MC Lyte is one of the greatest rappers of all time and a trailblazer in the genre.
Speaking with Vibe, Lyte explained that she was “kind of shocked” at her induction.
“There’s so much more to do, but it’s a great milestone, especially to be recognized by a group of your peers or those who exist in other genres. Starting from 16 years old, rapping lyrics in a basement to now taking on one of the most esteemed acknowledgements, to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame — it feels surreal,” Lyte said.
”It’s humbling and serves as a reminder to keep moving in the direction of positivity and know that I am just the conduit. God is working through me to bring the very best of whatever it is he gives me as a creative vision. I just feel like I keep getting better,” she continued.
Lyte said she never thought about being inducted until she had a conversation with Chuck D.
“I recognize going to the [Cleveland] airport and [seeing] all of the displays, like [inductees] Beastie Boys and Public Enemy. But I never equated myself with the moment. And then I received a call about two years ago from Chuck D. He was like, “Have you ever thought about wanting to be inducted?” And it was the first time it became something to think about,” she said. “But it almost felt so out there that I never even really considered what it would mean to be inducted. Hip-hop has come so far.”
THE RECOGNITION OF HIP-HOP
Lyte also spoke about how honored she is to be inducted with Queen Latifah. Also, Salt-N-Pepa, who were inducted last year. She also praised the new leadership of the organization, which has been recognizing hip-hop artists.
“I think Latifah and I being recognized, and Salt-N-Pepa being recognized, is just a testament to the somewhat newer regime coming into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame body of voters. Many organizations that are based in overall culture are supposed to reflect the actual time we’re in,” she said. ‘And could use the benefit of restructuring. It’s just something that adds the flavor of what’s happening of the day.”