How Queen Latifah’s Mom Launched Hip-Hop’s First Female Icon – The Untold Story

Rita Owens, the late mother of iconic artist Queen Latifah, was much more than a supportive parent; she was the steadfast rock who helped shape her daughter’s career and identity from the very beginning. As Queen Latifah rose to fame in the late 1980s, Rita played a pivotal role, guiding and encouraging her through the challenges of the music industry, often alongside her at performances, helping to foster early industry connections, and instilling in her daughter the confidence that would later define her groundbreaking career.

A Mother’s Unwavering Support

Rita Owens, a dedicated teacher at Irvington High School, Queen Latifah’s alma mater, was always by her daughter’s side, especially during the formative years of her career. Queen Latifah, born Dana Owens in 1970, began her music career in hip-hop in the late 1980s, with her debut album All Hail the Queen released in 1989. At just 17 years old, Latifah was already making a name for herself in the hip-hop community, and Rita’s support was essential during this critical time.

One of the most defining aspects of Rita’s support was her physical presence during Queen Latifah’s early performances. When her daughter was too young to be out alone, Rita accompanied her to late-night club performances, ensuring her safety and giving her the space to focus on her craft. In an interview with Popsugar, Queen Latifah recalled that Rita’s presence not only provided security but also helped her make important connections within the hip-hop world. Legendary artists such as A Tribe Called Quest, MC Lyte, and Monie Love recognized the bond between mother and daughter, with Monie Love affectionately calling Rita “Umi,” meaning “mother” in Arabic.

Building Connections and Creating Opportunities

Rita Owens was not just a passive supporter; she was actively involved in her daughter’s career. Her early involvement with the hip-hop collective Flavor Unit played a crucial role in Queen Latifah’s rise to fame. Rita helped secure key collaborators for her daughter, including hiring Mark the 45 King as Queen Latifah’s first DJ and producer. This move ultimately led to the creation of Flavor Unit, a collective of MCs and DJs that would later evolve into Flavor Unit Entertainment.

Flavor Unit Entertainment, co-founded by Rita Owens, Queen Latifah, and Shakim Compere, became a major force in the industry. Based in Jersey City, New Jersey, the company helped manage artists such as Naughty by Nature and OutKast, providing Queen Latifah with vital networking opportunities and industry exposure. The collective’s success became a foundation for Queen Latifah’s career, with the early collaborations featured on albums like Queen Latifah and the Original Flavor Unit propelling her into the spotlight.

Rita’s strategic vision and industry savvy were critical in helping Queen Latifah secure record deals and establish herself as a prominent figure in the entertainment world. Without her mother’s guidance, Queen Latifah’s path to success may have been much more challenging.

Confidence, Purpose, and a Strong Identity

Queen Latifah has repeatedly credited her mother for instilling in her the confidence and sense of purpose that would later define her career. In the Popsugar interview, she expressed, “I would not be where I am today” without her mother’s support. Rita’s unwavering belief in hip-hop, which she saw as more than just a passing trend, encouraged her daughter to pursue her dreams without hesitation. Queen Latifah reflected on how her mother encouraged her to “go for it,” a mindset that helped her succeed in an industry often dominated by men.

This deep connection to her mother’s guidance is also evident in Queen Latifah’s reflections on the 50th anniversary of hip-hop. In a heartfelt statement to People magazine, she expressed how much she loved and missed her mother, acknowledging her as a crucial part of her success. Queen Latifah has often spoken about the importance of embracing her strong Black identity and resisting Eurocentric standards, a value that Rita instilled in her from an early age.

A Legacy of Love and Support

Rita Owens’ legacy lives on in her daughter, Queen Latifah, whose career continues to influence generations of artists. Beyond the professional support, it was the emotional strength and belief in Queen Latifah’s potential that made Rita such an impactful figure in her daughter’s life. Through her love, mentorship, and dedication, Rita Owens shaped the person and artist that Queen Latifah would become, creating a bond that would remain unbreakable even after her passing.

In a world where success often depends on talent and timing, Rita Owens demonstrated that the unwavering love and guidance of a mother can make all the difference. Queen Latifah’s continued success is a testament to the power of family, and to the profound influence Rita Owens had on her daughter’s journey to becoming a global icon.