Costume designer June Ambrose, rapper MC Lyte, and choreographer Fatima Robinson helped pioneer hip-hop. Here, they reflect on their groundbreaking careers—and what comes next.
From left: Jared C. Tilton/ Getty Images; D’Andre Michael; Max Farago for Harper’s Bazaar
In 1988, at the age of 17, Lana Michele Moorer, better known as MC Lyte, became the first solo female rapper to release a full-length album, with her critically acclaimedFrom there, she continued to make history, becoming the first rap artist to perform at Carnegie Hall, in 1990, and the first solo female rapper to score a certified gold single, for 1993’s “Ruffneck.
Ambrose’s most iconic work includes the concept for the inflatable suit worn by Missy Elliott in her 1997 video for “The Rain ,” though the designer, now a creative director for Puma, outfitted everyone from Diddy to Mary J. Blige and Jay-Z. Lyte, Ambrose, and Robinson recently connected to discuss hip-hop’s evolution over the past 50 years and how it continues to inform—and define—popular culture today.Lyte, you spearheaded a big performance at the Kennedy Center in June to celebrate the 50th anniversary of hip-hop. Why was it important to you to highlight female rappers?I’m all about helping to shine a light on all of those who don’t always get the eyes and the attention that they deserve.
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