TV REVIEW: ABC's "Queens" Flourish In Y2K Nostalgia and Present-Day Relatability

By Paige Boyd, Managing Editor

The brief history of Hip-Hop, through the world of scripted TV, is a bit murky at times. Some shows hit the mark (like Hulu's Wu-Tang: An American Saga), some didn't quite make the cut (VH1's The Breaks), and some were so extra with their "extra-ness" that you totally forget what the premise was in the first place. (Sorry, Empire. Still love you for the culture.)

Thankfully, so far, ABC's latest foray into this genre shows great promise. Queens follows four women that were at the top of the Hip-Hop world in the midst of early 2000's excess, only to lose it all. With their glory days behind them, a chance opportunity brings them back together 20 years later, sending them on a journey to recapture their friendship, their self-respect, and their place in the rap zeitgeist.

Part of the allure of the show is that three of the leading ladies are a part of the Hip-Hop/R&B world. Former Ruff Ryders lyricist Eve, R&B icon Brandy, and ex-girl group singer/ Power actress Naturi Naughton bring their own experiences in the music business to provide the authenticity that a lot of these dramas lack. Along with actress Nadine Velazquez (from Major Crimes & My Name Is Earl), the ladies are able to create a narrative that is both genuine and entertaining. With writer/executive producer Zahir McGhee (Scandal) handling the story and music producer Swizz Beatz handling the soundtrack, Queens is a refreshing look back at Y2K-era urban music without trying too hard.

The show does a great job in painting a vivid picture that balances the challenges that women face in the male-dominated genre of Hip-Hop and the struggles they deal with in their personal lives. Not only do we get to see what led to their musical falling-out (personal beef, shady business deals, etc), but also the issues they have dealt with outside of the limelight. (broken marriage, living a double life, paternity issues, etc.) The beauty in this is that it's not heavy on the "woe, it's me" narrative. It's a redemption story, a realistic narrative on what it looks like to rediscover your sense of self and relying on a sisterhood at a time when you need them most.

Sisterhood is the true theme of the show, and unfortunately, it is a theme that seems to be missing from today's Hip-Hop scene. At a time when the mainstream is more interested in seeing female emcees bicker back and forth on social media, this show is a breath of fresh air with amazing bars and catchy beats. As a series that provides a female gaze to a genre that is often heavy on toxic masculinity, Queens is a reminder to women that, in business or in life, you can rely on your tribe for a crown adjustment.

Queens airs Tuesday nights, 10pm EST, on ABC.