About
Nicki Minaj, born Onika Tanya Maraj-Petty, is a Trinidadian-born rapper, singer, songwriter, actress, and businesswoman. She is one of the best-selling music artists of all time, with over 100 million records sold worldwide. Known for her colorful wigs, alter egos, and rapid-fire lyrical delivery, Minaj has broken numerous records and shattered glass ceilings in the male-dominated hip-hop industry. Her impact extends beyond music, influencing fashion, beauty trends, and popular culture.
Before Fame
Before dominating the charts, Minaj's path wasn't always glamorous. She played the clarinet in middle school, showcasing early artistic inclinations. Following an unsuccessful acting career start, she worked as a waitress at Red Lobster. Her tenure there was short-lived, as she was fired for being rude to customers. Undeterred, she transitioned to an office manager role on Wall Street, showcasing her adaptability and resilience before fully committing to her music career.
Career Highlights
Minaj's breakthrough came with her mixtapes, which garnered significant attention within the hip-hop community. Her 2010 debut album, Pink Friday, was a commercial triumph, achieving 4x platinum status and spawning seven singles that simultaneously charted on Billboard's Hot 100. This unprecedented feat solidified her position as a major force in music. Subsequent albums, including Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded (2012) and The Pinkprint (2014), continued her reign at the top of the charts. Beyond her solo work, Minaj has collaborated with numerous high-profile artists, including Britney Spears, further expanding her reach and influence. She also had a stint as a judge on American Idol.
Trivia
- She voiced Steffie in the animated film Ice Age: Continental Drift (2012).
- She played a supporting role in the romantic comedy The Other Woman (2014).
Family Life
Nicki Minaj has three brothers named Micaiah, Brandon, and Jelani, and a sister named Ming. Her mother, Carol, is a gospel singer, and her father, Robert, worked for American Express. Her relationship with producer Safaree Samuels ended in 2014. She then dated rappers Meek Mill and Nas. In 2019, she married Kenneth Petty. On September 30, 2020, she gave birth to her first child, a son whom she affectionately refers to as Papa Bear. Her younger sister is mingluanli.
