43: MC Lyte – Powerful Women of 2013

Being in the rap game since 1986, it’s safe to say that Mc Lyte has seen the evolution of hip-hop over the years. Fortunately, she still remains a player on the field. With seven albums under her belt and hits like ‘Cha Cha Cha’ and ‘Keep On, Keepin’ On’ with Xscape, Lyte has received numerous accolades including being one of the female emcees honored at VH1's Hip Hop Honors in 2006.

Also, her turntables, vinyl and other things were donated to the Smithsonian and became part of Hip-Hop Won’t Stop: The Beat, the Rhymes, the Life – a program that documents the early days of hip-hop.

But perhaps what makes her a strong woman and one who deserves to be on this list is her role as president of the Los Angeles Chapter of the Recording Academy. Not only is she the first African-American to serve in the role, she also has proven that the power of hip-hop can transcend the craft and make a difference.