MC Lyte – “Make A Livin'” [VIDEO]
MC Lyte Drops Visuals for “Make A Livin'” with Powerful Tribute to Nipsey Hussle
Hip-hop pioneer MC Lyte has returned with a music video for her latest single, “Make A Livin’,” which showcases her signature style while delivering a poignant message of perseverance and resilience. Directed with a gritty, authentic edge, the video features stunning visuals, including a tribute to the late Nipsey Hussle, symbolizing the hustle and determination needed to thrive in today’s world. With fans lauding her as the “female Nas,” MC Lyte’s latest release has captured the essence of hip-hop’s golden era while staying relevant in the modern age.
For MC Lyte, this video isn’t just about paying homage to the grind, it’s a reflection of her own journey as a trailblazer in hip-hop. The visuals offer a powerful reminder of her deep roots in the culture, showing that she hasn’t lost touch with the struggle that shaped her career. The tribute to Nipsey Hussle further solidifies this connection—linking the past, present, and future of the genre in a seamless way. Fans familiar with Lyte’s storied career will recognize the depth behind every scene, while newer listeners will be drawn into her message of authenticity and hustle.
A Visual Representation of Grit and Determination
The “Make A Livin’” music video serves as both an anthem for the hustle and a celebration of the culture that shaped MC Lyte into the icon she is today. The video opens with a striking scene of Lyte walking down a quiet, sunlit street, wearing a jacket that reads “Delta Don,” a subtle nod to her sorority roots. As she strolls, the video cuts between shots of busy city streets and moments of personal reflection, emphasizing the song’s core message of perseverance.
One of the most powerful visuals in the video is Lyte rapping in front of a mural of Nipsey Hussle, a fellow icon whose life and career embodied the very principles she highlights in her lyrics. The imagery of Hussle’s mural serves as a tribute to his legacy and reinforces the message that, despite the challenges, success is attainable through hard work and determination. Fans have expressed their admiration for this scene, with one YouTube commenter calling her “the female Nas,” further solidifying her status as one of hip-hop’s greats.
Lyrics Rooted in Empowerment and Realness
The song itself, produced by Warryn Campbell, mixes classic hip-hop elements with slower, more reflective melodies. MC Lyte’s lyrics take center stage as she advocates for maintaining the hustle, staying focused, and overcoming adversity. In the first verse, she raps:
“Don’t kill time, breathe life in the moment / My word, I could own it, hate, I don’t condone it.”
These lines reflect her message of living in the moment and pushing forward no matter what obstacles arise. The chorus reinforces this sentiment, emphasizing that everyone has to find a way to make a living, whether through hard work or creativity:
“Women producing, children growing / Men go work, but some go stealing / Corner hustlin’, friends bus-taking / Everyone’s got to make a living.”
The combination of real, unfiltered lyrics and the accompanying visual elements gives fans a glimpse into MC Lyte’s worldview—a vision of empowerment, survival, and thriving in a world that often feels stacked against you.
Fans’ Reactions: A Return to Real Hip-Hop
Fans have eagerly embraced MC Lyte’s return, with YouTube comments overflowing with praise for both the song and video. Viewers have noted her ability to maintain the essence of hip-hop while avoiding the over-commercialized trends often seen in today’s music. One fan wrote, “🔥🔥🔥 no ratchetness, no mumble rap, just bars and an adult vibe.” Another echoed this sentiment, stating, “No twerking detected! Dopeness only!!!”
These reactions reflect the broader appreciation for artists like MC Lyte who continue to uphold the values of real hip-hop—lyrics, skill, and authenticity. In a time when over-sexualization and superficial content dominate many music videos, “Make A Livin’” stands out as a refreshing return to the culture’s roots. As one fan commented, “Little girls of the world, take notes!!!” highlighting the importance of role models like MC Lyte for the next generation of women in hip-hop.
The Legacy of a Hip-Hop Pioneer
MC Lyte’s influence in the genre cannot be overstated. With her ninth album 1 of 1, released in 2024, she reaffirms her place as one of the genre’s most respected figures. The album, produced by heavyweights such as Warryn Campbell, Nottz, DJ Scratch, Easy Mo Bee, The King of Chill, Koncept, and Cory Mo, brings together some of the most influential names in hip-hop production, ensuring that 1 of 1 is a sonic masterpiece. Featuring collaborations with Stevie Wonder, Mary Mary, Queen Latifah, Ghostface Killah, Q-Tip, Common, Salt, Big Daddy Kane, and Raheem DeVaughn, the album highlights MC Lyte’s ability to evolve while staying true to her roots.
After a nine-year hiatus, 1 of 1 marks her first studio album since the 2015 release of Legend. Fans and critics alike have praised the project, with one fan stating, “This song is DOPE! She looks beautiful ❤” and another exclaiming, “The old school is returning in FORCE.”
A Message for the New and Old School
MC Lyte’s “Make A Livin’” transcends generations, resonating with both her core fanbase and a younger audience looking for substance in their music. While the visuals serve as a reminder of the grind and the perseverance needed to succeed, the lyrics remind us that staying true to one’s principles is essential. In a music industry often driven by trends and momentary fame, MC Lyte stands tall as a beacon of authenticity.
The video, from the imagery of bustling city life to intimate reflective moments, mirrors the realities of chasing success and the dedication required to thrive. The Nipsey Hussle mural provides a symbolic connection between two legends—Lyte, a pioneer for women in hip-hop, and Hussle, a symbol of grit, determination, and community empowerment. Together, they represent the importance of leaving a legacy rooted in authenticity and hard work.
Conclusion: MC Lyte’s Everlasting Impact
MC Lyte’s return with “Make A Livin’” serves as a testament to her enduring relevance and influence in the world of hip-hop. As fans celebrate her artistry and authenticity, it’s clear that she remains one of the most respected and admired figures in the genre. With her poignant lyrics, powerful visuals, and unwavering message, MC Lyte continues to inspire, proving that real hip-hop will always have a place in the culture.
Looking forward, it’s exciting to think about how MC Lyte will continue to shape the next era of hip-hop. Her return with 1 of 1 and the “Make A Livin’” video is just the beginning of what promises to be an impactful chapter in her career. As one of the foundational voices in hip-hop, MC Lyte is not only adding to her already rich legacy but also setting the standard for future generations of artists. By staying true to her roots while still evolving, she exemplifies the staying power of real talent in an industry that constantly shifts and changes.