THOUGHT PIECE: Nicki Minaj vs Lil' Kim

I thought I’d let the hype die down before I gave my two cents on the 'Lil Kim v Nicki Minaj' debate.

Let's go in...

First off let me say without Lil Kim there would be no Nicki. Much like without Queen Latifah and MC Lyte there would be no Lil Kim.

From what I’ve seen and heard most of the venom has been coming from Lil Kim who I personally feel isn't relevant in 2010.

In the early 90's-2000 there was an abundance of female MC's (Queen Latifah, MC Lyte, Brat, Missy, Foxy, Eve, Trina, Remy Ma and Khia to name a few) who all experienced some level of success alongside their male counterparts.

As much as I can enjoy music from female rappers, I have only been able to purchase a handful of albums. These were from Kim and Foxy because they brought something different to the table with their explicit lyrics, and Da Brat and Missy Elliot who brought more of a funk and fun element. These ladies were also backed by influential male rappers (B.I.G., Jay-Z, and Nas).

I can't deny there are a few similarities in how Kim used to style herself, but with Nicki there is a twist which I feel gives her a more mainstream appeal whilst still being able to maintain her 'hood' rep. Being part of the Young Money click and having Dwayne Carter as your boss and mentor also doesn't hurt.

To me it seems Kim wants Nicki to actually come out and acknowledge her contribution to female hip hop and she doesn't need to do that! As far as I know, Nicki has never denied or disrespected the contribution and hard work her peers put in before her. From seeing Nicki on bootleg ‘hood’ DVDs back in the day to being the first female MC in eight years to have a number one on the Billboard charts I have to respect her hustle, determination and hard work.

In terms of performance, Lil Kim was very rambunctious whereas Nicki is more quirky and animated with her accents and facial expressions. Both artists demand people’s attention when they are on stage and if you are paying to see someone that is what is expected.

So In conclusion I think we all do respect Lil Kim's contribution to hip hop, and she probably still has a fan base although, I very much doubt it is still as vast as it once was. Right now is definitely Nicki's time and I can’t see any other female coming for her spot right now. If she continues to stay on her grind she thoroughly deserves the continued success.

What are your thoughts?