Nicki Minaj has once again cemented her place in music history, making an indelible mark as the first female rapper to achieve multiple Diamond-certified singles. This monumental achievement comes with the certification of her 2012 global hit “Starships,” which has now sold over 10 million units in the United States, a feat awarded by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). Minaj’s accomplishment makes her the best-selling female rapper of all time, solidifying her legacy in the music industry for years to come.
Here's ads banner inside a post
The Rise of “Starships” and Nicki Minaj’s Transition to Pop
“Starships” is more than just a song—it’s a cultural milestone. Released in 2012, the track marked a significant shift in Nicki Minaj’s career, as she ventured into new musical territories, fusing rap with pop and EDM influences. The song became one of the defining tracks of the era, dominating charts and airwaves across the globe. Its success not only helped propel Minaj to greater fame but also set a new trend in the rap genre, with other artists beginning to explore the intersection of hip-hop and pop music.
Despite its commercial triumph, Nicki Minaj has been candid about her feelings toward the song over the years. In a 2020 interview, Minaj expressed her discomfort with “Starships,” revealing that she has often questioned her decision to release the track. “I hate ‘Starships,’ I mean ew, ‘Starships?’ I’m like, ‘Why did I do that?’ I really think that every time I hear it,” she admitted. This vulnerability in sharing her true feelings adds another layer to Minaj’s complex persona, reminding her fans that even the most successful artists can have mixed emotions about their work.
Here's ads banner inside a post
Yet, despite her personal reservations, “Starships” became a defining moment in her career, demonstrating Minaj’s versatility and her willingness to experiment with different musical genres. The song’s Diamond certification is a testament to the enduring popularity of the track and its impact on the pop culture landscape.
A Historic Moment for Nicki Minaj and Women in Hip-Hop
With the Diamond certification of “Starships,” Nicki Minaj joins an elite group of artists, as only a select few songs in the music industry achieve such a rare honor. In doing so, she not only makes history as the first female rapper with multiple Diamond singles but also solidifies her position at the forefront of the music industry. This achievement is a monumental step for women in hip-hop, a genre traditionally dominated by men. Minaj’s success has inspired countless aspiring female artists to follow in her footsteps, breaking barriers and proving that women can dominate the rap game just as effectively as their male counterparts.
Minaj’s Diamond certification for “Starships” now ties her with fellow rapper Cardi B for the most Diamond-certified singles by a female rapper in RIAA history, with both artists having three each. This marks a significant moment in the ongoing conversation about female representation in rap and the immense talent that women bring to the genre. Minaj’s achievements further demonstrate her status as a trailblazer in music, one whose influence continues to grow with each new milestone.
Here's ads banner inside a post
The Power of “Super Bass” and “Bang Bang”
While “Starships” is the latest addition to Nicki Minaj’s Diamond-certified collection, it is not her first. In 2021, Minaj’s 2011 hit “Super Bass” became her first Diamond-certified single. The song, which became a global anthem, is considered one of the most iconic tracks of the 2010s. With its infectious hook, catchy beat, and Minaj’s vibrant verses, “Super Bass” captured the hearts of millions of fans around the world, from casual listeners to fellow celebrities.
The song’s success was not just about its commercial performance. It became a cultural phenomenon, with countless fans—celebrity and non-celebrity alike—joining in on the fun. Celebrities like Taylor Swift and Selena Gomez famously performed “Super Bass” at events, helping propel the track into even greater mainstream popularity. Minaj has publicly acknowledged the role these stars played in the success of the song, expressing her gratitude when it earned Diamond certification. “This one was released before the streaming era, so millions of fans actually purchased the song. I’m so grateful for you guys. Sending love & blessings your way,” she wrote on Instagram, giving thanks to the fans who helped make “Super Bass” a cultural staple.
“Super Bass” continues to be one of Minaj’s most beloved tracks, both for its musical innovation and its role in solidifying her position as a global superstar. Its success paved the way for even greater achievements in Minaj’s career, from chart-topping albums to record-breaking tours.
In addition to “Starships” and “Super Bass,” Minaj’s collaboration with Ariana Grande and Jessie J on the track “Bang Bang” also earned Diamond certification. Released in 2014, “Bang Bang” was another major hit for Minaj, further showcasing her ability to dominate the charts and work across genres. Like “Super Bass,” “Bang Bang” became a mainstream anthem and was heavily featured in pop culture, further solidifying Minaj’s versatility and commercial reach. With three Diamond-certified singles under her belt, Minaj now stands as a historic figure in the music world, with her influence and legacy as a rap icon unparalleled.
Nicki Minaj’s Unmatched Influence and Legacy
As Nicki Minaj continues to break records and set new milestones, this latest achievement only adds to her unmatched legacy. Her influence on hip-hop and pop music is immeasurable, from her game-changing features to her chart-topping solo hits. Minaj’s unique blend of rap, pop, and even EDM has set her apart from her peers and has allowed her to carve out a distinctive place in the music world.
Beyond her musical prowess, Minaj has also become a cultural icon, known for her bold personality, unapologetic confidence, and fearless approach to self-expression. She has navigated the complexities of fame, consistently using her platform to address issues of race, gender, and identity. Minaj’s impact extends far beyond her music, as she has also influenced fashion, social media, and public perceptions of women in hip-hop.
With this new historic achievement, Minaj continues to inspire and lead by example. She has proven that hard work, creativity, and resilience can break down any barrier, and her achievements serve as a blueprint for future generations of artists.
A Lasting Legacy
As Minaj’s career continues to evolve, one thing is certain: her legacy is secured. With the Diamond certifications of “Starships,” “Super Bass,” and “Bang Bang,” Nicki Minaj has made history and shown that the Queen of Rap is not just a passing trend, but a force that has permanently reshaped the music industry. For her fans, her haters, and everyone in between, Nicki Minaj is an artist whose impact will echo for generations to come.
As we celebrate this incredible milestone, we also look forward to what the future holds for Nicki Minaj. With every record she shatters and every boundary she pushes, she proves that there are no limits to what she can achieve. Here’s to the Queen of Rap and the continued evolution of her remarkable career.
