Latto, a trailblazer in the music industry, shares her candid experiences as a woman in the realm of hip-hop. In a recent interview with XXL, the artist behind the hit album “777” delves into the intricacies of being a female rapper entertainer. She outlines the distinct elements that form the backbone of her artistic expression, which include bold lyrics and striking attire.
In the face of criticism and misunderstanding, Latto stands her ground, affirming that these elements are integral to her craft and the broader landscape of female rap. This article explores the challenges she faces, her responses to them, and the importance of her voice in the industry.
The Spotlight on Female Rapper Entertainers
According to Latto, the concept of a female rapper entertainer could encompass sexual lyrics, risqué clothes, and other elements that might be considered controversial. However, she affirms her comfort with these elements, asserting that they constitute the entertainment aspect of female rap.
“That, to me, is the entertainment of female rap. And I think sometimes people—my peers, our peers in the industry, our male peers—take that as an invitation. Like, ‘Oh, yeah, she like that. I’m open to talking to you outside of music or like, whatever.’ I think they don’t really know how to keep it business.”
CONFRONTING MISUNDERSTANDINGS IN THE INDUSTRY
Latto expresses that her male colleagues often misinterpret her artistic expressions as personal invitations, failing to keep the line between business and personal interactions clear. This common misunderstanding has led to several discomforting situations for the artist.
The Challenges of Being a Woman in Hip-Hop
Latto admits that navigating the male-dominated hip-hop industry is far from smooth sailing. Female artists like her are subjected to heightened scrutiny from blogs, fans, and commentators, and they often have to work twice as hard to achieve the same recognition as their male counterparts.
Latto’s Call to Action
Latto encourages more female artists to speak up about the challenges they face. Despite the pressure to keep silent, she believes it’s crucial to highlight the issues to bring about necessary changes in the industry.
Conclusion
Latto’s honesty about her experiences as a woman in hip-hop provides a much-needed perspective on the realities of the music industry. Her ability to confront these challenges and continue creating art is a testament to her strength and resilience. Her voice is not just a medium for entertainment, but also a beacon of inspiration for other female artists navigating the rough seas of the hip-hop industry.
