Nicki Minaj, born Onika Tanya Maraj-Petty on December 8, 1982, in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, is a Trinidadian-American rapper, singer, and songwriter. Often hailed as the “Queen of Rap,” she is renowned for her dynamic flow, sharp lyrics, and vibrant persona. Minaj has significantly influenced the resurgence of female rap in mainstream music since the 2010s.
Early Life and Background
Minaj spent her early years in Saint James, Trinidad and Tobago, before relocating to Queens, New York, at the age of five. She attended Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts, focusing on visual and performing arts. Before her music career, she worked various jobs, including as a waitress and office manager, often facing challenges that fueled her drive for success.
Music Career
Minaj’s music career began with a series of mixtapes between 2007 and 2009, leading to her debut studio album, Pink Friday, in 2010. The album topped the US Billboard 200 and featured the hit single “Super Bass.” She continued her success with albums like Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded (2012), The Pinkprint (2014), Queen (2018), and Pink Friday 2 (2023). Her work has earned her numerous accolades, including multiple Billboard Music Awards and MTV Video Music Awards.
Net Worth and Business Ventures
As of 2025, Nicki Minaj’s net worth is estimated at approximately $190.5 million, making her the wealthiest female rapper. Her income stems from her music, brand endorsements, and business ventures, including her Myx Fusions Moscato beverage line and various fashion and beauty collaborations.
Personal Life
In 2019, Minaj married Kenneth Petty, and the couple welcomed their son, affectionately known as “Papa Bear,” in September 2020. She often shares glimpses of her family life on social media, expressing her joy in motherhood.
Legacy and Influence
Nicki Minaj has sold over 100 million records worldwide, solidifying her status as one of the best-selling music artists. Her influence extends beyond music into fashion and pop culture, inspiring a new generation of artists. In 2023, Billboard and Vibe ranked her as the greatest female rapper of all time.
Nicki Minaj’s journey from a young girl in Trinidad to a global music icon exemplifies her resilience, talent, and impact on the entertainment industry.
(FAQs) about Nicki Minaj:
1. What is Nicki Minaj’s real name?
Nicki Minaj’s real name is Onika Tanya Maraj-Petty.
2. When and where was Nicki Minaj born?
She was born on December 8, 1982, in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago.
3. How old is Nicki Minaj?
As of 2025, Nicki Minaj is 42 years old.
4. Is Nicki Minaj married?
Yes, she is married to Kenneth Petty. The couple tied the knot in October 2019.
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5. Does Nicki Minaj have children?
Yes, Nicki Minaj has a son, affectionately referred to as “Papa Bear”, born in September 2020.
6. What is Nicki Minaj’s net worth?
As of 2025, her estimated net worth is around $190.5 million, making her the richest female rapper.
7. What was Nicki Minaj’s debut album?
Her debut studio album was “Pink Friday”, released in 2010.
8. What are Nicki Minaj’s most popular songs?
Some of her biggest hits include:
- “Super Bass”
- “Anaconda”
- “Starships”
- “Moment 4 Life”
- “Only”
- “Chun-Li”
9. Has Nicki Minaj won any major awards?
Yes, she has won numerous awards, including:
- American Music Awards
- BET Awards
- Billboard Music Awards
- MTV Video Music Awards
10. What is Nicki Minaj known for?
She is known for her versatile rap style, bold fashion, alter egos, and her role in reshaping the image of women in hip-hop.
11. Has Nicki Minaj acted in movies or TV?
Yes, she has appeared in films like “The Other Woman” (2014) and “Barbershop: The Next Cut” (2016), and she voiced a character in “Ice Age: Continental Drift” (2012).
12. What are Nicki Minaj’s fanbase called?
Her fans are called the “Barbz”, short for Barbies, inspired by her early Barbie-like image.
13. Is Nicki Minaj active on social media?
Yes, she is very active on platforms like Instagram (@nickiminaj) and X (formerly Twitter) (@NICKIMINAJ), where she interacts frequently with fans.
14. What businesses does Nicki Minaj own or endorse?
She has her own Moscato brand Myx Fusions, and she’s collaborated with brands in fashion, makeup, and fragrance.
15. Is Nicki Minaj still making music?
Yes! She continues to release music and perform. Her latest album, “Pink Friday 2”, was released in 2023, and she remains a major figure in hip-hop.