She’s a powerful voice in the rap game who’s holding it down for her girls. Flakiss is a rapper breaking into a predominantly male field. But it’s clear she has the balls to do it. In a world where radio worships 50 cent, Fat Joe and OGs like Snoop, this strong willed 20-something Mexican-American represents her women with honor. “I’m on the same level, that’s why I wanted to rap, to put it down for the girls too. It’s not a guy thing like everybody says it is. It’s a rap thing. It’s whomever could do it. It doesn’t matter if you’re female or male.”
Flakiss grew up in the rough section of South Central L.A. where drive bys and friends dying from street violence was an everyday thing. Her father walked out when she was young. Her mom was left to support six kids by working three jobs. Lack of female MCs with staying power made her turn to NWA, Tupac and Notorious B.I.G. But she also counts Missy Elliot and reggatone rapper Ivy Queen as inspirations.
Her debut CD, Liberate (Univison Records), is a potent version of girl power. The CD is a menagerie of songs for girls and women, encouraging them to stay strong and respect themselves. She has created a hybrid of funky beats with a clear message. She pulls it together, stands her ground and speaks her mind for her girls. “It makes me feel like it does make a difference. To know that my song actually made a difference in their life, it’s really a good feeling.”
