Thus far, our Way Back Wednesday signature song subseries has focused entirely on singers and Britney Spears but this week, we’re taking a detour into the field of Hip-Hop by focusing on the catalogue of Lil Kim. Known as the Queen Bee, she dominated the her competition for almost a decade but what hit gave her that special edge?
Kim’s music evolved almost as quickly as her looks as she cemented her position as both a Hip-Hop giant and an icon of popular culture. She scored numerous successes throughout her career and opened doors for several artists who followed in her footsteps, thanks to a flurry of crossover hits that boasted messages of bold sexuality.
Now, let’s reflect on Kim’s catalogue and choose her signature song from those listed below:
“Crush on You (Ft. The Notorious B.I.G. & Lil Cease)”
“How Many Licks? (Ft. Sisqo)”
“The Jump Off (Ft. Mr. Cheeks)”
“Lighters Up”
“Magic Stick (Ft. 50 Cent)”
“No Matter What They Say”
“Not Tonight (Ft. Da Brat, Left Eye, Missy Elliott & Angie Martinez)”
“Queen Bitch”
“Whoa”
Kim had an influence on Hip-Hop and fashion as one of the few rappers with a lasting impression on the MTV generation. Yet, naming just one signature song from her catalogue is quite a difficult task, especially since some of the tunes for which her fans remember her weren’t even singles. Seriously, if you’re a Rap fan born before the year 1990 then the lyrics “Queen Bitch” should instinctively come to mind.
Still, the frontrunners among Kim’s singles are definitely “Crush on You” and “Lighters Up”, with the latter tune being a true anthem in the clubs. Personally, if I was forced by the ghost of Biggie Smalls to choose just one then Kim’s signature song would be “Lighters Up”.
What is Kim’ signature song? What other songs should have been mentioned? Vote in the Way Back Wednesday poll and share your opinion!