One of the rap industry's most influential female rappers, Queen Latifah appeared on the scene in 1989. Boasting a strong female consciousness that spread like wildfire, Latifah's material oftentimes addressed political and feminist issues.

Born Dana Owens in Newark, N.J., she adapted the name Latifah, which signifies sensitivity or delicacy, from the Arabic language. Getting her start in a all-female rap outfit named Ladies Fresh, she recorded a single in 1988 called "Wrath of My Madness." This led to the release of her debut album, All Hail the Queen. Issued in 1989, the album concentrated on a variety of musical components, including soul, dub reggae, hip-hop and dance. The album sold well as fans from several musical backgrounds could relate well to her messages. Continued success ensued with Nature of a Sista, released in 1991.

As her popularity grew, due largely in part to her role on the television sitcom, "Living Single," she was hard at work at her most successful album to date. Black Reign, released in 1993 in honor of her late brother who was killed in an accident. The album spawned several hit singles, including the single "U.N.I.T.Y, " which earned Queen Latifah a Grammy for Best Rap Solo Performance.