They were the iconic female teen sensation rap duo from the 1980s, who made waves in the music industry with their catchy tunes and unique style, all related to the Miami Hip Hop climes.

In the vibrant music scene of the late 1980s, a new wave of hip-hop was emerging, defined by energetic beats, catchy hooks, and charismatic performers. Among the pioneers of this era was L'Trimm, a female rap duo that carved out a unique niche with their playful style and infectious sound. Composed of Lady Tigra (Rachel de Rougemont) and Bunny D (Elana Cager), L'Trimm quickly became a symbol of fun and youthful exuberance in hip-hop, capturing the hearts of fans across the nation.

L'Trimm was formed in 1987 in Miami, Florida, during a time when the city was becoming a hotbed for innovative musical styles. Rachel de Rougemont and Elana Cager met in high school and bonded over their mutual love for music, particularly hip-hop. Both aspiring rappers, they began collaborating on music projects and soon realized that their chemistry was something special.

The duo took the name "L'Trimm" from an experience in which they trimmed hair during a sleepover. This playful and quirky name perfectly encapsulated their approach to music—fun, light-hearted, and engaging. Influenced by the burgeoning Miami bass sound, a subgenre known for its deep bass and danceable rhythms, L'Trimm was set to make their mark.

Breakthrough with "Cars That Go Boom"

In 1988, L'Trimm released their debut album, "Grab It!", under the Hot Productions label. The album included the single "Cars That Go Boom," which would become their signature hit. The song's catchy hook and infectious energy resonated with audiences, propelling it to the top of various music charts.

"Cars That Go Boom" was a celebration of car culture, which was particularly significant in Miami at the time. The track showcased L'Trimm's playful lyrical style, combining humor and charm. With lyrics like:

 "We like the cars, the cars that go boom. We're Tigra and Bunny and we like the boom"

L'Trimm captured the spirit of the era and found a dedicated fan base among both hip-hop enthusiasts and mainstream listeners.

Following the success of their debut album, L'Trimm continued to ride the wave of popularity with their second album, "Drop That Bottom," released in 1989. This album solidified their status in the hip-hop community, as they continued to experiment with beats and rhythms that appealed to their growing audience.

The duo's style was a distinctive blend of Miami bass and pop rap, characterized by upbeat tempos and humorous lyrics. Their music videos often featured colorful and vibrant visuals that matched their lively personalities. L'Trimm's fashion sense also reflected the bold and playful aesthetics of the late 80s, often wearing bright clothing, chunky jewelry, and eccentric hairstyles that complemented their unique identity.

Challenges and Legacy

Despite their early success, L'Trimm faced challenges in maintaining their momentum as the 1990s approached. The rapidly evolving hip-hop landscape, which began to favor more hardcore and gritty sounds, contrasted with L'Trimm's playful style. In 1991, they released their third album, "Groovy," which didn't achieve the same level of success as their earlier works.

L'Trimm eventually disbanded, as both members pursued separate paths in the music industry and their personal lives. However, their impact on hip-hop, particularly as female artists in a male-dominated genre, remains significant. They paved the way for future female rappers, demonstrating that women could succeed and make a mark in the hip-hop world with their unique voices.

L'Trimm's influence can still be seen in contemporary hip-hop. They were among the first female rappers to achieve mainstream success, opening doors for future artists like Salt-N-Pepa, Queen Latifah, and Missy Elliott. Their playful and accessible style helped break down barriers and expand the audience for hip-hop music, making it more inclusive and diverse.

The duo's music has also experienced a resurgence in popularity, thanks in part to nostalgia-driven playlists and retrospectives that celebrate the golden age of hip-hop. "Cars That Go Boom" remains a beloved classic, frequently featured in movies, commercials, and playlists that pay homage to the era.

The TikTok Effect

In May 2020, social media users made “Cars With the Boom” go viral on TikTok. The audio racked up millions of videos, including from top creators.

Bunny D got a call from one of her nieces to tell her the news. She told the Washington Post “I have 29 nieces and nephews, so I was getting a couple of calls or texts a day. It’s just the cutest thing.” 

With the newfound attention and to capitalize on the TikTok viral effect, the compilation album, Cars that Go Boom, was released in 2020.

The Gallery

L'Trimm's contribution to hip-hop is undeniable. As one of the pioneering female rap duos of the 1980s, they brought a fresh and fun perspective to the genre, breaking through with their charismatic performances and catchy tunes. Their legacy lives on in the countless artists they have inspired and in the timeless appeal of their music. In a world where hip-hop continues to evolve and diversify, L'Trimm's story serves as a reminder of the genre's rich history and the artists who helped shape it.