Canadian hip-hop icon Michie Mee is elated after being informed by Canada Post that she will be featured on an official postage stamp. Recognized as the godmother of Canadian rap, Michie Mee expressed her excitement at the news, calling it a surreal moment of joy.
She will grace one of three stamps dedicated to honoring Canadian hip-hop pioneers for Black History Month in February, alongside Toronto’s Maestro Fresh Wes and Quebec’s Muzion. Canada Post highlighted that Michie Mee, who hails from Jamaica and grew up in Toronto, was a trailblazer for incorporating Jamaican patois into her lyrics.
This marks the first time that Canada Post is releasing stamps celebrating hip-hop artists, following its annual tradition of issuing stamps for Black History Month since 2009. Michie Mee, also known as Michelle Ann Camille McCullock, made history as the first Canadian hip-hop artist to secure a U.S. record deal in 1988.
Reflecting on her journey, Michie Mee emphasized the challenges faced by Canadian hip-hop artists in the past, navigating an underfunded and underappreciated music scene. She underscored the resilience and impact of her generation in shaping the Canadian hip-hop landscape, despite facing obstacles in gaining recognition.
The unveiling of the hip-hop stamps is set for a private event at The Concert Hall in Toronto on Jan. 27, with public availability in February. While grateful for the honor, Michie Mee expressed her appreciation for being alive to witness this milestone in her career. She encouraged aspiring artists to stay true to themselves, embrace the journey, and find joy in the process, emphasizing the importance of self-belief and perseverance.