By: Patricia Trutescu

The female pioneer of rap and member of Boogie Down Productions, Ramona Scott, who performed under the name, Ms. Melodie, passed away yesterday at the age of 43. The cause of her death is currently unknown.

Ms. Melodie recorded her first single, “Hype According to Ms. Melodie” in 1988. Her first album Diva was released on Jive Records a year later. She was also featured in the legendary rap single “Self Destruction” and performed a short cameo in Queen Latifah’s music video for “Ladies First.”

According to TheGrio.com, Melodie hit the rap scene in the late 80s as part of a hip-hop collective that was known for socially conscious rap. Her lyrics promoted peace, and she encouraged young people to place education first and steer clear of a life of drugs and violence. She was often known as the one of the Godmother’s of rap.

Friends and fans have sent their condolences over Twitter. Talib Kweli tweeted, “I’m Ms. Melodie and I’m a born again rebel. Rest in power sister.” Monifah added, “RIP Miss Melody. Please keep her children, family & loved ones in ur prayers. #HipHopRoyalty.”