The rap industry was once as male-dominated as the best online casinos industry. But, now that the world is more liberal, women can take a part in these revolutionary industries as well. In fact, they’re making some of the biggest names in music today. Here are female rappers who have made their mark on the rap game and how it has changed over time.

Missy Elliot

Missy Elliott was born Mary Lovett and lived in Virginia with her parents when she was young. Her family moved to New York City when she was 12, but not before she got into trouble at school for wearing too much makeup. She later dropped out of high school and attended the Fashion Institute of Technology for one year. It wasn’t until she met Fab Five Freddy (a DJ) at a club that she decided to pursue her passion for hip hop. The two became close friends and soon began working together. They would go on to work with other artists such as Salt N Pepa and De La Soul.

Queen Latifah

Before Queen Latifah even released any solo albums, she did a few projects under various artist’s names including Sugarhill Gang to Public Enemy. When she started out, rapping was mostly about creating party anthems and having fun. However, as her career grew things began to change. With songs like “Ladies First” and “Upright Citizen’s Brigade,” Latifah took her career seriously.

Mary J Blige

Born in Southfield Michigan in 1960, Mary Jane Blige never considered herself to be a rapper or a singer. However, after joining group 112, she ended up teaming up with them to write a song called “Love & Happiness.” This led to an opportunity for her to join the R&B group TLC. Once there, she produced a couple of successful singles including “Unpretty”. Then, she joined LL Cool J and they formed Big Tyme Records.