Queen Latifah, the iconic rapper, actress, and cultural trailblazer, has added another historic achievement to her illustrious career by becoming the first female hip-hop artist to receive a Kennedy Center Honor. The Grammy, Emmy, and Golden Globe winner discovered this prestigious recognition while on the set of her CBS series, “The Equalizer,” joining a distinguished group of honorees, including Barry Gibb, Billy Crystal, Renée Fleming, and Dionne Warwick.
Reflecting on this milestone, Queen Latifah expressed gratitude for being part of the esteemed class of 2023 and acknowledged the inspiration she derived from fellow creatives. She highlighted the impact of legends like Barry Gibb, Renée Fleming, and Dionne Warwick on her artistic journey, emphasizing the diverse influences that have shaped her multifaceted career.
Queen Latifah, whose stage name was chosen at the age of 8 and means “delicate” and “very kind” in Arabic, emphasized the significance of hip-hop as an authentic American musical form. She underscored the cultural importance of hip-hop, akin to jazz and the blues, advocating for its broader embrace.
Having entered the music and entertainment scene dominated by men, Queen Latifah shattered barriers, becoming not only the first female crossover rap star but also the first female rapper to receive an Oscar nomination. Her impact extended beyond music, with notable achievements such as starring in the hit TV sitcom “Living Single,” earning an Academy Award nomination, hosting a talk show, and being honored on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Queen Latifah’s commitment to addressing social issues through her art, exemplified by the Grammy-winning “U.N.I.T.Y.,” showcased her dedication to reshaping hip-hop for women. Despite facing challenges, she remains resilient, emphasizing humility and confidence in navigating her remarkable career.
In Queen Latifah’s words, “Dana Owens has taken some hits through the years, you know? But we get up and we keep on trying.”
