Missy Elliott becomes the first female rapper inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
Missy Elliott has become the first female hip-hop artist to be inducted into the Rock and Rock Hall of Fame.
The rapper, who was announced as an honouree in May, was introduced by fellow rapper Queen Latifah before taking the stage at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center.
While speaking of the ‘Work It’ rapper, Latifah noted how 'nothing sounded the same after Missy came on the scene’, adding she’s a true ‘visionary’, as per Rolling Stone.
“And that’s because Missy has always been a futurist, someone who is always looking ahead. She is avant-garde without even trying,” she added.
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“Entire generations of artists owe a debt to Missy.
"She’s never been afraid to speak out about the misconceptions, the stereotypes, and the straight up misogyny that has been placed, and the obstacles that have been placed, in the way of women.
"She has been a leader in blowing those obstacles away."
The icon then became teary-eyed in her acceptance speech.
“This is deeper than just me being up here," she told the crow.d
"You feel like it’s so far to reach when you’re in the hip-hop world. To be standing here means so much to me…All the inductees, you’re so amazing. I’m honored to be even in the room with you all."
Before taking the stage, Elliott performed a medley of ‘Get Ur Freak On,’ ‘The Rain,’ ‘Work It,’ ‘Pass That Dutch,’ and ‘Lose Control’ surrounded by her backup dancers, all dressed in gold.
Earlier this year, when it was announced the musician would be receiving the honor, she took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to express her gratitude.
“I want to say this is HUGE not for just me but all my Sisters in HIPHOP this door is now OPEN to showcase the hard work & what many of us contribute to MUSIC,” she shared with her seven million followers.
“I have cried all morning because I am GRATEFUL thank you @rockhall & all on the committee & Supafriends.”
Many were quick to congratulate the artist for the milestone, as one user wrote: “You deserve it queen. Congratulations!!!”
Another said: “Congratulations Queen. You deserve all the recognition, can’t wait for the official induction!!”
While a third shared: “Hugeeee Congrats Missy!!! The fruits of your labor are overflowing… you set the foundation and look what God did!! Proud Stan.”
Well done queen.
Charisa Bossinakis