Canadian hip-hop icon Michie Mee is ecstatic after being informed by Canada Post that she will soon be featured on an official postage stamp. Known as the pioneer of Canadian rap, Michie Mee expressed her disbelief and overwhelming joy upon receiving the news. She will be part of a series of stamps honoring Canadian hip-hop influencers for Black History Month in February, alongside Maestro Fresh Wes and Muzion.
Canada Post stated in a press release that each artist was instrumental in shaping the hip-hop and rap scene 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 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 into their music.
This year marks the first time Canada Post is dedicating stamps to hip-hop artists for Black History Month, a tradition started in 2009. Michie Mee, born Michelle Ann Camille McCullock, was the first Canadian hip-hop artist signed in the U.S. back in 1988. Reflecting on her career, she highlighted the challenges faced by Canadian hip-hop artists in a time when the genre was underrepresented and underappreciated.
The unveiling of the Canadian hip-hop stamps is scheduled for a private event at The Concert Hall in Toronto on Jan. 27, with public availability in February. Michie Mee, appreciative of the honor, expressed her gratitude for being recognized in this way. She emphasized the unity and community built by pioneering hip-hop artists in Canada, fostering collaboration across different musical genres.
Looking forward, Michie Mee shared words of wisdom for aspiring Canadian artists, urging them to stay focused, believe in themselves, and enjoy the journey. With a positive outlook on her legacy and the future of Canadian hip-hop, Michie Mee remains grateful for the recognition and the opportunity to inspire the next generation of artists.