The Mercedes Ladies. The name had a ring to it!
As they watched Kool DJ Red Alert and Grandmaster Flash run the block, these teenage girls dreamed of becoming respected rap artists. But there was a MAJOR problem they’d have to overcome.
They were girls, and rap was dominated by men. Women were NOT taken seriously in the rap game.
The Mercedes Ladies had a plan, but would it work when they were discounted from jump?
Every weekend, the best MCs took the stage at block parties. Once they got the chance, The Mercedes Ladies eagerly took the stage – and held their own! Rumors of a dope group of women MCs spread.
Soon they were rocking crowds all over! Had they finally made it?
Not so fast. Unlike some of the men in the game, they weren’t getting paid!
So they decided to host their own shows to benefit their community. They wrote rhymes to inspire young women to avoid drugs. But that wasn’t all.
Their shows inspired other girls to show their talents. Their rhymes reflected their difficult lives and gave others hope.
They never got their chance to shine, but we can give them props – and remember that like the Mercedes Ladies, we must always use our voices and talents to care for our community!