Missy Elliot is an American Hip-Hop artist. Through the use of different schemes and effects in her music videos to the eccentric clothing she wore, Missy was at the forefront of empowering black women’s sexuality. She pushed boundaries that were not accessible to women in the Hip-Hop industry, which was male dominated, and created a lane where women can express themselves outside of societal norms and expectations. Missy Elliot was a woman but didn’t let the expectations of what society deemed correct stop her from being her true self, an innovator. She set the tone for all women to follow. She was different and controversial. Through her efforts and resilience many doors were opened. Today, it’s not weird or out of the norm to see a female hip hop artist or any women in particular in baggy eccentric clothing. This goes to show how accepting society can be with time and effort. It is okay to be different. It is ok to go outside the box. Nobody’s opinion matters but your own. Missy Elliot is not only an icon but also an inspiration to anyone who doesn’t agree with what is set about and wants to make a change in a positive way.
Missy Elliot was definitely a pioneer and trend setter. She is a true artist, she can rap, sing, and dance, and did it all without having to sexualize herself in a manner she was not comfortable with. I also agree with your statement: “She pushed boundaries that were not accessible to women in the Hip-Hop industry, which was male dominated, and created a lane where women can express themselves outside of societal norms and expectations.” I do think the industry has regressed in some aspects though. For example, I don’t think that Missy Elliot would be as popular now had she came out recently because now fans want more violent or sexually explicit lyrics from their favorite artists, or at least those are the songs that tend to garner more attention. So I am glad that she came out when she did and I wish more female artists would follow her example.
Hi Yuri, I really like your example of Missy Elliot because she is truly an icon and has influenced fashion/music trends for decades. She’s an incredible role model because she was able to push through so many boundaries in the industry and become a staple in music/fashion history.