The 2000s was a transformative decade for hip-hop, and the women of rap were a vital part of that evolution. As the genre grew in popularity, so did the influence of female artists. These women not only helped shape the sound of rap but also proved that hip-hop was a space where women could thrive, lead, and create. From trailblazers to new voices, the 2000s saw the rise of some of the most iconic and influential female rap artists who continue to impact the genre today. Their unique styles, catchy beats, and unforgettable lyrics made them forces to be reckoned with. This article celebrates the best female rap tracks from the 2000s and highlights the artists who defined that era.
The 10 Best 2000s Female Rap Artists Who Dominated the Decade
1. Missy Elliott – “Get Ur Freak On”
Missy Elliott’s “Get Ur Freak On,” released in 2001, is a defining track of the 2000s. With its energetic beat and Missy’s distinctive flow, the song became an anthem in hip-hop. The production, courtesy of Timbaland, was innovative and fresh, combining Eastern influences with hip-hop to create a unique sound that was ahead of its time. Missy’s delivery is confident and playful, making the track a staple in the club scene. “Get Ur Freak On” demonstrated Missy’s ability to blend fun, forward-thinking production with catchy hooks, solidifying her as a dominant force in rap.
2. Lil’ Kim – “Lady Marmalade” (with Christina Aguilera, Mýa, and Pink)
“Lady Marmalade” was a massive hit in 2001, and Lil’ Kim’s verse stood out as a defining moment in her career. The track, a collaboration with Christina Aguilera, Mýa, and Pink, was a perfect mix of glam, sex appeal, and hip-hop swagger. Lil’ Kim brought her fierce attitude to the song, delivering a verse that was both seductive and confident. Her presence on the track helped make it a chart-topping success and proved that she was one of the most iconic female rappers of the 2000s. “Lady Marmalade” remains one of her most celebrated collaborations.
3. Eve – “Let Me Blow Ya Mind” (featuring Gwen Stefani)
Released in 2001, “Let Me Blow Ya Mind” is a standout track from Eve, featuring Gwen Stefani. The song’s smooth, laid-back beat contrasts perfectly with Eve’s confident and fiery rap delivery. The collaboration between Eve and Stefani brought together hip-hop and pop in a way that was refreshing and unique. The track became a huge success, earning Eve her first Grammy Award. “Let Me Blow Ya Mind” helped cement Eve’s position as one of the leading female rappers of the 2000s, showcasing her versatility and ability to work across genres.
4. Trina – “Da Baddest Bitch”
Trina’s 2000 hit “Da Baddest Bitch” helped establish her as a prominent force in the rap scene. The track is brash, confident, and unapologetic, with Trina delivering her lines with a fierce attitude. The song’s title says it all—Trina used this track to claim her place as one of the top female rappers. With its catchy hook and bold lyrics, “Da Baddest Bitch” quickly became a club anthem. The song’s success also helped pave the way for Trina’s career in the 2000s, making her one of the defining figures in Southern hip-hop.
5. Salt-N-Pepa – “Shoop”
Though Salt-N-Pepa began their career in the late ’80s, they remained incredibly influential in the 2000s. “Shoop,” a track from their 1993 album Very Necessary, continued to receive airplay in the 2000s. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy hook made it an evergreen hit. The lyrics are fun and flirtatious, and Salt-N-Pepa’s delivery is confident and effortless. “Shoop” became one of the group’s most successful songs, and its popularity continued to define the rap scene as the 2000s progressed, proving Salt-N-Pepa’s timeless presence in the genre.
6. Foxy Brown – “Oh Yeah!”
Foxy Brown’s 2001 hit “Oh Yeah!” showcases her commanding presence in the rap world. With its infectious beat and Foxy’s bold, unrelenting flow, the track became a staple in early 2000s hip-hop. The song’s hook is catchy, while Foxy’s delivery is fierce and confident, as she asserts her place as one of the top female rappers. “Oh Yeah!” helped solidify Foxy’s career during a time when female rappers were starting to become major players in the genre, proving that she could stand toe-to-toe with the best of them.
7. Remy Ma – “Conceited”
Released in 2004, “Conceited” became one of Remy Ma’s signature hits. The track is a perfect showcase of her sharp, confident lyricism and bold delivery. “Conceited” is a braggadocious anthem in which Remy Ma declares her superiority and asserts her place as a dominant force in the rap game. The track’s catchy hook and confident tone made it an instant hit, further cementing Remy’s status as a leading female rapper. “Conceited” was a critical moment in Remy Ma’s career, helping her rise to prominence in the 2000s.
8. Trina – “Pull Over”
Trina’s 2000 hit “Pull Over” is another anthem that showcases her bold and unapologetic style. The song is full of braggadocio, with Trina asserting her dominance and confidence. The lyrics are fun and catchy, while the beat is infectious and perfect for the club. “Pull Over” helped solidify Trina’s place as a queen of Southern rap and made her a standout figure in the 2000s hip-hop scene. The song’s impact was immediate, becoming a go-to track for anyone looking for a dose of confidence and fun.
9. Nicki Minaj – “Super Bass”
Nicki Minaj’s “Super Bass,” released in 2010, is one of the defining tracks of the 2000s and a major turning point in Minaj’s career. The song’s upbeat, catchy beat and Nicki’s fast-paced delivery made it an instant hit. The track’s colorful music video and playful lyrics helped it gain massive popularity. “Super Bass” solidified Nicki Minaj’s place as a top-tier rapper and introduced her to a wider audience. It became a pop culture phenomenon and remains one of her signature songs, marking the beginning of her reign as one of the biggest rap stars of the next decade.
10. Khia – “My Neck, My Back (Lick It)”
Khia’s 2002 track “My Neck, My Back (Lick It)” was a bold and provocative anthem that captured the attention of listeners everywhere. The song’s unapologetically sexual lyrics, combined with Khia’s confident delivery, made it an instant hit in clubs and on the radio. The track’s raw and unfiltered nature made it a standout in a time when female rappers were often expected to soften their message. “My Neck, My Back” remains a staple in hip-hop culture for its audacity, confidence, and unforgettable hook.
See Also: 9 Steps to Make a Rap Beat on Chrome Music Lab
Conclusion
The 2000s were a defining decade for female rap artists, and these women played a crucial role in shaping the direction of hip-hop. From Missy Elliott’s innovative beats to Lil’ Kim’s daring lyrics, the era was full of powerful female voices that helped propel rap into mainstream success. Each of these artists brought something unique to the genre, whether it was bold lyricism, catchy hooks, or unforgettable personalities. These 2000s female rap hits continue to inspire and influence artists today, proving that women in rap have always been a force to be reckoned with.
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