A Legendary Lineup: Who Made the Top 10?
The ranking features hip-hop royalty, with trailblazers and cultural icons securing their rightful spots:
1. Nicki Minaj
2. Missy Elliott
3. Lauryn Hill
4. Lil’ Kim
5. Queen Latifah
6. MC Lyte
7. Salt-N-Pepa
8. Roxanne Shanté
9. Eve
10. Foxy Brown
Notably, Minaj’s modern-day peers— Cardi B (#11) and Megan Thee Stallion (#15) —landed outside the top 10, sparking debates among fans. While both have dominated charts and won Grammys, Billboard’s ranking emphasizes longevity, influence, and cultural impact —areas where Minaj’s 15-year reign gives her an edge.
The Grammy Paradox: A Queen Without a Crown?
Despite being hailed as the best female rapper ever, Nicki Minaj has yet to win a Grammy—a fact that continues to baffle fans. Meanwhile, Cardi B (Best Rap Album, 2019) and Megan Thee Stallion (Best Rap Performance and Best New Artist, 2021) have both taken home golden gramophones.
This discrepancy has reignited discussions about awards vs. legacy, with many arguing that Minaj’s record-breaking streams, chart dominance, and influence on a generation of rappers outweigh trophy counts.
Why Nicki’s #1 Spot Makes Sense
Record-Breaking Success: The first female rapper with 100+ million RIAA-certified units, thanks to hits like Super Bass, Anaconda, and Starships.
Cultural Impact: From fashion to slang, Minaj reshaped hip-hop’s landscape, paving the way for today’s female rap explosion.
Versatility: Seamlessly switching between hardcore rap (Monster), pop crossovers (Bang Bang), and emotional lyricism (Pills N Potions).
Fan Reactions: Celebration and Controversy
While Barbz (Minaj’s fanbase) celebrated the ranking, some questioned the placements, particularly Lauryn Hill at #3 (given The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill’s timeless impact) and Cardi B’s #11 spot (despite her record-breaking Bodak Yellow and WAP success).
Final Verdict: A Win for Hip-Hop History
Whether fans agree with every ranking or not, Billboard’s list reinforces that female rappers have always been forces in hip-hop —from the golden era pioneers to today’s chart-toppers. And at the top? Nicki Minaj, the undisputed queen who redefined what it means to be a woman in rap.
Do you agree with Billboard’s ranking? Who’s your GOAT female rapper? Drop your thoughts in the comments! 🎤🔥