In Puerto Rico, the history of female rappers is closely linked to the evolution of rap and reggaeton on the island, but also to New York’s hip hop culture.
In the 1980s, the Afro-Caribbean community in Puerto Rico, hand in hand with the African-American community, built the hip hop culture that would inspire an entire generation on the island.
Artists such as Vico C, Brewley MC, Lisa M, and DJ Negro played an essential role in establishing Spanish-language rap and integrating it into the local and international music scene. Women also played a key role, although this is often downplayed or overlooked.
Lisa M
Lisa M, an undisputed legend of Puerto Rican rap, was one of the first women to take the mic. A pioneer since the late 1980s, she fuses rap and Caribbean rhythms with hits such as “Trampa” and “No lo derrumbes.” She paved the way for new generations of female rappers, inspiring them to take the mic and tell their own stories.
Ivy Queen
Since the mid-1990s, Ivy Queen has been a central figure in the rap and reggaeton scene, distinguishing herself with her powerful lyrics and her ability to open up spaces for women in a predominantly male genre.
Albums such as Sentimiento (2007) and Drama Queen (2010) are testament to her legacy and impact.
Joseline Hernandez
Originally from Ponce, Joseline Hernandez conquered US television thanks to her appearance on the show Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta. Since then, the rapper and singer has been exploring her musicality, fusing rap, reggaeton, and dancehall with bilingual lyrics that reflect her identity, establishing herself as a key figure on the scene.
Young Miko
Young Miko is one of the most popular and internationally recognized Puerto Rican female rappers. She began her career in 2019, collaborating with renowned artists and performing at international festivals. She represents a new wave of women who are not content with just rapping, but are also poets and inspiring role models.
Villano Antillano
Born in Bayamón, Villano Antillano identifies as transgender and non-binary (pronouns: she/they). Using her music as a weapon to fight discrimination and promote equality, she has managed to make her voice heard around the world.
Her participation in BZRP Music Sessions #51 not only propelled her to fame, but also highlighted the importance of LGBTQ+ representation in this music.
La Duraca
With her bold style and straightforward lyrics, La Duraca has established herself as one of the key figures in Caribbean reggaeton and rap. The artist embodies this new generation of women who are challenging conventions and claiming their place in the industry.
Alexxa Kim
Alexxa Kim has taken the Puerto Rican underground scene by storm with her relentless flow and sharp vocal technique. Known for her collaborations with artists such as Jon Z, this emerging rapper is challenging the status quo of rap and trap.
Nesi
From her viral freestyles to her collaborations with Bad Bunny, Nesi has quickly made a name for herself on the trap and rap scene. With her unique flow and powerful lyrics, she has become an essential voice on the scene, standing out with her own distinctive style.
