BIOGRAPHY
Yo-Yo, born Yolanda Whitaker on August 4, 1971, is an American rapper and actress known for her contributions to West Coast hip-hop. She emerged in the late 1980s and gained prominence during the early 1990s as one of the few female artists in a male-dominated genre.
Yo-Yo's debut album, "Make Way for the Motherlode," was released in 1991 and featured her signature track, "You Can't Play with My Yo-Yo." The song addressed issues of respect and empowerment for women, and its success helped establish Yo-Yo as a prominent figure in the hip-hop scene.
In 1992, she released her second album, "Black Pearl," which included the hit single "Ibwin' with My Crewin'," featuring Ice Cube. Yo-Yo's collaboration with Ice Cube showcased her skills as a rapper and reinforced her presence in the West Coast hip-hop community.
Beyond her music career, Yo-Yo has been an advocate for women in hip-hop and has addressed social issues in her lyrics. She has been involved in community work, using her platform to empower young women and promote education.
Yo-Yo's influence extends beyond her solo career; she has collaborated with various artists and played a significant role in shaping the West Coast hip-hop sound. Her contributions have paved the way for other female artists in the genre.
While her commercial success may not have reached the levels of some of her male counterparts, Yo-Yo remains a respected figure in hip-hop, known for her lyrical prowess, activism, and her impact on the representation of women in the genre.