For one reason or another, up until recently at least, British rappers always had an uphill struggle trying to reach US audiences. The likes of Dizzee, Giggs and to an extent Rodney P, have all made huge inroads now, but back in 1991 things were very different. London Posse had legitimised London accents in UK hip-hop, but our American brothers and sisters still weren't interested.

With one exception. Monie Love, the Wandsworth-born daughter of esteemed jazz musician Basil Gooden, found huge success over there. As a member of the now legendary Native Tongues movement (alongside Tribe, De La Soul, Jungle Brothers and more) she became one of the most respected figures in early '90s rap and R&B. She even mentored a young Queen Latifah at one point. 

None of this would have been possible if she didn't have the tracks to back it up. Her biggest hit to date is the downright anthemic "It's A Shame (My Sister)", a track we should all know by know, but her entire catalogue is worthy of your attention. Take a look below to see her and singer True Image wow the audience at Soul Train in 1991 with the signature hit.