MORGAN PARK — Rapper Elizabeth "Lizzie G" Elie is one of the few hip-hop artists who wouldn't have to clean up any of her songs for the radio.
A lifelong Morgan Park resident, Lizzie G performs exclusively clean songs — without curse words or profanity. It's an approach that some Chicago-area DJs have told her could be keeping her from a wider audience.
But Lizzie G, 25, isn't about to change. Instead, she's taking her positive message to schools in Chicago and beyond, teaching students about music and culture through the medium she first began toying with at age 11.
"I just think that if the radio is not going to support it, let me keep grinding," Lizzie G said Friday. "All of my songs have no profanity. I'm a leader to these youth."
Her latest album, "Level Up" debuted in March and includes the song "No Bully Zone." The track encourages students to stand up to school bullying by reporting what they see. And besides performing her songs, she also works with students to create their own music in after-school programs and works as a motivational speaker.
"I want these kids saying, 'Oh yeah, Lizzie G was the artist that motivated me,'" said Lizzie G, a product of Morgan Park's Clissold Elementary School.
She became passionate about hip hop as a student at Curie High School in Archer Heights. Her song "Crank Dat Finess" featured lyrics that included instructions for accompanying dance moves. It remains her most requested song.
She went on to graduate from Northern Illinois University in 2012 and received a master's degree in marketing and communications from Roosevelt University in 2015. Last year, she launched Lizzie G Entertainment.
"Over the years, I have definitely matured and expanded my brand," said Lizzie G, whose high-pitched laugh brings a smile to all who hear it.
A product of Haitian parents, Lizzie G has two older sisters and often travels to Haiti for humanitarian efforts. In December, she arrived with a luggage bag full of toiletries and other donations.
Meanwhile, she also works with Haitian producers to create a unique sound. And in addition to the songs for schools, Lizzie G is hoping her song "Everyday My Birthday" also takes off.
This song from the new 18-track album is quickly becoming a club favorite as DJs look to recognize those within the audience celebrating birthdays.
Meanwhile, Lizzie G said she has no plans to move out of Morgan Park. She said the neighborhood continues to have a positive impact on both her work as a musician and as an educator.
"I like my neighborhood. No, I love it. It's low-key," she said.
