“My goal the whole time has been for people to see me as a stand-alone artist. I came out with Young Money, the biggest hip-hop label in the world at the time. And then it was, 'How do I branch away from Lil Wayne?'”

Trinidadian rapper, singer, and songwriter

Nicki Minaj is a Trinidadian rapper, singer, and songwriter known for her sharp flow, playful wordplay, and wide musical range. She is one of the most prominent figures in contemporary rap. She is known for her alter egos and for a style that moves between hard-edged rap and pop-leaning songs. Her work is often associated with the rise of female rap in the mainstream, and her writing and delivery have made her a highly visible presence in popular music.