Long before Cardi B became the global rap icon we know today, she had her share of relationships that helped shape her journey. Her path to love with Offset, though full of passion and turbulence, was preceded by a number of romances that fans often overlook. Here’s an inside look at the men who played a role in Cardi B’s life before her headline-grabbing marriage.
Here's ads banner inside a post
The Early Years: A Hustler’s Love
During her early 20s, Cardi B was still finding her footing as a dancer and aspiring artist in New York City. Around this time, she was in a long-term relationship with a man she frequently referred to as “Tommy” on social media. This relationship became a central topic during the early seasons of Love & Hip Hop: New York when Cardi B joined the show in 2015.
Tommy was serving time in prison during much of their relationship, which Cardi openly discussed on the reality show. She admitted to struggling with the dynamic of dating someone incarcerated, even as she remained loyal for years. However, as her career began to soar, Cardi realized the relationship was holding her back, and the two eventually parted ways.
A Complicated Fling: DJ Self
During her time on Love & Hip Hop: New York, Cardi B’s flirtation with DJ Self, a prominent figure in the hip-hop scene, became a storyline. Self was portrayed as someone who didn’t take Cardi’s ambitions seriously, prioritizing other women and his career over their budding connection. Cardi later expressed that the situation taught her valuable lessons about self-worth and not settling for less than she deserved.
Here's ads banner inside a post
Brief but Memorable: King Yella Controversy
In 2016, rapper King Yella claimed to have had a fling with Cardi B before her relationship with Offset. He even released a song titled Cardi B Truth and shared alleged screenshots of their conversations. Cardi, however, vehemently denied the claims and clapped back on social media, calling him out for trying to gain clout by using her name.
The drama quickly fizzled out, but it highlighted the growing attention on Cardi’s personal life as her fame skyrocketed.
Here's ads banner inside a post
A Steady Partnership: Producer Swift
Another notable figure in Cardi B’s dating history is Swift, her former collaborator and producer. The two reportedly began a romantic relationship while working together on her early music projects. However, the romance was short-lived, with Cardi accusing Swift of being dishonest and unfaithful. Despite their split, the experience added to Cardi’s narrative of resilience and independence.
The Love of Her Life: Offset
By 2017, Cardi B’s relationship with Offset became the center of attention. Their whirlwind romance was a mix of grand gestures and public drama. Offset proposed on stage during a live performance in October 2017, and the two secretly tied the knot shortly after. Despite their love, the relationship has been marked by ups and downs, including allegations of infidelity and public spats.
However, Cardi and Offset have consistently shown their commitment to each other, welcoming their first child, Kulture Kiari Cephus, in 2018, and later their second child in 2021. Their love story is one of resilience, showing that even amidst challenges, they find ways to grow together.
Lessons Learned from Cardi B’s Romantic Journey
From her early relationships to her current marriage, Cardi B’s love life is a testament to her evolution as a person and artist. Each chapter taught her lessons about loyalty, self-respect, and the importance of choosing a partner who truly supports her dreams.
While her romance with Offset has its fair share of turbulence, Cardi has shown that she values love, family, and growth above all else. Her journey reminds fans that even global superstars face challenges in their personal lives—and that love, in all its forms, is a process of learning and resilience.
