Women’s History Month: Top 5 Video Vixens We Miss + Where Are They Now

In honor of Women’s History Month, SOHH is paying tribute to the women who played a significant role in hip-hop history as video vixens. During this time, it is essential to support women’s empowerment and recognize the accomplishments of past trailblazers who paved the way for future generations. Here are the top five video vixens we miss and where they are now.

Top 5 O.G. Video Vixens

The term “video vixen” was first used in the 1990s to describe women who appeared in music videos, often as love interests or background dancers. Despite the criticisms they faced, video vixens showed strength, resilience, and creativity in their roles. 

Each O.G. challenged societal norms and broke barriers by expressing themselves through their art. Here are the top five video vixens that played a significant role in the rise of hip-hop as a cultural phenomenon and where are they now:

Superhead

Real name Karrine Steffans was one of the most controversial video vixens of her time. Her rise to fame began when she appeared in music videos for artists such as Jay-Z and R. Kelly. 

The St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands native was known for her on-screen charisma and daring looks.

In fact, Superhead gained mass attention after she donned a risqué ensemble, involving pasties in Mystikal’s “Danger (Been So Long)” music video featuring Nivea. She was one of the first girls to take more risks with her looks, which also helped skyrocket her career.

Melyssa Ford

Ms. Ford was another prominent figure in the video vixen world. She appeared in dozens of videos and became a fan favorite for her stunning looks and magnetic personality. 

Her breakthrough came in 1997 when she appeared in the video for Jay-Z’s hit single “Big Pimpin’.” The video, which was directed by Hype Williams, featured Ford in a bikini and helped to launch her career.

Following her success in music videos, Ford transitioned into acting, appearing in several television shows and movies. The Canadian native also had a recurring role on the television series Entourage and appeared in films such as Three Can Play That Game.

In addition to her modeling and acting career, Ford has also worked as a television host and personality. She hosted the reality TV series I Married a Baller and co-hosted the talk show Blood Sweat and Heels.

Buffy The Body

Real name Buffie Carruth, was one of the most recognizable video vixens of her time. She became famous for her curvy figure and appeared in numerous videos and magazines. Buffy began her career as a stripper and later realized that her curvy figure and captivating personality could take her career further. 

In 2006, the Ohio-bred entrepreneur’s popularity continued to grow, and she eventually landed her first major acting role in the movie “ATL. She also appeared in several music videos for artists such as Tony Yayo and Twista.

Her biggest break came in 2008 when she was featured in the music video for “I’m So Hood” by DJ Khaled. The video went viral, and Buffy became a household name overnight. She was soon featured in magazines such as Black Men Magazine and King Magazine, and her career skyrocketed.

K.D. Aubert

Real name Karen Denise Aubert was known for her exotic looks and striking features. Fans may remember her from Fabolous’ “So Into You” music video featuring Tamia. She also appeared in videos for DMX, Usher, and Busta Rhymes.

KD was also another video vixen who successfully transitioned to acting. She landed roles in movies such as Friday After Next, where she plays Donna, Ice Cube’s (Craig) love interest. 

Her performance in the movie was well-received, and she soon began receiving offers for other acting roles, including Soul Plane, Silent No More, and The Scorpion King.

Leshontae Heckard 

This O.G. was a rising star in the video vixen world before transitioning to acting. She appeared in videos for Lil Wayne, T.I., and Nelly, among others, before making the leap to the big screen. 

Leshontae Heckard began her career as a dancer and model in her hometown of Houston, Texas. She quickly made a name for herself with her stunning looks and natural talent, catching the attention of music video directors and producers. She was cast as the lead girl in Lil Wayne’s music video for “How to Love,” which went viral and brought the attention of millions of fans worldwide.

However, OG fans may mostly remember Busta Rhymes and Mariah Carey’s music video for “I Know What You Want.” Since then, Heckard has worked with a long list of top artists, including Drake, Chris Brown, and Future.

Honorable Mention: Gloria Velez

Velez was one of the first Latina video vixens to gain widespread recognition. She appeared in videos for some of the biggest names in hip-hop and was known for her fierce personality and outspoken nature. 

In the late 1990s, Velez gained attention for her appearances in hip-hop music videos. She quickly became known as one of the most popular and sought-after video vixens in the industry. Her striking looks and curvaceous figure made her a favorite among music video directors and rappers alike.

Some of Velez’s most memorable appearances include her role in the music video for Jay-Z’s “Big Pimpin’.” She also appeared in videos for artists such as DMX, Ja Rule, and Sisqo.

Where Are They Now?

Today, many of these women have moved on to other endeavors.

Superhead, for example, has become a successful writer and media personality, appearing on talk shows and news programs to discuss topics ranging from politics to relationships. She also now goes by her real name Elisabeth Ovesen. 

Melyssa Ford, meanwhile, has largely stepped away from the spotlight and is now a real estate agent. In 2018, she was involved in a serious car accident that left her with a fractured skull and a concussion. She has since opened up about her struggle with depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a result of the accident. 

Ford also uses her platform to raise awareness for traumatic brain injuries and to advocate for women’s health.

Buffy the Body has become a fitness coach, using her platform to encourage other women to embrace a healthy lifestyle, and owns an online boutique. Gloria Velez has also moved on from the music industry and is now a fashion designer. 

Lastly, Leshontae and KD Aubert have continued to act and model, building on their early successes in the entertainment industry.