Lil' Kim really puts it down for Brooklyn, female rappers and women in general on her 1996 debut album, 'Hardcore'.  In that 4'11'' body of hers, she has alot of strength and courage for taking all the risks and chances that she did in order to get off the streets and make something of herself.  Laced with production mostly from Puffy and the late Biggie Smalls (as well as guest appearances from them and the entire Junior M.A.F.I.A.) the tracks on 'Hardcore' tell the story of a woman's struggle from the slums all the way to the mic and stage.  And that's the theme of all Kim's albums, which is why she's one of my favorite MCs.  She has kept it real and remained consistant throughout her entire career.  People should remember that and give her more recognition.