Nicki Minaj

Onika Tanya Maraj-Petty (née Maraj; born December 8, 1982), known professionally as Nicki Minaj (/ˈnɪki mɪˈnɑːʒ/ NIK-ee min-AHZH), is a Trinidadian-born rapper and singer based in the United States. Often hailed as the "Queen of Rap," she is celebrated for her musical versatility, animated rap flow, and distinct alter egos. Minaj first gained recognition with the release of three mixtapes between 2007 and 2009.

Minaj's debut album, *Pink Friday* (2010), topped the US Billboard 200 chart. The single "Super Bass" reached number three on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and was later certified diamond by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). Her follow-up album, *Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded* (2012), explored dance-pop, topped the Billboard 200, and produced the international top-ten single "Starships." In 2014, her collaboration "Bang Bang" with Ariana Grande and Jessie J became the first female collaboration to be certified diamond. Her next album, *The Pinkprint* (2014), marked a return to her hip hop roots, with the second single "Anaconda" peaking at number two on the Hot 100. Minaj achieved her first two US number-one singles in 2020 with the collaborations "Say So" with Doja Cat and "Trollz" with 6ix9ine. In 2022, she earned her first solo number-one on the Hot 100 with "Super Freaky Girl," the lead single from her fifth album, *Pink Friday 2* (2023), which also debuted atop the Billboard 200. To promote the album, Minaj embarked on the Pink Friday 2 World Tour in 2024, which became the highest-grossing concert tour by a female rapper.

Nicki Minaj was born in Trinidad and Tobago but moved to Queens, New York, at the age of five. Her early life was marked by financial struggles and family turmoil, including her father's struggle with addiction and her mother's efforts to provide a stable home. Despite these challenges, Minaj excelled academically and displayed a passion for the arts from a young age. She attended LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts, a prestigious school known for nurturing artistic talent. At LaGuardia, Minaj focused on acting, which laid the foundation for her dynamic performance style in her music career. Her early exposure to the performing arts and her determination to rise above her circumstances played a crucial role in shaping her artistic identity.

Nicki Minaj's career began in the mid-2000s when she released a series of mixtapes that caught the attention of the music industry. Her breakthrough came with the mixtape "Beam Me Up Scotty" in 2009, which led to her signing with Lil Wayne's Young Money Entertainment. Her debut album, "Pink Friday," released in 2010, was a commercial success, debuting at number two on the Billboard 200 and later achieving multi-platinum status. The album included hit singles like "Your Love," "Moment 4 Life," and "Super Bass," the latter becoming a global sensation.

Minaj's subsequent albums, "Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded" (2012), "The Pinkprint" (2014), and "Queen" (2018), solidified her position in the music industry. She is known for her versatility, seamlessly blending rap, pop, and R&B. Her collaborations with artists such as Drake, Lil Wayne, Beyoncé, Ariana Grande, and Kanye West have further expanded her influence. In addition to her music career, Minaj has ventured into acting, appearing in films like "The Other Woman" (2014) and "Barbershop: The Next Cut" (2016). She has also served as a judge on the reality TV show "American Idol," showcasing her multifaceted talent.

Nicki Minaj's legacy is marked by her impact on the music industry and pop culture. She has been a trailblazer for female rappers, breaking records and challenging the norms of the genre. Minaj's bold persona and willingness to address social issues in her music have made her a voice for empowerment and self-expression. She has been credited with paving the way for a new generation of female artists, influencing the likes of Cardi B, Megan Thee Stallion, and Doja Cat.

Looking to the future, Minaj continues to be a dominant force in music and entertainment. She has hinted at new music and projects, indicating that her creative journey is far from over. Minaj's ability to reinvent herself and stay relevant in an ever-changing industry suggests that her influence will endure for years to come. Her contributions to fashion, music, and culture have left an indelible mark, ensuring her place in the pantheon of hip-hop legends.

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