Canadian rap icon Michie Mee is ecstatic after receiving news from Canada Post. The pioneering rapper and actress, often referred to as the godmother of Canadian rap, will soon be featured on an official Canadian postage stamp.
In an interview with Nil Kӧksal on As It Happens, Michie Mee expressed her disbelief and overwhelming joy upon learning about the honor. She will be part of a series of three stamps recognizing Canadian hip-hop trailblazers for Black History Month in February. The other artists featured alongside her are Toronto rapper and producer Maestro Fresh Wes and Quebec trio Muzion.
Canada Post highlighted that each artist contributed significantly to shaping the hip-hop and rap genre in Canada. Michie Mee, originally from Jamaica and raised in Toronto, was among the first to incorporate Jamaican patois into her music. Maestro Fresh Wes broke into the mainstream with his 1989 hit single “Let Your Backbone Slide,” while Muzion introduced a unique blend of French, English, and Haitian Creole into their music.
This marks the first time Canada Post has dedicated stamps to hip-hop artists, although they have been releasing stamps for Black History Month since 2009. Michie Mee, born Michelle Ann Camille McCullock, reflected on her journey as a Canadian hip-hop artist, emphasizing the challenges faced during the genre’s early days in Canada.
The unveiling of the Canadian hip-hop stamps is set for a private event on January 27 at The Concert Hall in Toronto, with public availability in February. Michie Mee expressed gratitude for the recognition, acknowledging the importance of unity within the Canadian music scene and embracing her identity through the stamp.
Looking ahead, Michie Mee shared advice for aspiring Canadian artists, urging them to stay focused, believe in themselves, and enjoy the journey. She emphasized the significance of perseverance and self-belief in the face of challenges, encouraging artists to find joy in the process of creating music.
