When Eve came into the game, she was a part of the female takeover of hip hop. She came right on the heels of Foxy Brown and Lil' Kim. Despite being the newest in the trio, she was the one setting the records. Her album sales were unheard of for a female artist. Each year, Eve released an album.
By 2002, Eve had released her third studio album and she was one of the hottest rappers in the game. Because of her popularity, everyone wanted a piece of her. With all of the money that she was making, Eve wanted to branch out. First, she created a clothing line, Fetish. Later, she would also star in a sitcom.
The UPN sitcom became so demanding that Eve could not take time off to create another album. Her show was quickly becoming a hit. During the summer of 2006, the sitcom was cancelled and Eve had all of the time in the world. Quickly, she began working on a new album.
Set for a 2007 release, Eve's album was pushed back at every release date. Now, the year is 2010 and Eve is still working on the same album. Had she made the comeback in 2007, Eve would have been the top female rapper in the game again. However, because her label could never feel safe releasing her album, Eve remained on the waiting list. Now, she will have to battle with Nicki Minaj to become the top female in rap music. But, in Eve's opinion, there is no competition.
At this point in her career, Eve feels that all she can do is sit back and focus on herself. She feels that she will mess up if she is constantly looking over her shoulder at Nicki Minaj.