Canadian hip-hop icon Michie Mee is ecstatic following her conversation with Canada Post. The influential rapper, also known as the godmother of Canadian rap, is set to be featured on an official postage stamp.
Expressing her excitement, Michie Mee shared with As It Happens host Nil KÓ§ksal that she was initially in disbelief but quickly became overwhelmed with joy upon receiving the news. She will grace one of three stamps dedicated to Canadian hip-hop pioneers for Black History Month in February, alongside Toronto rapper and producer Maestro Fresh Wes, and Quebec group Muzion.
Canada Post highlighted that each artist played a significant role in shaping the hip-hop and rap scene in Canada. Michie Mee, who hails from Jamaica but was raised in Toronto, was credited for incorporating Jamaican patois into her lyrics. Maestro Fresh Wes made history as the first Canadian MC to achieve mainstream success with his hit single “Let Your Backbone Slide,” while Muzion introduced a unique blend of French, English, and Haitian Creole in their music.
This year marks the first time Canada Post has featured hip-hop artists on stamps for Black History Month since 2009. Michie Mee, born Michelle Ann Camille McCullock, reflected on the challenges faced by Canadian hip-hop artists in the past due to lack of recognition and support. Despite the obstacles, they persisted in creating a vibrant hip-hop scene in Canada.
The upcoming stamp unveiling event will take place at The Concert Hall in Toronto on Jan. 27, with the stamps becoming available to the public in February. Michie Mee expressed gratitude for being chosen for this honor and emphasized the importance of embracing one’s true self. She also shared words of wisdom for aspiring Canadian artists, urging them to stay focused, believe in themselves, and enjoy the journey in the music industry.