Outside of her multi-faceted rap career and business ventures, Nicki Minaj is notoriously known for her candid and courageous character. Its helped her maneuver through the industry, create a memorable image, and remain a topic of discussion. Throughout her career she always recognized this strength in her personality and used it to her advantage. Let’s take a look back over the past two decades where she encourages others to do the same:
1.) “It’s a necessity to be unapologetic about asking for how much money you deserve…if you know you’re great at what you do, don’t ever be ashamed to ask for the top dollar in your field.”
Nicki Minaj sat down with TIME in 2017 as one of the 100 Most Influential People and briefly discussed her come-up, early career moves, goals and unapologetic behavior. As a strong mental sticker, Nicki reminded women to ask and receive the financial worth of their work. She also details a moment in her early career where she increased her prices for club appearances. Minaj learned the higher 6 figures her peers were receiving, then required more from promoters. As she should.
2.) “To all my Barbiez out there, you date George Washington and Benjamin Franklin [and Abraham Lincoln], you’ll be better off in life.”
In this 2009 Honey Mag Interview, Minaj gave out dating advice. She encouraged women to court economic power and suggested dead presidents as the suitors. During press moments and live performances, Nicki consistently vocalized the importance of women independence at every stance in society. She proposes higher education as a means to get there since she regrets never earning a college degree.
3.) “The goal is to not want their acceptance. The goal is to do you and they’ll come around.”
Complex magazine featured the Harajuku Barbie in 2012 on the 10th anniversary cover. Nicki reminded folks to uphold their identity to the world. Oftentimes, people try to label and categorize others based on their limited perception. But Minaj refuses to accept that restriction. The world will catch up, so do not wait to be accepted. Do YOU!
4.) “Is that wrong? For wanting more for myself? Wanting people to treat me with respect? But you know what, next time they know better. But had I accepted the pickle juice, I would be drinking pickle juice right now.“
The infamous rant that cemented Nicki as an advocate for fair and equal treatment of women was captured on her first MTV documentary, My Time Now. In this epic clip, at the beginning of the 2010s, Minaj indicated the different reception between men and women exerting assertive behavior. She acknowledged this attitude used to conduct business works well for men. It is admired and respected. Whereas for the opposite sex, it sends the message of a difficult woman, or in her words, “a bitch”.
Whether you love or hate the self-crowned Queen of Rap, she made American history with her self-written lyrics, loud and provocative image, as well as an outspoken demeanor. As we celebrate an upcoming surprise this week from a decade-dominated MC, we look back and recognize the moments she encouraged others to step into their power.
Another Pink Friday coming soon!!
Bianca Green 