Queen Latifah: The House that Queen Built

Since debuting in 1989 with the Monie Love duet "Ladies First," Queen Latifah has created an empire. The hip hop pioneer's first album was confidently titled All Hail the Queen; since then, she's cultivated a career as an Oscar nominee, Covergirl model and A-List Hollywood celebrity. In 2007, the Grammy winner added two commercially successful, critically acclaimed films: the musical Hairspray, and Life Support, a thought-provoking film about HIV/AIDS in the black community. Now, she's returning to music with Travel'n' Light, which hit stores yesterday (September 25). A collection of covers from the most legendary jazz artists of our time, this is the Queen's second vocal album, showcasing a cool fusion of jazz and soul. With a passion in her voice, Latifah spoke with VIBE.com about her new album, her frustrations about the current state of hip-hop, the ignored legacy of female rappers and much more. Introducing L-A-T - a must-read interview for anyone who values the hip hop history.
	Published: 2007-09-26 Provider: VIBE