Queen Latifah took the stage at this year’s Long Beach Lesbian & Gay Pride Festival in the Southern California city Saturday (May 19), and her highness was happy to be in the presence of “her people,” according to EUR Web. Inquiries into her sexual preference have long followed Latifah, and headlining the event— now in its 29th year—may have marked a coming-out of sorts for the mogul. “I’ve been waiting to do this for a long time,” she told the crowd.
During her set, the 42-year-old encouraged the reported 100,000 people in attendance to “to conquer hate with love,” and ran through the likes of “U.N.I.T.Y.” and “Ladies First.” Latifah also commented on the state of female rap. Despite the fact that Nicki Minaj, Azealia Banks, Iggy Azalea, and a slew of other newcomers consistently grab music headlines, the Queen stated that the culture is “missing the female voice.”
Over her more than 20-year career the New Jersey native has laid the ground work for rappers transitioning from music into other ventures. Since stepping away from the rap game she has earned an Oscar nomination, is spokesperson for Covergirl cosmetics, and has become a successful TV producer. Her latest project, a remake of Steel Magnolias, is due to premiere on Lifetime.
MORE ON HIP-HOP WIRED!
• Bout to Blow: 7 Hip-Hop Labels Accused Of Being Fronts For Illegal Drug Operations
• Jay-Z, Kanye West (& Kim Kardashian) Kick Off European Leg Of Watch The Throne Tour [PHOTOS/VIDEO]
• 6 Rappers Who Lied About Retiring From The Game
• Mercy: 10 Hip-Hop Artists Who Chose To Die Another Day
• 5 Reasons Why Blue Ivy Carter Will Have A Better Rap Career Than Lil B
• 10 Dope Rap Acts Who Could Not Top Their Freshman Albums
• Bangin Candy: Rico Love’s Division 1 Recording Artist, Rabbit
• The Awkward Moments Between Jay-Z And Freeway At The Made In America Press Conference [PHOTOS]
—
Photo: Okay Player
