When Missy Elliott first stepped out on the music scene in the mid-nineties, it was as a member of the hip-hop/R&B collective that became known throughout the industry as Da Basement Crew. The group was founded by DeVante Swing of Jodeci and included the likes of Ginuwine, Magoo, Playa, Stevie J, and Missy's childhood friend, Timbaland. Together, Missy Elliott and Timbaland were the creative minds behind Ginuwine's memorable early records and the resurgence of Aaliyah. However, Missy quickly made a name for herself in hip-hop before she dropped a solo project, with a litany of cameo appearances in music videos and notable features in songs like "The Things You Do" by Gina Thompson, "Steelo" by 702, and "You Don't Have to Worry (Remix)" by New Edition. Missy Elliott's debut LP, "Supa Dupa Fly," was produced by her good friend, Timbaland, and is highly regarded as one of the greatest albums of all time to this very day. The platinum-selling album would kickstart an illustrious solo career that would be highlighted by six full-length albums, four Grammy awards, six BET Awards, a star on Hollywood's walk of fame, and an MTV Video Vanguard award.
In 2019, the Virginia native became the first female rapper ever to be inducted into the Songwriter's Hall of Fame. Now, she has a chance to further her legacy. The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame recently revealed a list of nominees that includes big names such as Sheryl Crow, Cyndi Lauper, Kate Bush, and George Michael. The announcement makes Missy Elliott the first female rapper to have earned the distinction of Rock & Roll Hall of Fame nominee. The determination of which recording artists will be inducted won't be made public until later in the year.
Source: Complex
