In the year 2019, we are witnessing the re-emergence of women solidifying their role in the hip-hop music realm. It is so befitting for the 25th Essence Festival to pay homage and honor this historic culture with a celebration unlike any other. On July 4th, the Republic Nola hosted the inaugural Essence After Dark Series featuring Women In Hip-Hop. The venue was filled with a plethora of old school and a sprinkle of new school fans, as MC Lyte showcased the past, present, and future leaders that will continue to hold the torch for female lyricists.
Legendary turntable master, DJ Jermaine, kicked off the 11:00 p.m. start time with classics that had the crowd going wild with myself included. A mixture of songs included LL Cool J, Luther Vandross, Drake, and both of them “Babies” (Lil & Da) to please the audience. DJ K-Rock followed suit with a hype introduction as the audience grooved to EU’s “Da Butt” theatrics.
After we all got a little loose and felt the vibrations of good energy in the building, MC Lyte jumped on stage with her beautifully bedazzled microphone to remind us that “Cha Cha Cha” will forever reign as the 1989 #1 Hot Rap Single. Hearing this song felt nostalgic and makes me appreciate the beauty of being a woman and growing up during this significant hip-hop era.
MC Lyte exclaimed, “Being a woman in hip-hop is not easy.” The truthfulness of these words impact us all, and teaches us that having a strong bond of sisterhood is vital and needed now more than ever. As a pioneer and advocate for women utilizing their gifts, MC Lyte brought out a few of her special guests including Teresa the Songbird (poetry), Rhapsody, Mumu Fresh, Yo-Yo, and Trina.
My favorite moments throughout the night were Grammy-nominated singer, songwriter, activist, and hip-hop artist Maimouna Youssef (Mumu Fresh) tearing down the stage with her blazing single, “Let’s Eat.” Mumu’s stage presence and lyricism had everyone in awe of her talent.
Another magical moment brought to my remembrance how much fun and free-spirited energy YoYo provides. YoYo graced the stage with a neon and black ensemble, as Brandy’s song remix “I Wanna Be Down” played excitedly in the background. Mc Lyte, YoYo, and Queen Latifah all recited verses on this 1994 classic and it was great to see the ladies enjoying the music with the crowd.
Trina, (The Baddest B*tch) flourished with her 305 flavor and had us pulling over and living ratchet for a few minutes. Trina rocked a fabulous sparkling pants garment that had me envisioning this piece in my Glitter&Gumbo closet. We had an absolute blast during her set too.
Overall, the Essence After Dark: Women In Hip-Hop felt like an intimate concert inside the heart and mind of Mc Lyte. We were privileged guests listening to her conversations and dancing as a unified group to prove that women indeed run the world and hip-hop is our playground.
