Yolanda “Yo-Yo” Whitaker, known for her powerful voice and advocacy for female empowerment, is a prominent American rapper and actress hailing from South Los Angeles. She began her professional journey in the early 1990s as a protégé of Ice Cube, making her debut on his iconic album “AmeriKKKa’s Most Wanted” with the track “It’s a Man’s World.” This collaboration set the stage for her own career, leading to the release of her debut album, “Make Way for the Motherlode,” in 1991, which peaked at #74 on the Billboard 200 and showcased her unique style and message.

Following her debut, Yo-Yo released her critically acclaimed second album, “Black Pearl,” in 1992. The album was praised for its positive themes and uplifting messages, which stood in stark contrast to the prevailing gangsta rap style of the time. Despite its critical success, the album did not achieve the commercial success anticipated, yet it solidified her reputation as a voice for women in hip-hop. She continued to build on her discography with albums like “You Better Ask Somebody” and “Total Control,” further establishing her presence in the music industry.

In addition to her music career, Yo-Yo has made significant contributions to film and television. She appeared in the groundbreaking film “Boyz n the Hood” and had a recurring role on the popular TV show “Martin.” Her versatility as an artist is evident in her participation in various projects, including voice work for the video game “Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas.”

Beyond her artistic endeavors, Yo-Yo is dedicated to community advocacy, founding the Yo-Yo School of Hip-Hop to support at-risk students. She has also been involved in discussions about the representation of women in hip-hop, testifying before a Senate Judiciary Committee in 1994. Currently, she continues to inspire through her cooking show “Downright Delicious with Yo-Yo” and her participation in the BET reality series “Hip Hop Sisters,” showcasing her enduring influence in the entertainment industry.