Missy Elliot Released “Supa Dupa Fly” 24 Years Ago Today

Missy “Misdemeanor” Elliott released Supa Dupa Fly 24 years ago today (July 15, 1997). Her offbeat style and futuristic production made her a trailblazer.  The first collaboration with Virginia-based super-producer Timbaland proved to have the Midas touch. The album debuted at number three on the Billboard 200, the highest-charting debut for a female rapper at the time. It also went platinum in the United States and silver in the United Kingdom.

Beep, Beep. Vroom. A Visionary of Sight and Sound

Missy Elliot’s first single, The Rain was a runaway hit. Her delivery was playfully fun while the beats bounced along with stuttering basslines.  The music video, directed by Hype Williams, was a groundbreaking victory in its own right.  It was the perfect introduction to her bold entrance into Hip Hop. Nothing looked or sounded like it before. It showcased her iconic style and colorful aesthetic. What is more memorable than her patent leather suit and her rhythmic bounce in her Hummer? Nominated for Best Rap Video at the 1997 MTV VMAs, the video also featured cameos from Hip Hop titans Diddy, Lil’ Kim, Total, Da Brat, and a host of others.

Standing the Test of Time

In 2020, Supa Dupa Fly was ranked 93 in Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Albums of All Time.  It spawned a string of hits which include Sock It 2 Me and Beep Me 911. Missy and Timbaland’s creative chemistry was undeniable. Timbaland was the sole producer at the helm. His innovative use of digital sounds and unconventional rhythms became his signature. That style married with Missy’s singing, rhyming and giggling crafted a most solid piece of work.

Missy “Misdemeanor” Elliott has achieved musical magic. After 24 years, Supa Dupa Fly still feels fresh while lending itself to feel-good nostalgia.

Written by Sharon Garza