In an exclusive interview with Insider, Latto sheds light on the prevailing dominance of women in the rap game, attributing it to their unapologetic energy. The artist’s insights follow her groundbreaking achievement on Monday, securing her first No. 1 hit on the esteemed Billboard Hot 100 with “Seven,” a collaboration alongside BTS singer Jungkook on his debut solo single. Remarkably, the song has already garnered over 100 million streams on Spotify since its release on July 14.
Latto passionately emphasizes the flourishing presence of female artists in the current rap landscape, describing it as raw, uncut, and authentic, reflecting a bold “take-me-for-who-I-am” attitude. During the interview, she also mentions her recent partnership with Wingstop for the introduction of the Latto Meal, a new limited edition offering comprising 21 wings, fries, and two dips.
Significantly, artists Ice Spice, Coi Leray, Nicki Minaj, and Latto herself have all achieved top 10 hits on the Hot 100 since the beginning of the year. The trend of female empowerment in rap music was also evident in 2022, as Coi Leray, Minaj, and Latto, along with other notable figures such as Doja Cat, Lizzo, GloRilla, and Cardi B, all enjoyed top 10 hits.
Latto attributes the respect and admiration garnered by the current crop of female rappers to their genuine authenticity. She specifically highlights the robust presence of Southern female rap artists, who are boldly taking the industry by storm and embracing their true selves.
When questioned about the newfound ability of female rappers to be unapologetic, the 24-year-old star, who recently clinched the award for best female hip-hop artist at the 2023 BET Awards, credits influential figures like Lil’ Kim and Missy Elliott for paving the way.
Latto’s rise to prominence dates back to 2016 when she won the inaugural season of “The Rap Game,” Jermaine Dupri’s now-defunct talent show. Despite declining a record deal with Dupri’s So So Def label, the rapper signed with RCA Records in 2020 and has since released two studio albums. Her latest album, “777,” notably peaked at No. 15 on the esteemed Billboard 200 chart and featured the smash hit “Big Energy.”
The rapper’s latest collaboration with Jungkook stands as a defining moment in her career, marking her most significant hit to date. In doing so, she joins an exclusive group of female rappers, including illustrious names such as Megan Thee Stallion, Cardi B, and Missy Elliott, all of whom have achieved No. 1 hits on the Hot 100.
In an exclusive revelation to Insider, Latto discloses that she was personally chosen by K-pop sensation Jungkook for the collaboration. Eager to contribute to an already remarkable hit, she describes the exciting process of adding her touch to the project. Speaking of Jungkook, the 25-year-old artist shares her admiration for his genuine and humble nature, expressing her enjoyment of the entire experience, while also acknowledging the unwavering support of his passionate fan base, known as the army.
