Who's Next? 5 Female Rappers Destined for Greatness

The first lady of the Taylor Gang is more than just a pretty face. In fact, most are caught off guard once they hear the gritty lines Lola Monroe delivers on every track she jumps on.The self-proclaimed “Underground Queen” and artist formerly known as Angel Lola Luv transitioned from being a model to a rapper. She’s seasoned with years of experience and a handful of mixtapes since 2009, collaborating with the likes of Jadakiss, Trina, Gangsta Boo and Soulja Boy. Even if the 25-year-old was beat out by Nicki Minaj in 2011 for BET’s Best Female Hip-Hop Artist, her alliance with Wiz Khalifa may mean big things for 2012.

Even if you’ve never heard her work, you will never forget her septum piercing. The bella bull charged on to the music scene at 13, eventually releasing her 2010 mixtape The Miseducation of Audra which was enough to elevate a Twitter conversation with Rick Ross into a flight to Miami. She brought class to the game with her tape, showcasing a maze of verses that navigate listeners through the different dimensions of Audra. She pays homage to Lauryn Hill on “Double Standards," which contains a sample from “That Thing” to speak on feminism. “Ain’t It Funny” is a nostalgic look at her struggle through her career, juggling three jobs to become an artist. Audra’s lyrical messages resonate with a wide audience.

The Bo$$tress makes sure you know she’s in the building. She bursts onto a track and packs rap punches throughout her mixtapes. See Nina live and her stage presence commands attention. Her 2010 tape Nina B: The Remember Me – Pay Attention Edition brings the Brooklyn flavor and draws inspiration from Jay-Z (“Hottest Chick in the Game”) and shows the femcee’s ability to draw more verse-atile portraits (“Picture This” featuring Skyzoo and “Dream Killers”). Her most recent single “X-Men” off the 2011 The Bo$$tress 2: The Bitch Is Back tape brings Kay Slay and Donny Goines along for the visual and shows a comic book version of Nina B as in a battle of the exes and next’s. She also has an upcoming collabo with Action Bronson in the works for the new year.