Missy Elliott’s break from music! Grammy-winning, Billboard-charting, multi-Platinum selling artist Missy “Misdemeanor” Elliott’s accomplishments can write a book. She carved out a singular path in hip hop as a rapper, record producer, and trendsetter.
The Virginia Beach native was a trailblazer for women in such a male-dominated genre. Her inimitable rap style complemented trendsetting video aesthetics. They showcased her own unique, idiosyncratic sense of fashion and a distinct identity. What Really Happened?
Missy Elliott’s Break from Music: What Really Happened?
Her breakthrough album Supa Dupa Fly set the stage for her era-defining sound. The project featured a fusion of Afrofuturistic, electropop, and hip hop. The catchy beats and funk bass lines mixed with Elliott’s spitfire delivery. Her music videos further embodied her off-kilter and playful sense of style. They juxtapose her sexy and feminine body with robotic and acrobatic visual effects.
Missy’s afro-futuristic visuals were groundbreaking and ahead of their time. They and challenged the stereotypical images of women in hip hop. She was the Queen Bee in her video for “Work It” surrounded by worker bees. Missy then appeared as a princess with her backup dancers in the video for her single, “One-Minute Man.” Her video for the song “Lose Control” features a retractable head and an inflatable patent leather suit. Her empowering imagery and unapologetic sexual desires paved inspired the newer female rappers.
Throughout her career, Missy collaborated with a diverse roster of popular artists. She worked with superstars like Aaliyah, Ciara, and Christina Aguilera. Her most recent return to the public eye was at Super Bowl XLIX. She performed three of her smash hits, including her iconic “Work It” and “Lose Control.”
Many fans speculated that Elliot’s hiatus from the spotlight was due to a health crisis. She since confirmed that she never actually stopped making music. Missy took a step back from releasing her own material to focus on writing and producing for others. She also took the time to pursue other creative outlets such as acting.
