The 10 English female rappers who dominate the UK rap scene

1. Little Simz

Little Simz is an artist who combines lyrical depth with visual storytelling. Her albums, such as Grey Area and Sometimes I Might Be Introvert, demonstrate a social conscience and introspection rare in rap. Working with Inflo of the Sault collective, she creates cinematic tracks that explore complex themes: racism, feminism, and the challenges of being a black artist in the music industry. Her latest album, No Thank You, sees her boldly navigate an often difficult music world, offering a critical analysis of the industry and an introspection on her journey. She is often compared to rap legends for her subtle and intelligent songwriting.

2. Lady Leshurr: Queen of Freestyle

Lady Leshurr is famous for her series of freestyles Queen's Speech, where she shines with her dexterity, humor and innate sense of rhythm. She has a unique way of rapping, transforming beats into real verbal choreographies, and her humor is also a central point of her style. Her international popularity has earned her a place on the world stage, even collaborating with Nicki Minaj. Her ability to juggle between light themes and incisive lyrics makes her an iconic voice, capable of captivating both the general public and informed hip-hop fans.

3. Ms Banks

Ms Banks is a versatile artist who has performed in a variety of genres, from grime to drill to afrobeat, influenced by her Nigerian roots. She started out with underground mixtapes that helped her build a strong fanbase. Since then, she has collaborated with Cardi B and received praise from Nicki Minaj, helping to expand her popularity. In her songs, she addresses themes such as strength, pride and resilience, often using her music as a means of expression for female empowerment.

4. Ivorian Doll

Ivorian Doll is a rising star of British drill, with a deep voice and magnetic presence. Her track “Rumors” catapulted her to the forefront, with bold lyrics that see her take on critics with remarkable confidence. Inspired by the likes of Pop Smoke, she brings a dose of raw strength and energy that recalls the greatest figures of the genre. Her style, which mixes humor and power, has made her a must-see in female drill.

5. ENNY

ENNY is known for her hit single “Peng Black Girls,” a Black woman pride anthem that celebrates the diversity of Black beauty and experiences. Collaborating with Jorja Smith, she reached a wide audience and brought messages of inclusivity and empowerment to the forefront. On her EP We Go Again, she addresses themes of personal growth, self-love, and healing with a delicate and heartfelt pen, transforming her experiences into inspiring lessons for her listeners.

6. Stefflon Don

Stefflon Don is probably one of the most famous British rappers outside the UK. Thanks to her Jamaican heritage and her international collaborations with artists such as French Montana and Sean Paul, she has managed to impose her unique style. Her music, which mixes grime and dancehall, is both powerful and danceable, with an energy that electrifies each track. She is a true ambassador of the British hip-hop scene internationally, and her charisma ensures her a place among the great figures of the genre.

7. Crystal

Cristale is a new star in drill, with a technical style and deep lyrics. Her song “Roadents”, used in the series Top Boy, showed her talent for combining drill beats with narrative intensity. She stands out for her ability to inject personal stories and social observations into her lyrics, giving each track an extra dimension. Her project What It's Like To Be Young captures the tension and challenges of youth in an ever-changing society, positioning her as an essential voice of her generation.

8. Shaybo

Born in Nigeria and raised in London, Shaybo combines influences from African music with British rap culture. Her nickname, “Queen of the South,” reflects the confidence and boldness she infuses into her tracks. On her self-titled album, she tackles themes of love, loyalty, and identity with a style that defies genres. Her natural charisma and fluid flow make her an artist who transcends borders and genres, able to captivate an international audience while staying true to her roots.

9. Ms Dynamite

Ms Dynamite is a historic figure in British hip-hop, having made her mark with tracks like “Dy-Na-Mi-Tee” and her Mercury Prize-winning album A Little Deeper. She was one of the first British female rappers to break into a male-dominated industry, inspiring a generation of women in hip-hop. Her music, which blends reggae, hip-hop and soul, addresses themes of social justice and identity with a rare sincerity.

10. Nadia Rose

Nadia Rose is an artist who shines with her charisma and attitude. With bold tracks and lyrics full of personality, she knows how to capture the audience's attention from the first listen. Her album Highly Flammable is a demonstration of her talent, with tracks that oscillate between humor, provocation and raw energy. She is an essential figure in British hip-hop, capable of making people smile and think at the same time, while asserting her place in a genre that is evolving.