“Paper Thin” by MC Lyte

What happens when you cross Prince’s “17” and Al Green’s “I’m Glad You’re Mine” with Earth Wind and Fire’s “Shining Star”? You get the first single off the first solo female released Hip-Hop album ever.

Lyte as a Rock is the debut album from MC Lyte. It was recorded over the course of two years and released in 1988 on First Priority Music, which was a label created to promote the Audio Two and their various friends. MC Lyte grew up with them, and as her popularity grew, it was only natural that they supported her.

“Paper Thin” was produced by “The King Of Chill” aka Freddie Byrd, and was an instant hit. It was devilishly simple and funky, and a raw attack on philanderers. And although she was only 12 years old and hadn’t had a boyfriend when she originally penned the lyrics, it is still considered a classic.    
​
No, MC Lyte is not the first female rapper, MC Sha-Rock is often credited with that status, and yes, Lyte's appearance on Sinéad O'Connor’s “I Want Your (Hands on Me)” helped promote her career, but whether she knew it or not she was a trailblazer, and influenced a generation of female recording rappers.