Icons In Hip-Hop: The Impact of Trina and Missy Elliot

We as a society often measure success

by just looking at accolades and applause. It's easy to use trophies and titles as a means of this determination, but the true success of an icon is measured by their impact and how their careers influence others. The influences and impact of Missy Elliot and Trina are present in today's culture of hip-hop and are to be celebrated as we look at women in hip-hop.

To be bold. To be confident. To DEMAND that you be heard. 2022 BET I Am HipHop Award Winner Trina has blazed a path as a hip-hop icon. That loud, free, explicit sound that you hear up and down the industry from women in hip-hop such as SUkkiana, Cukkake, and Doja Cat, has all been made possible by the breakout that is Trina. Trina has carved out her place along with Trick Daddy and Uncle Luke as a pioneer of Southern sound and Southern hip-hop culture.

Born and raised in Miami, Florida, Trina crashed through the industry laying a foundation for fearless sexual expression. In the 90s and early 2000s, the climate of hip-hop was dominant in men openly expressing their personal desire for sex and sexual activity. However, women in hip-hop did not have the same luxury. Women who openly expressed

sexual desire and sexuality were oftentimes met with backlash and shame. Trina disrupted this culture with her edge and Miami sound that blasted through the stereotype of what women in hip-hop should sound like. Trina used her influence to inspire other women to feel confident and comfortable in their own bodies, in contrast to the opinions of others.

Today, we celebrate Trina as one of many greats in hip-hop and can appreciate not only her presence in hip-hop today, but the fearless spirit in tracks by Megan Thee Stallion, Cardi B, and more. A track like W.A.P. would not have been so well received had we not been reminded of da baddest b*tch 20 years ago.

Trina's Top 5 Trax:

Da Baddest B*tch

Here We Go (feat. Kelly Rowland)

Pull Over

Look Back At Me

B R Right (feat. Ludacris)

The FLYEST gal has been setting trends since trends have been trends. From her songwriting genius to her amazing visual projects, Missy's creativity has been consistently proven to be ahead of its time. Pushing boundaries, experimenting with genres and sound in ways many wouldn't dare take the chance, and looking good while doing it.

By blending many genres, including R&B, pop, and electronic music, Missy Elliott's music tested the limits of hip-hop. She created unconventional beats, catchy hooks, and intricate wordplay, creating a distinct sound that defied traditional rap norms. Her ground-breaking

style of songwriting and music production took the genre to a whole new level.

The influence of Missy Elliott goes beyond just her own output. She is a skilled songwriter and producer who frequently works with other musicians to make hits. She has collaborated with well-known artists including Aaliyah, Beyoncé, Whitney Houston, and Ciara, among others, influencing their sound and boosting their popularity. Missy Elliott is also well known for her creative and visually spectacular music videos. She worked on several ground-breaking videos with renowned director Hype Williams. Her videos influenced the artistry and visual storytelling in hip-hop with their cutting-edge special effects, fresh choreography, and futuristic aesthetics.

Missy Elliott has received numerous accolades for her massive contributions to hip-hop. She has won numerous BET Awards, Grammy Awards, and MTV Video Music Awards. She cemented her influence on the music business in 2019 when she became the first female rapper to be inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. Her reputation as an icon of the genre continues to inspire new generations of musicians, and her influence can be traced to the work of plenty of artists who have followed in her footsteps.