When it comes to hip-hop in the Illadelph region, names such as The Roots,
Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince, Freeway, and Beanie Sigel
come to mind. But, what about the ladies of the culture?
From pioneers Lady B and Yvette Money to lyricists Bahamadia, and mainstream-queen
Eve, females have been putting a huge dent in the Philadelphia hip-hop history
books. However, there is a new rise of women that are making sure we don’t
go unnoticed. Journey with me as I introduce you to three women who are showing
you why ladies are first.
Stepping into some underground shows in Philadelphia can be equated to walking
into a locker room after a football game. Underneath and behind most of those
bangin’ shows is promoter, Stef Tataz. Stef has been responsible for bringing
hip-hop superstars, Premier and Pete Rock to Philadelphia, among many others.
In addition to being a promoter, she keeps busy DJing, and holding down Cue
Records. Stef has led a revolution and path for other female promoters without
giving into any negative vibe she receives from others for being a female.
No matter how frustrated she gets, the pay off is well worth it. Her actions
are based on the love she has for the culture, not to make a statement. Refusing
to accept her gender as an obstacle, Stef has done more than many male promoters
for the underground scene. Yet, she is still demanding and fighting for respect.
Defining womanhood 360 degrees is Irize Refined Earth. While going to school,
she juggled motherhood and work. All Irize’s hard work paid off. Irize is
the general manager of A Touch of Jazz studios in the Northern Liberties section
of Philadelphia. Not only is A Touch of Jazz home to legend Jazzy Jeff, it
has served as the foundation and recording studio for Jill Scott and Floetry’s
breakout albums. Not only does she keep A Touch of Jazz running smoothly,
Irize is a member of an organization called Women for General Civilization
and Social Change. Through this powerful movement, they wish to uplift their
surroundings and other women by having workshops and seminars dedicated to
growth. As the result of her hard work and tireless ambition, Irize has proven
that no obstacle is insurmountable.
Holding down the dance world in Philadelphia is Michele Byrd-McPhee. She
is the co-founder of the all-female performing arts company, Montazh. Montazh
combines the dances of modern, African, jazz, and breakin’, all with a Hip
Hop base to create a universal experience. Michele along with Crystal Frazier
created Montazh to break the barriers of dance socially, physically, and culturally.
They express their passion of dance through femininity. The uphill climb they’ve
faced has brought the 12 ladies closer together, and made many in the community
aware of their power through unity. Montazh represents exploration and exposure
of self. Through their performances with Rennie Harris and The Rittenhouse
Festival, their fan base has grown to include people of both genders. Michele
makes it a point to let people know they aren’t anti-male, just pro-female.
There is a big difference. They are the dancers to the soundtrack of life.
These are only three women out of many that are proving that hip-hop is
live and thriving in the female community of Philadelphia. They represent
change, equality, and beauty. If you haven’t heard of them, it’s just a matter
of time. Change is indeed coming.
