Renowned American rapper Nicki Minaj has been honored as the best female rapper of all time by Billboard. This recognition tops a list of 25 influential female hip-hop artists and was announced on Monday, April 7, 2025. Billboard’s list was curated using a comprehensive range of criteria, including chart performance, cultural impact, lyrical prowess, longevity in the industry, and flow.
Minaj’s illustrious career and groundbreaking achievements have left an indelible mark on hip-hop music. Billboard praised her extensive catalog and remarkable successes, highlighting her as a standout figure in the industry. Notably, she became the first female rapper to achieve over 100 entries on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 2018—a rare accomplishment for any artist—and her Pink Friday 2 World Tour set records as the highest-grossing tour ever by a female rapper.
Fifteen years after captivating the world with her verse on Kanye West’s “Monster” and debuting with the iconic Pink Friday album, Minaj continues to dominate the music scene. Billboard commended her for redefining the landscape for female rappers and shaping pop music along the way. Whether she’s performing as her various alter egos—Harajuku Barbie, Roman Zolanski, or Chun-Li—or simply as Onika, her influence on the genre is undeniable. Minaj’s impact on aspiring artists is evident, with many following the path she paved.
The announcement of Minaj as the all-time best has ignited online debates, eliciting a mix of support and criticism from fans and critics alike. Sharing the prestigious list with Minaj are other legendary female rappers, including Missy Elliott, Lauryn Hill, Lil’ Kim, and Queen Latifah.
Here’s a look at Billboard’s 25 Best Female Rappers of All Time:
1. Nicki Minaj
2. Missy Elliott
3. Lauryn Hill
4. Lil’ Kim
5. Queen Latifah
6. MC Lyte
7. Salt-N-Pepa
8. Roxanne Shante
9. Eve
10. Foxy Brown
11. Cardi B
12. Da Brat
13. Trina
14. Left Eye
15. Megan Thee Stallion
16. Doja Cat
17. Rapsody
18. Remy Ma
19. Latto
20. Monie Love
21. GloRilla
22. The
Source: https://www.ghanaweb.com
