60 Songs That Explain the '90s

“Work It”—Missy Elliott

Nov 20, 2024
Justin Charity, a senior staff writer at The Ringer known for his keen insights into music and culture, joins to talk about Missy Elliott's monumental impact on hip-hop. They delve into her legacy, focusing on the groundbreaking nature of 'Work It' and its unforgettable lyrics. The conversation celebrates Missy's resilience, unique artistry, and revolutionary music videos. Charity also elaborates on the challenges she faced alongside Timbaland, emphasizing how their partnership transformed the genre and left an indelible mark on future artists.
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ANECDOTE

DJ Camp Disaster

  • Rob Harvilla recounts his disastrous experience at DJ camp, highlighting his struggles with beat matching and scratching.
  • His attempt to mix Wyclef Jean's "The Gambler" with Chingy's "Right There" ended in a tempo mismatch.
ANECDOTE

Missy Elliott's Saving Grace

  • At DJ camp, Harvilla's four-song mix, including Wyclef, Chingy, 50 Cent, and Missy Elliott, was a failure.
  • However, playing Missy Elliott's "Back in the Day" was the highlight, proving her universal appeal.
INSIGHT

Missy Elliott's Impact

  • Missy Elliott's music significantly elevated the hip-hop scene in 2004.
  • Her impact makes the genre's evolution worthwhile despite some questionable trends.
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