Over the past few years, the rap game has seen a new wave of talented female artists, breaking gender stereotypes and capturing the hearts of fans across the globe. Amongst these rising stars is a name that’s been making waves in the Atlanta hip-hop scene – Latto.
Born as Alyssa Michelle Stephens, Latto gained prominence after winning the first season of the rap competition, The Rap Game, in 2016, hosted by the renowned hip-hop artist, Jermaine Dupri. Being the only female contestant, Latto’s lyrical abilities, self-assured demeanor, and ambition captivated both the judges and the viewers.
From then on, Latto steadily carved her path in the rap industry, releasing a series of hit singles such as “Jump,” “No More Thot,” “Muwop,” and “Big Energy,” amongst others. Her music showcases her versatility as an artist, blending her smooth flow and hard-hitting bars to produce catchy bangers that have become instant anthems for her fans.
Latto’s music reflects her life experiences, emotions, and journey to success. Being from Atlanta, she drew inspiration from the city’s vibrant hip-hop culture and incorporated the essence of the trap sound and southern rap into her music. Her lyrics often center around themes such as female empowerment, hustle, overcoming adversity, and defying stereotypes.
Moreover, Latto’s songs are also notable for their strong and confident delivery, reflecting her unapologetic attitude and determination to succeed in a male-dominated industry. In a recent interview, she stated,” I’m very confident in myself, and I feel like the music that I put out speaks for itself. And people can see that I’ve been working so hard, and I’m not playing any games.”
Latto’s music has also gained recognition from other notable hip-hop artists, such as Gucci Mane, Cardi B, and City Girls, amongst others. In 2020, Latto signed a record deal with RCA Records and subsequently released her debut album, Queen of da Souf, which peaked at number 44 on the US Billboard 200. The album features collaborations with fellow rappers such as Gucci Mane, Saweetie, and 21 Savage and cements Latto’s place as the rising queen of the Atlanta rap scene.
However, Latto’s journey has not been without its challenges. She has faced backlash and criticism from some quarters for her use of the n-word in her music, which has sparked a debate about the cultural appropriation of hip-hop and the boundaries of free speech in music. Latto has responded to the criticism, stating that she is aware of her position and responsibilities as an artist and that she will continue to express herself authentically while being respectful of the culture.
In conclusion, Latto’s meteoric rise to fame is a testament to her raw talent, hard work, and determination to succeed. Her music speaks for a generation of young women who refuse to be silenced and constrained by societal norms and expectations. Latto’s bold and confident delivery sets her apart in the rap game, and her music has become a source of inspiration for many aspiring artists. As her star continues to rise, we can expect to see more impactful music from this rising queen of hip-hop.