues to break barriers in the music industry, inspiring fans with her talent and boldness.
14. Trina
Trina, born Katrina Laverne Taylor on December 3, 1974, in Miami, Florida, is a pioneering rapper and television personality. She gained prominence in 1998 with her feature on Trick Daddy’s “Nann Nigga” and released her debut album Da Baddest Bitch in 2000.
Known as the “Queen of the South,” Trina has released six studio albums and received the 2022 BET “I Am Hip Hop” award. She is also set to release her memoir, Da Baddest, in October 2024.
15. Doja Cat
Doja Cat is a Grammy-winning rapper, singer, and producer known for her eclectic blend of hip-hop, pop, and R&B. She gained fame with viral hits like “Mooo!” and “Say So,” becoming one of the most versatile artists in modern music.
With her bold persona, creative visuals, and genre-defying sound, Doja Cat continues to push boundaries and dominate the charts, captivating fans worldwide with her unique style.
16. Iggy Azalea
Iggy Azalea is an Australian rapper and singer who gained international fame with her 2014 hit “Fancy” and debut album The New Classic. Known for her distinct flow and bold persona, she quickly became a prominent figure in hip-hop.
Azalea’s success continued with tracks like “Black Widow” and “Problem” (with Ariana Grande). Despite facing controversy, she remains a significant force in the music industry, known for her boundary-pushing approach.
17. Remy Ma
Remy Ma is a Grammy-nominated rapper known for her sharp lyricism and powerful delivery. Rising to fame as part of Fat Joe’s Terror Squad, she gained major success with tracks like “Lean Back” and “Conceited.”
After serving time in prison, Remy made a triumphant return to music, continuing to influence the rap game. She is also the founder of the all-female battle rap league, Chrome 23, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit.
18. Jean Grae
Jean Grae, born Tsidi Ibrahim on November 26, 1976, in Cape Town, South Africa, is a renowned rapper, producer, and multidisciplinary artist. Raised in New York City, she emerged in the underground hip-hop scene as a member of Ground Zero and Natural Resource.
Her solo debut, Attack of the Attacking Things (2002), showcased her intricate lyricism and storytelling. Beyond music, Grae has ventured into acting, comedy, and writing, demonstrating her versatility and creative prowess.
19. Noname
Noname, born Fatimah Nyeema Warner on September 18, 1991, in Chicago, is a rapper, poet, and activist known for her introspective lyrics and genre-blending style.
She gained recognition with her 2016 mixtape Telefone and 2018 album Room 25, both praised for their poetic depth and social commentary. Beyond music, Noname founded the Noname Book Club, promoting literature by authors of color.
20. Latto
Latto, born Alyssa Stephens on December 22, 1998, is an American rapper from Atlanta. Initially known as Miss Mulatto, she gained fame after winning The Rap Game in 2016. Her breakout single, “B*tch From Da Souf,” went viral in 2019.
Known for her bold lyrics and confident style, Latto’s hits like “Big Energy” and Queen of da Souf solidified her as a prominent figure in modern hip-hop.
Top 10 Best Female Rappers 2025
The scenery of hip-hop in 2025 is vibrant, with female rappers leading the charge and setting new standards in the industry.
| Rank | Artist | Notable Achievements |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nicki Minaj | Best-selling female rapper of the 2010s; included in Time’s 100 most influential people in 2016. |
| 2 | Megan Thee Stallion | Grammy Award winner; known for empowering lyrics and dynamic performances. |
| 3 | Cardi B | Multiple Grammy Awards; renowned for her bold personality and chart-topping hits. |
| 4 | Doja Cat | Genre-blending artist; celebrated for her unique style and viral hits. |
| 5 | Ice Spice | Breakout star; recognized for her distinctive voice and rapid rise in the industry. |
| 6 | GloRilla | Rising star; gained attention with her unique sound and strong presence. |
| 7 | Latto | Known for her confident lyrics and consistent chart success. |
| 8 | Rapsody | Acclaimed for her lyrical depth and thought-provoking content. |
| 9 | Doechii | Grammy Award winner for Best Rap Album; recognized for her innovative approach to music. |
| 10 | Queen Latifah | Pioneering artist; first female rapper to win a Grammy and achieve mainstream success. |
Now let us get more in-depth about these rappers.
1. Nicki Minaj
Nicki Minaj is a Trinidadian-American rapper, singer, and songwriter who rose to fame in the late 2000s. Known for her colorful persona, fast flow, and alter egos, she broke barriers for women in rap.
Hits like “Super Bass” and “Anaconda” made her a global icon, and she continues to influence the music industry with her bold style and creativity.
2. Megan Thee Stallion
Megan Thee Stallion is a Grammy-winning rapper known for her confident delivery and empowering lyrics. Rising to fame with tracks like “Savage” and “WAP,” she became a dominant force in hip-hop.
Megan’s music celebrates independence, self-love, and resilience, and she is known for her unapologetic persona and dynamic performances.
3. Cardi B
Cardi B is a Grammy-winning rapper and singer who rose to fame with her breakout hit “Bodak Yellow.” Known for her bold personality and unfiltered lyrics, she quickly became a dominant force in hip-hop.
With chart-topping singles like “I Like It” and “WAP,” Cardi continues to break records and influence both music and pop culture.
4. Doja Cat
Doja Cat is a Grammy-winning rapper, singer, and producer known for her genre-blending music and bold, creative visuals.
Rising to fame with viral hits like “Say So” and “Mooo!,” she continues to push boundaries in both hip-hop and pop. Doja’s eclectic style and unique persona have made her one of the most influential artists of her generation.
5. Ice Spice
Ice Spice is a rising rapper from the Bronx, New York, who gained attention with her viral hit “Munch (Feelin’ U)” in 2022.
Known for her distinct voice, catchy flow, and confident persona, she quickly became a prominent figure in the rap scene. Ice Spice’s unique style and magnetic presence continue to draw fans and industry acclaim.
6. GloRilla
GloRilla is a Memphis-born rapper who gained prominence with her 2022 hit “F.N.F. (Let’s Go)” featuring Hitkidd. The song’s success led to a record deal with Yo Gotti’s CMG label.
Known for her deep voice and energetic style, she achieved further success with “Tomorrow 2” featuring Cardi B. GloRilla’s debut EP, Anyways, Life’s Great, was released in November 2022.
7. Latto
Latto, born Alyssa Stephens, is an Atlanta-based rapper who gained fame with her 2019 hit “B*tch From Da Souf.”
Known for her bold lyrics and confident persona, she quickly became a rising star in hip-hop. Her album Queen of Da Souf and hits like “Big Energy” have solidified her as a dominant force in rap.
8. Rapsody
Rapsody is a Grammy-nominated rapper known for her intricate lyricism and thought-provoking storytelling. She gained recognition with her debut album The Idea of Beautiful and further solidified her place in hip-hop with projects like Laila’s Wisdom and Eve.
Rapsody is celebrated for her empowering messages and social consciousness, making her one of the genre’s most respected voices.
9. Doechii
Doechii, born Jaylah Ji’mya Hickmon on August 14, 1998, in Tampa, Florida, is an American rapper, singer, and songwriter. She gained prominence with her 2021 viral hit “Yucky Blucky Fruitcake” on TikTok.
In 2022, she became the first female rapper signed to Top Dawg Entertainment. Her 2024 mixtape Alligator Bites Never Heal won the Grammy Award for Best Rap Album, marking a significant milestone in her career.
10. Queen Latifah
Queen Latifah, born Dana Owens on March 18, 1970, is a groundbreaking rapper, actress, and producer. Rising to fame in the late ’80s with hits like “U.N.I.T.Y.,” she became one of hip-hop’s most influential female figures.
Latifah’s success expanded into acting, with roles in films like Chicago and Girls Trip, earning her critical acclaim across multiple industries.
Best Female Rappers In Kpop
Here is the list of the Top 10 Best Female Rappers in K-pop as of 2025, highlighting their unique contributions to the genre and their impact on the K-pop industry.
| Rank | Artist | Notable Achievements |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Soyeon | Leader of (G)I-DLE; acclaimed for her songwriting and rap production skills. |
| 2 | Jennie | BLACKPINK’s main rapper; known for her charismatic stage presence and solo success. |
| 3 | Moonbyul | MAMAMOO’s main rapper; praised for her deep voice and versatile rap style. |
| 4 | Ryujin | ITZY’s main rapper; recognized for her powerful delivery and stage charisma. |
| 5 | Dami | DREAMCATCHER’s main rapper; noted for her unique voice and expressive performances. |
| 6 | CL | Former 2NE1 member; celebrated for her pioneering role in K-pop rap and solo career. |
| 7 | Jimin | AOA’s main rapper; gained attention for her appearance on “Unpretty Rapstar.” |
| 8 | Yuki | PURPLE KISS’s main rapper; admired for her distinct voice and rap skills. |
| 9 | Asa | BABYMONSTER’s rapper; recognized for her rapid rise and impactful performances. |
| 10 | LE | EXID’s main rapper; known for her underground rap roots and technical prowess. |
Black Female Rappers
In addition to the previously mentioned artists, here are five more Black female rappers who have made significant contributions to the genre:
1. Little Simz
Little Simz is a British rapper known for her introspective lyrics and versatile flow. Her 2021 album Sometimes I Might Be Introvert received critical acclaim for its depth and storytelling.
Simz’s music often addresses themes of identity, mental health, and societal issues, earning her a dedicated fanbase and recognition in the global hip-hop scene.
2. Tierra Whack
Tierra Whack is an experimental rapper known for her unique approach to hip-hop and conceptual albums. Her debut album Whack World was praised for its creativity and her ability to seamlessly blend humor with serious themes.
Tierra’s distinct sound and boundary-pushing style have earned her a reputation as one of the most innovative voices in rap.
3. Saweetie
Saweetie rose to fame with her breakout single “Icy Grl” and has since continued to deliver hit after hit, including “My Type” and “Best Friend” featuring Doja Cat.
Her catchy hooks and confident persona have made her a favorite in mainstream rap. In addition to her music career, Saweetie is also known for her entrepreneurial ventures and advocacy for self-confidence.
4. City Girls (Yung Miami and JT)
City Girls, composed of Yung Miami and JT, are known for their unapologetic, high-energy rap style that brings a fresh perspective to the hip-hop scene.
They gained fame with their viral hits like “Act Up” and “Twerk” and continue to influence mainstream rap with their catchy anthems and empowering messages. Their music often blends elements of Southern rap and trap, making them favorites among fans.
We’ve also ranked and made a roundup list of the best rappers of all time that you can check out.
5. Chika
Chika is an Alabama-born rapper who rose to prominence through her powerful, thought-provoking lyrics and her ability to blend rap with social commentary. Her 2020 EP Industry Games received critical acclaim for its raw authenticity and lyricism.
Chika’s unique voice and unapologetic style have earned her recognition as a rising star in the rap world.
Other lists:
Conclusion: Missy Elliott Remains The Best Female Rapper of All Time
The legacy of female rap is rich with talent and innovation, and Missy Elliott stands as the ultimate pioneer of the genre. From her genre-defying music to her cultural impact, Missy’s contributions have shaped the rap scene like no other.
Following closely are legends like Nicki Minaj and Queen Latifah, who continue to redefine what it means to be a female rapper. As the genre continues to evolve, these iconic artists remain integral in shaping the future of hip-hop. Their legacy and influence will echo through the industry for years to come.
FAQs
Missy Elliott is often considered the best female rapper due to her groundbreaking contributions, unique style, and lasting influence on the rap genre.
Currently, Nicki Minaj continues to dominate, with her chart-topping hits, numerous awards, and global influence in the rap industry.
The top female rappers in 2025 include Nicki Minaj, Megan Thee Stallion, and Cardi B, all known for their chart success and cultural impact.
Among the top K-pop female rappers are Soyeon of (G)I-DLE and Jennie of BLACKPINK, known for their rap skills and stage presence.
A successful female rapper combines lyrical talent, unique style, stage presence, and the ability to connect with audiences, as demonstrated by top artists like Nicki Minaj and Missy Elliott.
