Grime music, originating in East London in the early 2000s, is one of the most influential and evolving genres in UK music. While grime is often associated with male MCs, female artists have played a pivotal role in the genre’s growth and success. Over the years, women in grime have shown their unique talents, breaking stereotypes and making their voices heard in a male-dominated industry. They bring diverse styles, powerful lyrics, and unmatched energy to the scene, proving that grime is not just a male domain.
This article celebrates the female UK grime rappers who have made significant contributions to the genre, showcasing their best tracks. These women are known for their sharp lyrics, raw delivery, and ability to command attention. From pioneers who paved the way to the rising stars pushing the genre forward, these artists highlight the diversity and strength of women in grime. If you’re new to grime or looking to explore more female voices within the scene, these recommended tracks will provide a comprehensive introduction.
12 Prominent Female UK Grime Rappers to Follow
1. Lady Leshurr – “Queen’s Speech 4”
Lady Leshurr is one of the most well-known female grime artists in the UK. “Queen’s Speech 4” is a perfect example of her lyrical prowess and ability to dominate a beat. Released in 2016, this track became a viral sensation, with Leshurr showcasing her ability to effortlessly switch between fast flows and witty wordplay. The song highlights her confidence, as she confidently claims her place as one of the queens of grime. The track’s infectious hook and humorous yet biting lyrics made it a fan favorite and a key moment in her career. “Queen’s Speech 4” is a testament to Lady Leshurr’s creativity, proving her unique place in the grime scene.
2. Ms Banks – “Back In”
Ms Banks is a talented rapper known for her hard-hitting lyrics and distinctive flow. “Back In,” from her 2018 The Coldest Winter Ever EP, is an example of her raw, unfiltered style. The track is filled with aggressive energy, with Banks delivering sharp verses over a heavy, minimalist beat. She stands out with her confident delivery and unapologetic lyrics, which touch on themes of success, independence, and resilience. “Back In” shows that Ms Banks is not afraid to speak her mind and take control of her narrative, solidifying her position as one of the top female grime rappers in the UK.
3. Shystie – “One Wish”
Shystie, a key figure in the early UK grime scene, has made a significant impact with her unique style. “One Wish,” from her 2004 Diamond in the Dirt album, is one of her standout tracks. The song has a laid-back but hard-hitting vibe, with Shystie’s smooth delivery contrasting with the aggressive production. The track discusses her desires and aspirations, with Shystie reflecting on the grind it takes to achieve success. The blend of melodic elements with raw grime production shows Shystie’s versatility, as she seamlessly transitions between different musical styles while maintaining her presence in the grime scene.
4. Missy – “Get Low”
Although Missy is better known in the American hip-hop scene, her influence on grime music cannot be denied. “Get Low,” a collaboration between Missy and the UK’s own grime artists, represents the blending of American hip-hop with UK grime. The song’s aggressive beat and Missy’s high-energy verses create a perfect backdrop for the grime artists to shine. While Missy herself is not a grime artist per se, her collaboration with UK talent shows her ability to influence grime’s sound. “Get Low” is a banger that combines both genres, with female MCs holding their own alongside male counterparts.
5. Stefflon Don – “16 Shots”
Stefflon Don is a multi-genre artist, but her roots in grime are clear. “16 Shots,” released in 2017, blends dancehall and grime elements, showcasing Stefflon Don’s versatility. The track’s hard-hitting beat, catchy hook, and confident lyrics made it an instant hit. In the song, Stefflon Don delivers a bold message about love, loyalty, and her rise to fame. Her effortless switch between rapid-fire delivery and more melodic sections demonstrates her range as an artist. “16 Shots” was a breakout moment for Stefflon Don, proving that she can master both grime and more commercial sounds, making her a standout in the UK music scene.
6. Lioness – “Give Em”
Lioness is another strong voice in the grime scene, known for her sharp lyrics and commanding presence. “Give Em,” from her 2016 Queen’s Speech 3 mixtape, is a track that showcases her ability to blend grime with elements of hip-hop. The track features a fast-paced, hard-hitting beat, with Lioness delivering her bars with confidence and precision. Her lyrics are a mixture of braggadocio and empowerment, reflecting the strength and resilience of a woman in the grime world. “Give Em” is a perfect introduction to Lioness’ sound, demonstrating her talent for storytelling while staying true to grime’s gritty, street-level roots.
7. Nadia Rose – “Skwod”
Nadia Rose is known for her charismatic delivery and unique approach to grime music. “Skwod,” a track from her 2016 Highly Flammable EP, is a celebration of female empowerment and unity. The song is filled with high-energy, catchy hooks, and sharp bars, with Nadia delivering her verses with playful aggression. The track’s infectious beat and memorable hook make it an anthem for the female grime community. “Skwod” is not just a song about unity, but also a declaration that Nadia Rose is here to stay, showing off her versatility in both grime and rap.
8. RoxXxan – “R U Down”
RoxXxan, known for her unique blend of grime, hip-hop, and experimental music, brings a different flavor to the scene. “R U Down,” a track from her 2014 RoxXxan EP, is one of her most notable songs. The track features a dark, atmospheric production, allowing RoxXxan’s raw and emotional delivery to take center stage. Her lyrics reflect vulnerability and a sense of self-awareness, a departure from the typical bravado often found in grime. “R U Down” shows RoxXxan’s range as an artist, blending heavy grime influences with more introspective, emotional themes.
9. Safiyyah – “Money”
Safiyyah is a rising star in the UK grime scene, known for her distinctive voice and slick flow. “Money,” from her 2018 Grime Time mixtape, is a hard-hitting track that showcases her raw talent. The song is built around a minimalistic beat, with Safiyyah’s delivery taking center stage. The track’s lyrics focus on themes of hustle, ambition, and financial success, all common topics in grime music. However, Safiyyah’s personal approach and delivery make the track stand out. “Money” is a declaration of intent from Safiyyah, proving that she is a force to be reckoned with in grime.
10. Lady Chann – “Rude Girl”
Lady Chann is one of the pioneering female voices in UK grime and dancehall, and her track “Rude Girl” showcases her distinct style. Released in 2009, the song features a mix of grime and dancehall rhythms, with Lady Chann delivering a powerful, energetic performance. The track’s lyrics are full of attitude and confidence, with Lady Chann asserting her place as a female MC in the male-dominated grime scene. “Rude Girl” is an anthem of empowerment, showcasing Lady Chann’s ability to bring a unique flair to grime while staying true to her roots in both genres.
11. Big Toes – “Shady”
Big Toes is an emerging talent in the grime scene, known for her bold delivery and aggressive lyrics. “Shady,” from her 2020 Grime Tings EP, is a track that showcases her ability to craft hard-hitting bars with confidence. The song’s production is dark and heavy, providing the perfect backdrop for Big Toes’ forceful presence. Her lyrics focus on themes of trust, betrayal, and street life, which resonate with the core of grime music. “Shady” proves that Big Toes has the ability to dominate a track, and she is one of the rising stars in the female grime scene.
12. Ay Em – “Work” ft. Little Simz
Ay Em is a versatile grime artist who blends elements of UK rap, trap, and grime in her music. “Work,” a collaboration with Little Simz, is a track that showcases Ay Em’s smooth flow and ability to create dynamic, catchy music. The song has a laid-back but intense vibe, with the production emphasizing deep bass and sharp percussion. Ay Em and Little Simz exchange verses with ease, creating a seamless collaboration that speaks to themes of hard work, hustle, and success. “Work” is a great introduction to Ay Em’s style, demonstrating her lyrical depth and ability to collaborate with other top-tier artists.
See Also: 20 Energizing Wake-Up Rap Tracks to Start Your Day Right
Conclusion
Female grime rappers have proven time and time again that they are an essential part of the genre’s evolution. These women bring authenticity, talent, and unique perspectives to grime music, which has traditionally been dominated by male artists. From the pioneers like Lady Leshurr and Shystie to the rising stars like Ms Banks and RoxXxan, female grime artists continue to break barriers and push the genre forward.
The tracks featured in this article offer a glimpse into the diverse range of female talent in the UK grime scene. Whether it’s through sharp lyricism, catchy hooks, or powerful deliveries, these women have shown that grime is not just a male-dominated genre but one that thrives on the contributions of female artists. As grime continues to evolve, the voices of these women will undoubtedly shape its future, inspiring the next generation of artists and listeners alike.
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