Missy Elliott Is The FIRST Female Hip-Hop Artist To Be Inducted Into The Songwriters Hall Of Fame

The Songwriters Hall of Fame honors some of the most iconic and revered names in music history, praising artists like Justin Timberlake, John Prine, and the night's history bending artist ( from edgy clothing to out of this world music video production), Missy Elliott.

Missy Elliott and Ariana Grande at Cicada on Feb. 13, 2016 in Los Angeles. via Billboard

The  hip-hop sensation became the first female rapper to be inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.  Elliot was evidently emotional and couldn’t contain her  tears. " I want to say one thing to the writers, the upcoming writers, "she said after Queen Latifah and Michelle Obama introduced her. “ Don't give up. We're all go through writer’s block. You just need to walk away from a record sometimes and get back to it. But don't give up because I'm standing here. And this is big for hip-hop, " she shared as the crowd erupted into cheers.

Aaliyah and Missy Elliott attend the 12th Annual Soul Train Music Awards on Feb. 27, 1998. via Billboard

Elliott is the third rapper ever to enter the Hall of Fame — following the likes of  Jermaine Dupri and Jay Z — and accepted the prize alongside other songwriting heavyweights such as, Dallas Austin, Jack Tempchin ,and John Prine.  The songwriters are only eligible for induction into the Hall of Fame  after writing hits for at least 20 years. Elliott has written her own songs, as well as songs for Beyoncé,  Mariah Carey, Ariana Grande, and Aaliyah.

Cover image via Hollywood Reporter