Lil’ Kim is the ultimate representation that royalty reigns supreme in hip-hop. The Queen Bee has been a leader in the game for three decades. From classic albums like Hard Core to inspiring many of the women rapping today, the multiplatinum-selling MC continues to get the respect she deserves. In celebration of the 50-year anniversary of hip-hop this summer, Lil’ Kim graces XXL’s Legends cover, a digital series celebrating some of the most impactful artists in hip-hop’s history.

Watch Lil’ Kim discuss her illustrious career, being an icon, learning from The Notorious B.I.G., her classic album Hard Core, writing on Diddy’s album, her favorite songs and more.