Nicki Minaj would not exist without Ms. Melodie and others female rap pioneers who paved the way during the 1980s. Ms. Melodie was a member of Boogie Down Production and was also once married to KRS-One.

Ms. Melodie rapped on the hit “Self Destruction”; released her debut, Diva, on Jive in 1989; and was also featured on Queen Latifah’s “Ladies First.”

Ms. Melodie died on July 17, but her mark on hip-hop will always be remembered.

Click continue to see the other female rap artists who shined during Ms. Melodie’s era.