Queen Latifah Wiki Biography, Age, Height, Family, Husband, Personal Life, Career, Net Worth

Wiki Biography

Wiki Biography:

Original Name:

Dana Elaine Owens

Nickname:

Latifah

Born:

18/03/1970

Birth Place:

Newark, New Jersey, U.S

Profession(s):

Actress
Rapper
Singer
Songwriter
Talk Show Host
Film Producer

Physical Anatomy:

Body Type:

The Apple Shape

Figure Measurements (Approx):

40-45-45

Height (Approx) in cm:

In centimeters – 178 cm, In feet inches- 5’ 10”, In meters – 1.78 m

Weight (Approx) in KG:

In kilograms – 91 kg, In pounds – 201 lbs

Eye Colour:

Dark Brown

Hair Colour:

Light Brown

Queen Latifah Childhood and Background:

Queen Latifah, born Dana Elaine Owens on March 18, 1970, in Newark, New Jersey, has navigated a remarkable journey from the vibrant streets of her hometown to the brightest lights of Hollywood.

Newark Roots:

Latifah’s childhood was shaped by the diverse and energetic atmosphere of Newark.
Raised by her mother, Rita, a schoolteacher, and her father, Lancelot, a police officer, she experienced both the challenges and the strong sense of community that the city offered.
Her early love for music blossomed in the Baptist church and Catholic schools she attended.

Artistic Pursuits:

Latifah’s artistic talents shone through early on.
She excelled in academics, participating in drama productions and even playing power forward on her high school basketball team.
It was at this time that she earned the nickname “Latifah,” meaning “delicate” or “sensitive” in Arabic, a testament to her inner strength and artistic soul.

Musical Breakthrough:

Latifah’s passion for music took center stage when she co-founded the all-female rap group Ladies Fresh in high school.
Their powerful lyrics and performances challenged stereotypes and paved the way for future generations of female rappers.
By 18, Latifah’s demo tape caught the attention of Tommy Boy Records, launching her solo career with the iconic “Wrath of My Madness” in 1988.

Beyond Music:

Latifah’s talents extended far beyond the music scene.
She made her acting debut in the 1991 film “Jungle Fever” and quickly gained recognition for her powerful portrayals in diverse roles.
Her critically acclaimed performance as Matron “Mama Morton” in the 2002 musical “Chicago” earned her an Academy Award nomination, solidifying her place as a multi-faceted artist.

Legacy of Empowerment:

Her influence extends well beyond the confines of the entertainment industry.
She is a vocal advocate for social justice, education, and women’s empowerment.
Through her music, acting, and philanthropic work, she continues to inspire and uplift communities around the world.

Private life:

Home Town:

Newark, New Jersey, U.S.

Nationality:

Indian

Age:

54 Years

Ethnicity:

American

Favorite Hobbies:

Gardening, Cooking, Motorcycling, Philanthropy, Music

Likes/Dislikes:

Likes: Music, Community, Education, Travel, Food, Friends and Family

Dislikes: Negativity, Injustice and Discrimination

Tattoo(s):

A butterfly on her neck. A butterfly on the back of her hand

Food choice:

Nonvegetarian

Now Address:

9465 Wilshire Blvd. Suite 900. Beverly Hills, CA 90212. USA

Relationships and More:

Marital Status:

Unmarried

Boyfriends/Affairs:

Eboni Nichols

Queen Latifah Wiki Biography, Age, Height, Family, Husband, Personal Life, Career, Net Worth

Top choices:

Preferred Actor(s):

N/A

Preferred Actresses:

N/A

Confection:

N/A

Preferred Food:

Zeppole. Steak. Pasta. Baked macaroni & cheese. Funnel cake

Fruit:

N/A

Top Travel Choice:

South Africa, Italy, Caribbean Islands, New Orleans

Favourite Collection:

Cars Collection:

Rolls-Royce Phantom, Jaguar F-Pace SVR, and Cadillac Escalade

Bike Collection:

N/A

Rarely Discussed Facts about Queen Latifah:

Does Queen Latifah Smoker?: No
Does Queen Latifah Drink alcohol?: Absolutely not
From an early age, he displayed a keen enthusiasm for both acting and martial arts, commencing his training during the 8th grade.
Martial Arts Master: Queen Latifah is a trained black belt in karate! She began training at 8 years old and credits it with shaping her discipline and confidence. This physicality even translates into her performances, adding power and presence to her stage persona.
Culinary Queen: Beyond music and acting, Queen Latifah is a passionate cook. She even hosted a cooking show called “Flavor of Latifah” in 2008, showcasing her Southern-inspired recipes and love for bringing people together through food.
Philanthropic Powerhouse: While her generosity is well-known, the depth of Queen Latifah’s philanthropic efforts is often understated. She founded the Queen Latifah Foundation in 1995, which focuses on empowering low-income communities, improving mental health awareness, and providing support for LGBTQ+ youth.
Unexpected Inspiration: Some may be surprised to learn that Queen Latifah was a vocal advocate for chess in schools. She believes chess helps develop strategic thinking, problem-solving skills, and discipline, especially for young people.
Behind the Camera: Queen Latifah has not only acted in films but also directed and produced them. Her directorial debut came in 2004 with the independent film “The Cookout,” showcasing her multifaceted talents behind the scenes.
Voice for Justice: Queen Latifah’s activism extends beyond social programs. She has been a vocal advocate for social justice issues, most notably using her platform to speak out against police brutality and racism. Her powerful voice and influence continue to push for positive change.
Unconventional Path: Before finding success in the entertainment industry, Queen Latifah briefly studied cosmetology and even worked as a security guard at a Burger King. This early hustle and diverse experiences likely contributed to her grounded perspective and relatability.
Musical Evolution: Though known for her rapping, Queen Latifah possesses a soulful singing voice. This versatility shines through in her later musical endeavors, exploring genres like blues, jazz, and even gospel, showcasing her artistic range.
Overcoming Adversity: Queen Latifah faced personal challenges and discrimination throughout her career. Her open vulnerability about these experiences, including childhood bullying and navigating the music industry as a woman and as a lesbian, inspires others to embrace their identities and overcome obstacles.
Enduring Legacy: Queen Latifah’s impact transcends music and acting. She is a role model for women, people of color, and the LGBTQ+ community, paving the way for greater representation and challenging societal norms. Her dedication to empowering others and advocating for social justice ensures her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

Career:

Music Career:-

Queen Latifah 1988–1989: Career beginnings:

Queen Latifah’s rise to musical stardom began not with a bang, but with a beatbox. In the late 1980s, the then-19-year-old Dana Owens, known as Queen Latifah, honed her skills in the vibrant New Jersey hip-hop scene. Let’s delve into this pivotal period of her career:

Early Steps:

Beatboxing Queen: Latifah’s journey started with beatboxing, a rhythmic vocal percussion technique. She joined the all-female group Ladies Fresh, showcasing her talent and laying the foundation for her future lyrical prowess.
Flavor Unit Crew: Latifah became a core member of the Flavor Unit, a collective of rappers and DJs led by producer King Gemini. This creative hub provided a fertile ground for her musical development and collaborations.

Breakthrough and Debut:

“Princess of the Posse”: Latifah’s raw talent caught the attention of DJ King Gemini, who produced her demo track “Princess of the Posse.” This powerful song, addressing female empowerment and social issues, became a turning point.
Fab 5 Freddy and Tommy Boy Records: The demo landed in the hands of Fab 5 Freddy, host of the influential Yo! MTV Raps. Impressed, he connected Latifah with Tommy Boy Records, a major hip-hop label.
“Wrath of My Madness”: In 1988, Latifah’s debut single, “Wrath of My Madness,” dropped. This electrifying track, tackling sexism and societal pressures, established her as a force to be reckoned with in the male-dominated rap scene.

1989 and Beyond:

“All Hail the Queen”: Latifah’s debut album, “All Hail the Queen,” arrived in 1989, solidifying her position as a leading voice in hip-hop. The album addressed social issues like domestic violence and street harassment, resonating with listeners and critics alike.
Continued Success: Latifah’s career flourished in the following years, with hit singles like “U.N.I.T.Y.” and “Ladies First.” She challenged stereotypes, paved the way for future female rappers, and became a cultural icon.

Queen Latifah’s early music career was marked by groundbreaking talent, social consciousness, and a fierce determination to break barriers. Her 1988-1989 period laid the foundation for a long and illustrious career, forever etching her name in the annals of hip-hop history.

Queen Latifah 1989–2002: Rap and hip-hop:

Queen Latifah’s reign in the rap and hip-hop world from 1989 to 2002 was nothing short of legendary. Here’s a deep dive into this pivotal era:

Rise to Fame (1989-1993):

“All Hail the Queen” (1989): Her debut album, a critical and commercial success, established her as a powerful and socially conscious voice in hip-hop. Tracks like “Ladies First” and “Wrath of My Madness” addressed feminism, street harassment, and societal pressures.
“Nature of a Sista” (1991): This album further explored themes of female empowerment and Black identity, with hits like “How Do You Feel?” and “U.N.I.T.Y.” The latter evolved into a feminist anthem, addressing issues of misogyny and garnering her a Grammy Award for Best Rap Solo Performance.
Live performances: Latifah’s energetic and charismatic stage presence captivated audiences worldwide. She challenged traditional hip-hop conventions, wearing African-inspired attire and incorporating jazz elements into her music.

Evolution and Expansion (1994-2002):

“Black Reign” (1993): This album marked a shift towards darker and more introspective themes, exploring topics like poverty, violence, and personal struggles. It was a critical and commercial success, showcasing her growth as an artist.
“Order in the Court” (1998): This album explored legal themes and featured guest appearances from prominent artists like Busta Rhymes and The Notorious B.I.G. While not as commercially successful as previous releases, it showcased her versatility.
Diversification: Latifah’s influence extended beyond music. She acted in films like “Jungle Fever” and “Set It Off,” showcasing her acting talents and reaching a wider audience.
Genre-bending: Towards the end of this period, Latifah began incorporating soul and jazz into her music, culminating in the critically acclaimed “The Dana Owens Album” in 2004.

Legacy and Impact:

Pioneering figure: Queen Latifah is considered one of the most influential female rappers of all time. She paved the way for future generations of artists and challenged gender stereotypes in a male-dominated industry.
Social consciousness: Her music addressed important social issues, sparking conversations about race, gender, and inequality. Using her platform, she advocated for positive initiatives.
Cultural icon: Latifah’s influence transcended music. She became a role model for women of color, promoting self-acceptance and empowerment.

Queen Latifah 2003–2009: Change to traditional singing:

Seeds of Change:

Early hints: Even before 2003, Latifah had shown glimpses of her vocal talent. She incorporated singing into some of her rap songs and delivered memorable performances of jazz and soul standards at live events.
“Order in the Court” (1998): This album featured a few tracks showcasing her singing, like the soulful “He’s Got a Way,” hinting at her artistic exploration.

Embracing Tradition (2003-2007):

“The Dana Owens Album” (2004): This album marked a bold transition, featuring Latifah exclusively singing soul and jazz classics. The title, her real name, further emphasized the shift.
Critical acclaim: The album received critical acclaim, nominated for a Grammy in the “Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album” category. It showcased her powerful vocals and nuanced interpretations of iconic songs.
Live performances: Latifah’s live shows during this period reflected the new direction. She performed at renowned jazz venues like the Hollywood Bowl, showcasing her vocal prowess and connecting with a new audience.
Other ventures: While focusing on singing, she continued acting in films and even hosted a cooking show, “Flavor of Latifah,” demonstrating her diverse talents.

Evolution and Influences (2007-2009):

“Trav’lin’ Light” (2007): This album, while still focusing on traditional singing, incorporated more contemporary influences and collaborations. It featured artists like Erykah Badu and Joe Sample, showcasing her musical range.
Personal inspirations: Latifah’s love for jazz and soul music, along with her desire to explore her vocal abilities and connect with different genres, likely fueled this artistic shift.

Impact and Legacy:

Versatility and artistry: Latifah’s successful transition from rap to traditional singing solidified her position as a versatile and talented artist. It challenged expectations and demonstrated the breadth of her musical abilities.
Inspiring others: Her journey encouraged other artists to explore different genres and embrace their multifaceted talents, paving the way for artistic freedom.
Expanding audience: This shift broadened her audience, connecting with fans of jazz and soul who might not have been familiar with her rap career.

Queen Latifah 2008–present: Return to hip-hop:

Hints of Reemergence (2008-2010):

“Cue the Rain” (2009): This single from her album “Persona” featured a heavier beat and Latifah’s signature lyrical flow, hinting at a return to her hip-hop roots.
Collaborations: Latifah collaborated with prominent rappers like Common on the track “I Got You” and Big Boi on “Mama Knows,” demonstrating her connection to the genre.
Live performances: During this period, she started incorporating more rap into her live shows, blending her soulful vocals with her powerful rapping.

Full-fledged Return (2011-present):

“The Queen Latifah Show” (2013-2015): Hosting her own talk show, Latifah frequently engaged with hip-hop artists and showcased her rap skills in segments like “Freestyle Fridays.”
“U.N.I.T.Y. Remix” (2014): A revamped interpretation of her iconic feminist anthem, this version showcased a powerful collaboration with female rap luminaries such as MC Lyte, Remy Ma, and Yo-Yo, underscoring her lasting impact in the genre.
“Queen Latifah: The Dana Owens Album” (2014): This re-release of her 2004 album included bonus tracks featuring rap verses from Latifah, further blurring the lines between her musical identities.
“Empire” (2015-2020): Playing the ruthless and powerful Cookie Lyon on the hit TV show “Empire,” Latifah embraced a character with strong hip-hop influences, allowing her to showcase her rap persona in a new context.
Recent appearances: Latifah continues to perform rap tracks at live events and collaborate with hip-hop artists, demonstrating her enduring love for the genre.

Significance of the Return:

Breaking boundaries: Latifah’s return to hip-hop after exploring other musical avenues challenged genre limitations and showcased her artistic freedom.
Inspiring new generations: Her comeback demonstrated that artists can evolve and return to their roots, inspiring younger generations to embrace diverse musical expressions.
Celebrating legacy: Latifah’s reconnection with hip-hop cemented her status as a pioneer and paved the way for future female rappers to break barriers.

Film and Television:-

Queen Latifah 1991–2001: Early career:

Breaking into the Scene (1991-1993):

Supporting roles: Latifah started with supporting roles in films like “Juice” (1992) and “Jungle Fever” (1991), showcasing her natural charisma and acting prowess alongside established names.
Guest appearances: She ventured into television, with guest spots on shows like “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” and “Hangin’ with Mr. Cooper,” further broadening her reach.
“Living Single” (1993-1998): The turning point came with the sitcom “Living Single,” where Latifah played Khadijah James, a successful magazine publisher. This groundbreaking show, co-created and starring Latifah, offered a rare portrayal of black women’s lives and friendships, earning critical acclaim and running for six seasons.

Expanding the Range (1994-1998):

Leading roles: Latifah transitioned to leading roles in films like “Chicago Hope” (1994) and “A Walton Easter” (1997), demonstrating her dramatic acting chops.
Diverse genres: She tackled different genres, from the action-comedy “Set It Off” (1996) to the psychological thriller “Living Out Loud” (1998), proving her versatility as an actress.
Box office success: “Set It Off” became a box office hit, further solidifying her presence in Hollywood and opening doors for more complex roles.

Awards and Recognition (1999-2001):

Critical acclaim: Latifah’s portrayal of Detective Alex Diaz in “The Bone Collector” (1999), alongside Denzel Washington and Angelina Jolie, received critical acclaim, earning her Golden Globe and SAG Award nominations.
“The Queen Latifah Show” (1999-2001): She launched her own talk show, showcasing her comedic timing, interviewing skills, and ability to connect with diverse audiences.
Paving the way: Throughout this period, Latifah consistently challenged stereotypes and defied expectations, using her platform to advocate for diversity and representation in Hollywood.

Impact of the Early Film Career:

Pioneering force: Latifah’s early film career paved the way for more nuanced and complex portrayals of black women on screen.
Versatile talent: She established herself as a talented actress capable of handling comedy, drama, action, and everything in between.
Cultural icon: Through her roles and activism, Latifah became a role model for women and young people of color, inspiring them to pursue their dreams in the entertainment industry.

Queen Latifah 2002–present: Mainstream success:

Oscar Recognition and Acting Flourish:

Oscar Nomination (2002): Her powerful performance as Matron “Mama” Morton in the acclaimed musical film “Chicago” earned her an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actress, solidifying her talent and opening doors for bigger roles.
Diverse Roles: Latifah continued to impress with diverse roles in films like “Taxi” (2004), “Barbershop: The Final Cut” (2008), and “Hairspray” (2007), showcasing her comedic timing and dramatic range.
Voice Acting: She lent her voice to beloved characters in animated films like “Ice Age: The Meltdown” (2006) and “Rio” (2011), expanding her reach to younger audiences.

Television Powerhouse:

“The Queen Latifah Show” (2013-2015): She successfully returned to daytime television with her own talk show, garnering praise for her warmth, humor, and engaging interviews with diverse guests.
“Star” (2016-2019): Latifah co-created and starred in the musical drama series “Star,” offering a platform for new musical talents and exploring issues of race, gender, and family.
Executive Producer: She expanded her role behind the camera, executive producing shows like “Survivor’s Remorse” and “Wu-Tang: An American Saga,” further cementing her influence in the television industry.

Crossover Artist:

Music Ventures: Despite focusing on acting, Latifah continued to release music, experimenting with genres like gospel and R&B in albums like “Trav’lin’ Light” (2007) and “Persona” (2009).
Live Performances: She maintained her stage presence through electrifying live performances, often blending singing and rapping, and reminding audiences of her musical roots.
Businesswoman and Philanthropist: Latifah established herself as a successful businesswoman, launching Queen Latifah Productions and fragrances, and remained dedicated to philanthropy through her Queen Latifah Foundation.

Legacy and Enduring Impact:

Role Model: Throughout this period, Latifah continued to be a role model for women, people of color, and the LGBTQ+ community, inspiring others to pursue their dreams and defy stereotypes.
Breaking Barriers: Her success in film, television, and music further broadened representation and opportunities for diverse voices in the entertainment industry.
Enduring Influence: Queen Latifah’s journey from rapper to multi-faceted artist, her commitment to social justice, and her inspiring career path continue to influence and empower generations.

Controversies:

Lyrics and Feuds:

Early Raps: Some of Queen Latifah’s early hip-hop lyrics, particularly from her debut album “All Hail the Queen,” contained homophobic and misogynistic content. While she later apologized and expressed regret, it remains a point of critique and discussion.
Da Queen and Foxy Brown Feud: In the late 90s, a media-fueled feud erupted between Queen Latifah and fellow rapper Foxy Brown. While the specifics are blurry, it involved accusations of disrespect and diss tracks, highlighting challenges of navigating gender dynamics in hip-hop.

Recent Controversies:

“Ok2Milk” Campaign: A recent ad campaign featuring Queen Latifah promoting milk consumption drew criticism from vegan and health advocates, raising concerns about misleading health claims and promoting animal agriculture.
Chris Noth Allegations: As Queen Latifah co-starred with Chris Noth in “The Equalizer,” she faced queries regarding the sexual assault allegations against him. Her comments, emphasizing due process and respect for both sides, sparked debate about survivor support and navigating complex situations.

General Criticisms:

Public Image and Representation: Queen Latifah’s mainstream success and perceived shift in style from her earlier, more radical image have led to critiques of “selling out” or not sufficiently representing black and LGBTQ+ communities.
Business Ventures and Endorsements: Some collaborations, like the aforementioned milk campaign, have raised concerns about aligning with potentially controversial brands or causes.

Social Network:

Instagram:

Dana Elaine Owens Instagram

X (Formarly lnown as Twitter):

Dana Elaine Owens X (Formarly lnown as Twitter)

Facebook:

Dana Elaine Owens Facebook

Wikipedia:

Wikipedia

IMDB:

IMDB

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