Births on March 18

Queen Latifah, American rapper, producer, and actress

From the vibrant streets of Newark, New Jersey, emerged a multifaceted talent who would redefine the entertainment landscape: Dana Elaine Owens, globally celebrated as Queen Latifah. Born on March 18, 1970, she swiftly ascended to prominence as an influential rapper, a captivating actress, and a soulful singer, blazing trails and smashing barriers across music, film, and television.

The Unstoppable Rise of a Hip-Hop Icon

Queen Latifah's musical journey began to truly take shape when she signed with the then-burgeoning Tommy Boy Records in 1989. This iconic label, known for its pivotal role in hip-hop culture, provided the perfect launchpad for her debut album, All Hail the Queen, released on November 28, 1989. The album was an immediate sensation, anchored by the powerful anthem "Ladies First," which featured Monie Love and became a rallying cry for female empowerment in hip-hop, cementing Latifah's status as a pioneering voice. Her second and final album with Tommy Boy Records, Nature of a Sista', followed in 1991, further showcasing her lyrical prowess and unique style.

However, it was her third album, Black Reign, released in 1993, that etched her name into the annals of music history. This groundbreaking record became the very first album by a solo female rapper to receive an RIAA certification, signifying its significant commercial success. More importantly, Black Reign spawned the seminal single "U.N.I.T.Y." – a track that transcended mere entertainment to become a cultural touchstone. "U.N.I.T.Y." boldly addressed pervasive issues like violence against women and the objectification of Black female sexuality, sparking crucial conversations and resonating deeply with audiences. The song's profound impact earned Latifah a coveted Grammy Award and propelled it to No. 23 on the highly competitive Billboard Hot 100 chart, underscoring its widespread appeal and critical acclaim.

From Khadijah James to Hollywood's Leading Lady

While dominating the music charts, Queen Latifah seamlessly transitioned into acting, proving her versatility was boundless. From 1993 to 1998, she charmed audiences as Khadijah James, the no-nonsense magazine editor, on the hugely popular Fox sitcom Living Single. This show wasn't just a hit; it was a cultural phenomenon, offering a relatable and aspirational portrayal of four professional Black women navigating life in Brooklyn, helping to define an era of Black television. Her success on the small screen quickly led to prominent film roles. In 1996, she took on a powerful lead role in the critically acclaimed crime drama Set It Off, demonstrating her dramatic range alongside other formidable actresses.

Her fourth album, Order in the Court, arrived on June 16, 1998, under the legendary Motown Records label, further solidifying her musical presence. But it was her captivating performance as Matron "Mama" Morton in the sensational musical film Chicago in 2002 that garnered widespread critical acclaim, earning her a prestigious nomination for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. This role showcased her incredible singing talent and charismatic stage presence, proving her mettle as a serious dramatic actress capable of holding her own in Hollywood's elite.

A Versatile Entertainer Across All Mediums

Continuing her musical journey, Queen Latifah released her fifth studio album, The Dana Owens Album, in 2004, embracing a more jazz and soul-influenced sound. She followed this with two more well-received studio albums, Trav'lin' Light in 2007 and Persona in 2009, each showcasing her evolving artistry. Beyond music and feature films, Latifah also made her mark in the daytime television landscape, creating and hosting The Queen Latifah Show, which enjoyed two successful syndicated runs from 1999 to 2001 and again from 2013 to 2015, connecting with audiences on a personal level.

Her filmography expanded rapidly, showcasing her incredible range in diverse genres. She brought her comedic timing to hits like Bringing Down the House (2003), Taxi (2004), Barbershop 2: Back in Business (2005), Beauty Shop (2005), and Girls Trip (2017). She also delivered heartwarming performances in films such as Last Holiday (2006) and Hairspray (2007), and lent her distinctive voice to the beloved Ice Age film series, further endearing her to a global audience. Whether it was leading a comedy, starring in a musical, or lending her voice, Latifah consistently proved to be a box office draw.

Dramatic Depths and an Undeniable Influence

In 2015, Queen Latifah delivered a truly monumental performance as blues legend Bessie Smith in the HBO film Bessie, which she also co-produced. Her raw, powerful portrayal earned her widespread critical adoration and a well-deserved Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Television Movie, cementing her status as a powerhouse dramatic actress. From 2016 to 2019, she commanded the screen as Carlotta Brown in the compelling musical drama series Star, and in 2020, she brilliantly portrayed Hattie McDaniel in the Netflix miniseries Hollywood, showcasing her ability to bring complex historical figures to life.

Throughout her career, Queen Latifah has consistently been hailed as the "Queen of Rap" by numerous media outlets, and often lauded as "rap's first feminist" for her groundbreaking lyrical themes and fearless advocacy. Her indelible impact was officially recognized in 2006 when she became the first hip-hop artist to receive a star on the prestigious Hollywood Walk of Fame. Her extraordinary contributions across music, film, and television have been celebrated with an impressive array of accolades, including a Grammy Award, a Primetime Emmy Award, a Golden Globe Award, three Screen Actors Guild Awards, and two NAACP Image Awards, alongside her Academy Award nomination. Queen Latifah truly embodies the spirit of a pioneer, an artist who has not only achieved immense personal success but has also profoundly influenced culture, inspiring generations with her talent, grace, and unwavering commitment to authenticity.

Frequently Asked Questions About Queen Latifah

Who is Queen Latifah?

Queen Latifah, born Dana Elaine Owens, is an iconic American rapper, actress, and singer from Newark, New Jersey, renowned for her trailblazing career in hip-hop, film, and television.

When did Queen Latifah's music career debut?

Her music career officially debuted with the release of her album All Hail the Queen on November 28, 1989, featuring the hit single "Ladies First," following her signing with Tommy Boy Records.

What are some of Queen Latifah's most famous songs?

Among her most famous musical hits are the empowering "Ladies First" and the Grammy-winning, socially conscious anthem "U.N.I.T.Y." from her album Black Reign.

What notable TV shows and movies has Queen Latifah starred in?

She is well-known for her roles as Khadijah James in the sitcom Living Single, Matron "Mama" Morton in the acclaimed film Chicago, and her Emmy-winning portrayal of Bessie Smith in the HBO film Bessie. Her extensive filmography also includes hits like Bringing Down the House, Hairspray, and the Ice Age series.

What awards has Queen Latifah won?

Queen Latifah has received numerous prestigious awards, including a Grammy Award, a Primetime Emmy Award, a Golden Globe Award, three Screen Actors Guild Awards, and two NAACP Image Awards. She also earned an Academy Award nomination for her role in Chicago and has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.