Lil' Kim

Kimberly Denise Jones (born July 11, 1974), better known by her stage name Lil' Kim, is an American rapper, singer, songwriter, and model. Referred to as the "Queen of Rap", Lil' Kim is known for her sexually charged lyrics and presence, which influenced women in contemporary hip-hop. She is the second best-selling female rapper of all time with 45 million records sold, and is also a fashion icon for her risk-taking and luxurious approach to fashion.

Lil' Kim was born and raised in New York City and lived much of her adolescent life on the streets after being expelled from home. In her teens, she would freestyle rap, influenced by fellow female hip-hop artists like MC Lyte and the Lady of Rage.

In 1994, she was discovered by fellow rapper the Notorious B.I.G., who invited her to join his group Junior M.A.F.I.A.; their debut album, Conspiracy, generated two top 20 singles in the United States and was certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).