Hottest Female Rappers – New and Old School Rappers (2024)
Women are dominating hip hop right in 2024, and that wave of momentum isn’t slowing down. So here’s a list of the hottest female rappers that have helped shape the genre for years, and are also pushing rap music forward.
Who Are Considered the Hottest Female Rappers?
There are five items of criteria I used to determine the best female rappers for this list:
Lyricism: I looked at the complexity, creativity, and depth of each rapper’s lyrics. I also look for wordplay, metaphors, storytelling, and overall skill in crafting verses.
Flow: I assessed each rapper’s ability to ride the beat smoothly and rhythmically. Variations in cadence, delivery, and overall flow dynamics were considered.
Originality: I looked for unique styles, perspectives, and approaches to hip hop. I considered how the artist stands out from others in terms of sound, image, and overall artistic vision.
Impact: I also considered the rapper’s influence on hip hop culture, both within African American culture and the larger pop culture. I also factored in if a female rapper was socially conscious or merely sought a more mainstream approach to their music.
Sex Appeal: Hip hop is not just an auditory medium, it’s also a visual one. Female rappers, especially these days, can exude sex appeal. So I factored in a rapper’s physical attraction, including her ability to be very sexy in her music videos.
New Female Rappers Crushing Hip Hop
Ice Spice
Ice Spice, known for her unique hairdo and catchy tracks like “Munch” and “In Ha Mood,” gained recognition in the rap scene in 2022. Nominated for four Grammy awards, Ice Spice’s body of work reflects her versatility and talent.
Despite her unconventional appearance (big red hair), Ice Spice’s music resonates with younger audiences, earning her widespread acclaim and success in the industry.
With her promising career, Ice Spice continues to push boundaries and captivate listeners with her youthful energy.
Sexyy Red
Sexyy Red’s rise in hip hop has been rapid, but not without controversy, particularly regarding her comments about Donald Trump.
In late 2023, she expressed support for Trump, citing his distribution of stimulus checks as a reason.
“Yeah, they support him in the hood. At first I don’t think people was f–king with him. They thought he was racist, saying little s–t against women. But once he started getting Black people out of jail and giving people that free money. Aww baby, we love Trump. We need him back in office. We need him back because, baby, them checks. Them stimulus checks. Trump, we miss you.”
These remarks indicate a shift in hip hop culture away from its traditional anti-establishment stance, which may be concerning to some.
Despite the controversy surrounding her Trump comments, Sexyy Red’s popularity has continued to grow. She even won the Best New Artist award at the 2024 XXL Awards.
If you’re unfamiliar with Sexyy Red’s music, her song “Pound Town” is one of her most well-known tracks.
Young Female Rappers Dominating Hip Hop
While not considered completely brand new, here’s a list of the young female MCs that are dominating hip hop.
Nadia Nakai
Do you agree that Nadia Nakai stands out as one of today’s most attractive female rappers?
In today’s global hip hop scene, a genre that originated in American inner cities has garnered widespread love and adoption worldwide.
So it seems fitting that Nadia Nakai, arguably one of the most physically and lyrically captivating female rappers on this list, is the one I’m eagerly anticipating to see further grow in popularity.
Nadia made her mark with her debut studio album “Nadia Naked” in 2019, and her talent was recognized with two AFRIMA awards that same year, including Best Artist, Duo, or Group in African Hip Hop and Best Female Artist in Southern Africa.
Sadly, tragedy struck when her partner, South African rapper AKA, was tragically killed in early 2023, with his posthumous album “Mass Country” released thereafter.
Still, Nadia seems to have the full package and it’ll be exciting to see how her career unfolds from here.
Megan Thee Stallion
Megan Thee Stallion, a native rapper, inherited her passion for music from her mother, a rapper known as “Holly-Wood.”
Raised in a musical environment, Megan honed her craft from a young age, though her mother encouraged her to wait until adulthood before pursuing a serious rap career due to the explicit nature of her early lyrics.
With Grammy-winning success, Megan’s dynamic stage presence and hit collaborations have solidified her status as one of hip hop’s leading female artists. Her academic pursuits alongside her rap career highlight her multifaceted talents.
On top of that, Megan Thee Stallion creates some of the hottest music videos in hip hip that exude strength and sex appeal.
Saweetie
Saweetie, also an educated rapper, emerged from the Bay Area and holds a degree in communications from the University of Southern California.
Her breakthrough came with the viral hit “ICY GRL,” which cleverly sampled Khia’s “My Neck, My Back.”
Saweetie’s brand has even crossed over into her distinctive eating habits, culminating in collaborations with fast food brands like McDonald’s.
Beyond her music, Saweetie’s close-knit family ties and famous relatives, including rapper MC Hammer and actress Gabrielle Union, add depth to her public persona.
Cardi B
Cardi B, originally gaining attention through reality TV, quickly rose to fame with her breakout hit “Bodak Yellow.”
Her unapologetic attitude and raw talent propelled her to the top of the rap game, earning her accolades like the Grammy Award for Best Rap Album for “Invasion of Privacy.”
Beyond her music career, Cardi’s outspokenness and political engagement showcase her passion for societal change, as well.
Despite her success, Cardi remains grounded, emphasizing her Bronx roots and relatable persona. Her journey from social media personality to rap superstar epitomizes the American dream.
Finally, like Megan Thee Stallion, Cardi B shuts down the internet any time she drops a sexy new music video.
City Girls
Comprising of Yung Miami and JT, the City Girls rose to prominence with their bold, unapologetic tracks.
Despite JT’s temporary incarceration, the duo’s collaboration with notable artists, and viral hits like “Twerk,” have cemented their place in the modern rap scene.
Both Yung Miami and JT’s personal and professional lives have garnered attention, further elevating their status as rising stars in hip hop. Yung Miami’s fame has grown so quickly, she even has her own reality show.
Iggy Azalea
Iggy Azalea often faces criticism from hip hop enthusiasts, and it’s understandable.
In an ideal scenario, a revered rapper in hip hop exudes authenticity. However, Iggy hails from Australia, leading many to rightfully question her authenticity.
So while I take points off for Iggy’s originality and ever lyricism, it’s hard to deny her sex appeal and pop cultural impact (fleeting as it was).
Despite the relatively short list of prominent white female rappers, Iggy has delivered several hit tracks that have garnered significant attention and praise with white audiences.
Moreover, Iggy’s attractiveness contributes to her appeal as a female rapper—so much so that she has even ventured onto platforms like OnlyFans.
Lizzo
It’s disheartening how much attention Lizzo’s physical appearance or wardrobe choices get compared to her talent.
Many artists feel pressured to rely on gimmicks to stay relevant, but Lizzo stands out by focusing on her musical prowess.
Her debut album “Cuz I Love You” in 2019 garnered widespread acclaim, though I personally took notice of her earlier EP “Coconut Oil” and the hit track “Good As Hell.”
What’s remarkable about Lizzo is her versatility. Not only is her music creatively produced and fresh, but her rapping, often bold and confident, is complemented by a playful energy and captivating singing that transcends the label of just being a “rapper.”
Doja Cat
In 2024, Doja Cat is considered a sex symbol in hip hop. But that wasn’t always the case, especially when her very first (and quite silly) song originally came out.
In 2018, Doja Cat’s fame surged with her viral hit “MOO!” – a meme song that became iconic.
What sets Doja apart is her unparalleled originality. Her quirky online presence makes her incredibly relatable, down-to-earth, and humorous for her fans.
Often sharing entertaining content on TikTok, she connects with her audience on a personal level, making them forget she’s an attractive celebrity.
Doja Cat boasts remarkable versatility, showcasing a strong singing voice and impressive dance skills. Doja Cat has had collaborations with artists like J.I.D, Ariana Grande, and The Weeknd.
Gigi Lamayne
Gigi Lamayne is a South African female rapper known for her unique style and charm.
It’s surprising that one of the most attractive female rappers hails from South Africa and even sports braces—yet that’s precisely what makes Gigi Lamayne stand out.
Her album, “Set In Stone,” features collaborations with artists like Don Calya and Vugar M Beats.
For a blend of sexiness and festive cheer, check out her track and music video titled “Ho Ho Ho.”
Dreezy
Dreezy stands out as one of the most underrated female rappers in the game, despite her versatility and emotive lyricism.
Her albums “No Hard Feelings,” “Big Dreez,” and collaboration album “HITGIRL” showcase her ability to seamlessly transition between hard-hitting rap and soulful R&B-infused tracks.
Dreezy’s talent lies in her ability to deliver emotionally impactful verses while demonstrating her vocal prowess, making her a force to be reckoned with in the rap game.
Rapsody
Now Rapsody stands out as one of the most thought-provoking female rappers in hip-hop. Mainstream rap often adheres to clichés, but artists like Kendrick Lamar challenge listeners with introspective content.
Rapsody, though less renowned than her peers like Cardi B or Megan Thee Stallion, delivers both intellectually stimulating and high-quality music.
Since her EP “Beauty and the Beast” dropped in 2014, Rapsody has released another EP and two studio albums. Notably, her album dedicated to inspiring black women showcases her respectful approach to the rap game.
Her intentional lyrics and emotional resonance draw comparisons to late 1990s Lauryn Hill. Simply put, Rapsody’s albums are a must-listen for any rap enthusiast.
Rico Nasty
Rico Nasty, born Maria Kelly, brings a distinctive punk rock-inspired style to the rap scene.
Her fusion of punk and rap fills a void in mainstream representation, offering black audiences a relatable icon in alternative music.
Rico’s journey into rap began at a young age, and despite personal tragedies, she pursued her passion with determination.
With breakout hits like “Smack A B****,” Rico gained mainstream recognition, releasing albums like “Tales of Tacobella” and “Nasty.” Her unique style and resilience have solidified her status as an original force in rap.
She has since released albums such as Nasty, Anger Management, Nightmare Vacation, and Las Ruinas. Unfortunately, Rico’s anticipated mixtape “Rx” was scrapped.
Young MA
Young MA, a hardcore NYC rapper, began honing her craft at the age of 10. Although originally from East New York, she spent part of her childhood in Virginia before returning to NYC for high school.
After graduating in 2010, she gained local recognition but opted to stay independent, avoiding major labels. Her breakout hit “OOOUUU” went viral in 2016, propelling her to fame.
Young MA’s debut studio album “Herstory in the Making” reached the Billboard top 20 in 2019, followed by “Off the Yak” in 2021.
Known for her confidence and versatility, Young MA’s tough raps resonate with fans, showcasing her dedication to the craft. Beyond music, she’s a philanthropist, founding the KWEENZ Foundation to support East New York residents dealing with loss.
Qveen Herby
Qveen Herby, formerly part of the Boston-based duo Karmin, made a significant career shift. Originally known as Amy, she gained popularity with catchy cover songs in the early 2000s.
Despite her success with Karmin, Amy transitioned into “Qveen Herby,” embracing a colorful persona reminiscent of Nicki Minaj. Her elaborate style and surreal music videos set her apart, although some fans miss her earlier, simpler identity.
Nevertheless, Qveen Herby’s talent shines through, evident in her transition from Karmin to her current rap persona. Tracks like “Busta Rhymes” showcase her evolving style and musical prowess, as well.
BIA
BIA, also known as “Hollywood,” gained attention with her 2018 single “Hollywood” from the album “NICE GIRLS FINISH LAST: CUIDADO.” Before her breakout, she appeared on the reality show “Sisterhood of Hip Hop” in 2014.
Inspired by her early exposure to the rap scene, BIA pursued a career in music, eventually earning viral success with tracks like “Whole Lotta Money.”
Collaborating with Nicki Minaj on a remix further elevated her status in the industry, as well.
Her journey from the streets to stardom resonates with fans, and her energetic style continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
Tierra Whack
Tierra Whack, known for her unconventional style, began her musical journey as “Dizzle Dizz” before adopting her birth name in 2017. Writing poetry from a young age, Tierra’s creativity blossomed into quirky tracks like “Mumbo Jumbo” and “Toe Jam.”
Her album “Whack World” received acclaim for its innovative one-minute tracks and eccentric visuals, showcasing her versatility as an artist. Grounded in Philadelphia, Tierra’s unique approach to rap defies conventions, earning her a dedicated fan base.
I feel that Tierra’s theatrical creativity draws comparisons to icons like Missy Elliot, solidifying her status as one of rap’s most intriguing talents.
Coi Leray
Coi Leray, hailing from New Jersey, blends tough lyrics with melodic hooks, captivating audiences with her energetic delivery.
Rising to prominence with tracks like “Huddy,” Coi’s distinct style resonates with fans seeking empowerment and authenticity.
Despite personal challenges, including her parents’ divorce and dropping out of high school, Coi’s resilience shines through in her music. Her recent viral success on TikTok with “TWINNEM” further solidifies her position as a rising star in the rap scene.
Latto
Formerly known as Miss Mulatto, Latto’s journey to rap stardom began with her win on Jermaine Dupri’s reality show “The Rap Game” in 2016.
Despite early success, she faced criticism for her stage name’s offensive connotations, prompting a rebrand to “Latto.”
Her debut album “Queen of Da Souf” catapulted her to fame, with hits like “B**** From Da Souf” showcasing her talent and versatility.
Despite controversies, Latto remains a force in the industry, with recent hits like “Big Energy” solidifying her status as a rising rap queen.
Azealia Banks
Azealia Banks, known for her talent and controversy, emerged as one of rap’s most influential figures.
Graduating from the same high school as Nicki Minaj, Azealia’s unique blend of rap and ballroom beats earned her widespread acclaim.
Despite social media controversies, Azealia’s resilience and loyal fan base have propelled her career forward. With hits like “1991” and “Broke With Expensive Taste,” she continues to push boundaries. And people’s buttons.
Princess Nokia
Princess Nokia, with her punk-metal rap style, defies traditional rap norms, embracing her multifaceted identity.
Originally performing as “Wavy Spice,” she gained recognition with her single “Destiny” in 2010.
Her versatility as an artist, from traditional hip hop to punk influences, sets her apart in the rape game. A strong advocate for intersectional feminism, Princess Nokia’s philanthropic efforts and social commentary resonate with women everywhere.
Kash Doll
Kash Doll, rising from her roots as an exotic dancer, signed with Republic Records, releasing hits like “Stacked” in 2019. Despite controversies over her age, Kash Doll’s high-energy style and gritty lyrics have earned her a dedicated fan base.
Her authenticity and perseverance, despite personal challenges, showcase her resilience as an artist. With recent hits like “Buss It,” Kash Doll continues to make waves in the rap scene.
Baby Tate
Baby Tate, formerly known as Yung Baby Tate, hails from Decatur, Georgia, bringing vibrant bars and infectious hooks to the rap music.
Raised in a creative family, she began making music at age 10, eventually gaining viral success with tracks like “I Am.”
Her empowering message and celebration of body positivity resonate with fans worldwide. With recent projects like “After the Rain,” Baby Tate continues to push boundaries, solidifying her status as a rising young female rapper in the business.
Flo Milli
Flo Milli, born and raised in Mobile, Alabama, burst onto the rap scene with her viral hit “Beef FloMix” in 2018. Known for her confident delivery and materialistic lyrics, Flo Milli’s signature tagline has become iconic.
Her debut mixtape “Ho, Why Is You Here” garnered widespread acclaim, showcasing her unique style and versatility. With hits like “Roaring 20s,” Flo Milli continues to captivate audiences with her infectious energy and bold personality.
Erica Banks
Erica Banks, signed to 1501 Certified Entertainment, rose to fame with viral hits like “Buss it.”
Despite controversies surrounding her label, Erica’s talent and originality have earned her a loyal fan base.
Her viral success on TikTok propelled her into the spotlight, with hits like “Buss it” reaching gold status. Despite any challenges, Erica remains focused on her music. It’ll be fun to witness how her career continue to unfold.
Leikeli47
Leikeli47, a rapper from New York, is known for her unique style of hiding her face behind a bandana, allowing her raps to speak for themselves. Growing up in Brooklyn, she faced bullying and described herself as shy.
Despite her shyness, Leikeli47 found her passion for music at an early age. Her debut album “Wash & Set,” released in 2017, explores themes of empowerment, identity, and beauty.
What sets Leikeli47 apart is her decision to conceal her face, creating a space where fans focus on her message rather than her appearance.
Enny
Enny, a UK-based rapper of Nigerian heritage, initially pursued a career in the film industry before transitioning to music. Her breakout hit “Peng Black Girls,” released in 2020, gained popularity with a remix featuring Jorja Smith.
Known for her introspective lyrics and smooth R&B feel, Enny’s music resonates with fans, earning her nominations and recognition in the UK rap scene.
Her debut project “Under 25,” released in 2021, further solidified her status as an integral rapper in the UK. In 2023, Enny released a new EP entitled “We Go Again.”
Lil Simz
Lil Simz, a London-based rapper, delivers introspective and experimental music that resonates with listeners. Since releasing her first mixtape in 2010, she has garnered acclaim and accolades, including the BBC DJ Gilles Peterson’s Breakthrough Artist of the Year award.
Her album “A Curious Tale of Trials + Persons,” released in 2015, received widespread praise as well.
Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Lil Simz continued to produce music, culminating in her fourth full-length project “Sometimes I Might Be Introvert” in 2021.
By the end of 2022, Lil Simz would drop yet another album entitled “No Thank You.”
Maliibu Mitch
Maliibu Mitch, raised in the South Bronx, found success with her single “Give Her Some Money” in 2018.
Despite a tumultuous adolescence, including involvement in selling drugs and joining a gang, Mitch pursued a career in music.
Initially aspiring to be a model, she transitioned to rapping and formed the duo Maliibu N Helene before embarking on a solo career. Collaborating with artists like Bree Runaway, Maliibu Mitch draws inspiration from rap icons like Jadakiss and Nicki Minaj.
Queen Key
Queen Key, a rapper from Chicago, gained recognition with tracks like “Hit A Lic” and “Baked as a Pie” on SoundCloud. Her mainstream breakthrough came with the release of her EP “Eat My P****” in 2018.
Despite becoming a mother to triplets in early 2020, Queen Key continues to pursue her music career, documenting her journey through vlogs on YouTube. Her raw and unapologetic style resonates with fans, solidifying her status a young rap star on the rise.
Bbymutha
Bbymutha, a mother of four from Chattanooga, Tennessee, found success within underground hip hop with her viral hit “Rules” in 2017. Known for her colorful wigs and fairy-like aesthetic, Bbymutha’s persona reflects her experiences as a single mother.
Her album “Muthaland,” released in 2020, showcases her unique style and perspective as well. Beyond music, Bbymutha operates Mutha Magick Apothecary, offering products inspired by her interest in magic and spirituality.
Doechii
Doechii, originally from Tampa, Florida, gained recognition with her bright and versatile style in 2018. With hits like “Girls” and “Spookie Coochie,” Doechii’s bubblegum appeal and old-school flow captivate listeners.
Her track “Yucky Blucky Fruitcake” went viral on TikTok in 2021, further solidifying her mainstream credibility. Collaborating with artists like Isaiah Rashad, Doechii continues to push boundaries in the rap scene, showcasing her star quality and confidence.
Noname
Noname, known for her smooth and introspective style, gained prominence with her mixtape “Telefone” in 2016. Despite rumors of retirement, Noname continues to craft music that addresses themes of racism, self-hate, and anxiety.
Her calm yet poignant delivery sets her apart as a great younger voice in hip hop. Noname’s smooth operator style resonates with fans, earning her critical acclaim and recognition in the industry.
At times, she can almost come across like a Jill Scott with great flow and rhyming ability. Other times, on a song like Blaxploitation, her delivery is so calm, so quick, and so buttery smooth that you almost don’t even realize she addressed topics of racism, self-hate and anxiety in 10 seconds flat.
Old School Female Rappers That Paved the Way
Nicki Minaj
Nicki Minaj, a cultural icon and rap royalty, has dominated the industry for over a decade.
Originally from Trinidad, Nicki’s journey to rap supremacy began in Southside Jamaica, Queens. Despite early aspirations in acting, Nicki’s rap talent propelled her to stardom with hits like “Pink Friday.”
Known for her brazen nature and iconic style, Nicki has carved her own path in rap, collaborating with industry elites and influencing a generation of artists. Her impact extends beyond music, making her a pivotal figure in contemporary pop culture.
Finally, Nicki Minaj took sexy hip hop videos to the next level. When a new Nicki video dropped, it was appointment television (or YouTube, I guess).
Lil’ Kim
Lil’ Kim, known as the Queen Bee of Hip Hop, rose to prominence in the 1990s with her biting lyrics and provocative fashion sense. Despite her connection to Biggie Smalls, she established herself as a musical icon with albums like “Hard Core.”
Her trailblazing career paved the way for future female rappers like Nicki Minaj and Cardi B. With her racy album covers and undeniable talent, Lil’ Kim remains one of the sexiest and most influential female rappers of all time.
Foxy Brown
Foxy Brown, rising to fame alongside Lil’ Kim in the 1990s, showcased her talent and beauty through hits like “Ill Na Na” and “Chyna Doll.” With a name inspired by Blaxploitation, Foxy Brown established herself as a force to be reckoned with in hip hop.
Her identifiable voice and collaborations with rap giants solidified her status as one of the best in the game. Foxy Brown’s blend of beauty and talent left an indelible mark on the rap scene of the 1990s.
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