American rapper Missy Elliott makes history

Missy Elliott, the iconic rapper, producer, and writer, has become the first-ever female rapper to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. The announcement was made on May 4, 2023, marking the latest achievement in Elliott’s illustrious career.

The 51-year-old took to Twitter to express her excitement and gratitude at the honor, saying,

“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.”

Missy Elliott added that she couldn’t “stop crying,” noting, “I am from Portsmouth Virginia aka P-Town.. #757 to 804 I send my love … You day dream of these moments but today it’s Real … VA 2 up 2 down the 7 Cities all my folk I am GRATEFUL.”

Missy Elliott also expressed her appreciation for the recognition, saying,

“It’s times I have gotten online & seen your irrelevant your a flop your washed up & it would crush me at times. BUT God you made me STRONG I kept going & you allowed my decades of WORK to SPEAK 4 itself.” She added, “Thank you all my Supporters… I LOVE YOU.”

Elliott’s induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is a significant achievement, as she has made a huge impact on the music industry over the years. In addition to her successful solo career, she has produced and written for numerous artists, including the late Aaliyah and Diddy.

The Lose Control singer was congratulated by her peers, including Ciara and Janet Jackson, upon announcement of the honors.

Jackson said,

“I’m SO proud of you sis!!!!” while Ciara said, “Congratulations to my sis @MissyElliott on being inducted into the @rockhall!! You deserve it all! Will never stop thanking you for the inspiration you give us all! I love you so much!”

Elliott’s induction is part of a larger group of artists who were recognized by the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, including Kate Bush, Sheryl Crow, George Michael, Rage Against the Machine, and the Spinners. Chaka Khan is also set to receive the Musical Excellence Award.

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Chairman John Sykes spoke about Elliott’s induction, saying,

“Missy Elliott got in first ballot, just like Eminem got in first ballot last year and Jay-Z the year before. So if there’s a throughline we’re seeing, it shows the power of hip-hop music culture now, as if we didn’t know it already, as far as how quickly these artists are being recognized on the first ballot.”

Overall, Elliott’s induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is a testament to her immense talent and the impact she has had on the music industry, particularly as a female rapper. It is a well-deserved honor that marks a significant milestone in her career.