People were so worked up over Missy Elliott being called a “NEW” artist after her guest performance at the NFL Super Bowl XLIX. Hard truth, our youth aren’t familiar with Missy Elliott or her music. Missy is from a different generation and one that we HAVEN’T celebrated in a while. Missy is a legend and NOT new to the music game. She has been out of the game for a minute, however, that was her entry back into the music game and an opportunity to reintroduce her brand and music to a new generation.
The new generation would not know who Da La Soul is so why condemn our youth for their lack of knowledge in music artists from years ago. It’s our seniors in the game that are responsible for honoring, showing tribute, and celebrating those who paved the way. Unfortunately, that’s happening less and less. It’s more about sampling music and not giving credit where the credit is due.
The word on the street is that Missy Elliott is back. Ever since her appearance at the Super Bowl with Katy Perry she has been back on our radar. And with that appearance a new generation of music lovers were introduced to this icon.
The buzz from the younger generation who were unaware of who she is, thought it was her first time to the rodeo. Missy Elliott, however, is far from new but rather someone who disappeared from the music scene for a while to take care of her health.
Missy Elliott has revealed that she was suffering with Graves’ disease — an autoimmune disease that affects the thyroid — as of 2008. Missy reportedly shared details of the diagnosis with People Magazine, saying that the symptoms — including mood swings and weight loss — affected her quickly and unexpectedly.
Elliott is a five time Grammy winner having sold over 30 million records in the United States. Elliott is the only female rapper to have six albums certified platinum by the RIAA, including one double platinum for her 2002 album Under Construction. Elliott is also known for a series of hits and diverse music videos, including “The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly)”, “Hot Boyz”, “Get Ur Freak On”, “Work It”, and the Grammy award-winning video for “Lose Control.” (Wikipedia)
Elliott is an accomplished producer and songwriter. She has worked with Mariah Carey, Whitney Houston, Janet Jackson, Christina Aguilera, and Beyoncé as well as contemporary artists Keyshia Cole, Tamia, Monica and Ciara.
Her recent collaboration on Janet Jackson’s comeback album “BurnitUp” is a hint that more music is coming from Missy. Her return to the music scene is what fans have been craving since her last album dropped back in 2005 when she released, “The Cookbook.”
When talented artists like Missy, Adele, and Janet Jackson return after years away it’s no wonder why they are blowing everyone out of the water. They’re talented and there is a desire for their music.
Missy Elliot’s “WTF (Where They From)” ft. Pharrell is a switch up and a fresh new collaboration. “WTF (Where They From)” is a familiar sound and a nice warm-up. I believe she has a lot more in store for her fans. Her unique style and video concepts are what I am looking forward to seeing in the future.
Although it’s a wonderful opportunity to be rediscovered by consumers, let’s keep the music of our artists who are legends alive so our youth don’t have to discover them on the heels of younger artists. When it comes to Missy the youngins should sit back, watch and learn.
