Feminist, socially conscious, and united, the Chilean female rap scene is one of the most creative and dynamic in the world. To date, Madame Rap lists 83 artists, making Chile the ninth country with the highest number of female rappers.
Female rap in Chile emerged in the 1990s, parallel to the broader development of Chilean hip hop. While the early Chilean rap scene was dominated by male groups like Tiro de Gracia, women began to carve out their own space, often using rap as a vehicle for social commentary and personal expression.
Ana Tijoux is widely recognized as the most influential pioneer of female rap in Chile. Born in France to Chilean parents in exile, she returned to Chile in the early 1990s and became involved in Santiago’s underground hip hop scene.
She first gained attention as the lead MC of Makiza, a group known for its thoughtful lyrics and innovative sound, which stood out for avoiding the machismo and violence common in much of the genre at the time. Makiza’s 1999 album Aerolineas Makiza became a landmark in Latin American hip hop. Tijoux’s subsequent solo career further cemented her legacy, especially with her internationally acclaimed album 1977 (2010).
As the scene grew, more female rappers began to gain visibility. In the 2000s and 2010s, artists like Flor de Rap emerged, known for her unique style and powerful lyrics, addressing personal and social issues. Flor de Rap has built a loyal fanbase both in Chile and internationally.
The landscape has shifted significantly in recent years, with female rappers not only participating but also leading and shaping the direction of the Chilean scene. Their lyrics are known for being raw, confrontational, and deeply rooted in social justice and feminist activism.
This rise reflects broader trends in the country’s music and culture, where diversity and activism are increasingly valued. Social media and streaming platforms have played a key role in amplifying their voices and connecting them with new audiences.
To get a glimpse of this vibrant scene, here are 10 Chilean female rappers you should have on your radar.
With:
- Ana Tijoux
- Flor de Rap
- Suppra
- Ambar Luna
- Aly Mayely
- Zita Zoe
- Señorita Chu
- RVYO
- Flowyn
- 22Ruzz
