Today in Hip-hop: MC Lyte Turns 46

This day in Hip-hop marks the birth of amongHip-hop's pioneering female rappers, none other than Lana Michelle Moorer—more prominently known as MC Lyte.

Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Lyte began rapping as early as age twelve, and at age fourteen, Lyte began recording her first single.

Gaining recognition in the Hip-hop scene, fans and critics alike easily recognized a stand-out star in the young rapper, who already “began publicly outshining other MCs.” MC Lyte debuted in 1988 with her album, Lyte As A Rock, which featured critically-acclaimed singles, such as “Paper Thin” and “10% Dis”.

After two albums both showcasing Lyte's unfiltered lyrical content, fans saw a transition to a lighter tone with her third album, Act Like You Know, noted for its “new jack swing sound”.

In 1993, Lyte struck RIAA Gold with the album, Ain't No Other, which featured her breakout hit-singe “Ruffneck”. The song was nominated for the Grammy Awards under Best Rap Single, signifying Lyte's notoriety as the first female rapper to receive such nomination.

2006 signified Lyte's inclusion on VH1's Hip Hop Honors, alongside Da Brat, Remy Ma, as well as Lil' Kim, and in 2013 Lyte received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Hip Hop Inaugural Ball. She is also the first female hip-hop artist to be awarded BET's “I Am Hip Hop” title.

Along with venturing into acting, business, and public speaking, MC Lyte has maintained recognition as a prominent Hip-hop artist, rooted upon an impressive resume of critically-acclaimed albums and singles. Her latest album, Legend, was released last year, which featured impressive singles “Check” as well as “Ball” which also featured Lil Mama and AV.

By Jods Arboleda for RAPStation.com