Burlington TWP. — Nadirah Simmons believes that much of the rich history of black culture has yet to be written.
Now, local writers are doing their part to document one part of that legacy — the role of women in hip-hop.
She tells their story in a new book: First Things First: The Game-Changing Ladies of Hip-Hop. “
“The ‘Firsts’ in this book show how women in hip-hop pushed the limits of what was previously thought possible and paved the way for those who followed them,” Simmons writes in the book’s introduction .
Spanning more than 320 pages arranged like an album track list, Simmons’ book showcases the impact of hip-hop women on music, fashion, radio and television and more.
The lineup includes artists and icons such as singer and actress Queen Latifah, rapper Nicki Minaj and streetwear designer April Walker, who attended the book launch April Walker).
First Things First also engages readers through games, graphics, and art.
Simmons said the book is important because “many strong and successful women are overlooked in hip-hop.”
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Additionally, she said, “As a black person, I feel like we need to document ourselves.”
Why write a story about the history of women in hip-hop?
Becoming a writer wasn’t on Simmons’ radar until she was asked to write a book.
In fact, she majored in journalism at Rutgers University, where she often explored “the intersections of blackness, women, and hip-hop,” according to an online biography.
Simmons previously served as a social media producer for “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” and in 2018 launched The Gumbo, a platform focused on “the extraordinary creativity and activism of black women in hip-hop and a A safe haven from political influence” website.
When Simmons was writing a profile for author Shay Serrano, the writer asked if she could host a book launch party.
Simmons, a Burlington Township native, moved to Los Angeles in search of inspiration.
“New York feels so busy, but here, it feels like home,” Simmons said of Los Angeles. “If anyone wants to write a book, I recommend you find your passion and I highly recommend you move here.”
Simmons today described South Jersey as “a comfortable, breathing place.”
Feedback from readers made her feel good about the work.
But Simmons is also surprised by “how open and willing people are to learn about this obscure part of women’s history in hip-hop.”
The book is available at major retailers and online such as Amazon.
Nick Butler is an impact reporter for The Courier-Mail, The Daily Journal and the Burlington County Times, covering community news in South Jersey. Any advice or stories? Please contact NButler@Gannett.com. Subscribe to stay updated.
