Despite swirling controversies surrounding BTS member Suga, fans of the global K-pop sensation received uplifting news as the music video for “Idol” featuring Nicki Minaj reached a significant milestone. The track, which united two powerhouse names in music, recently surpassed 100 million views on YouTube, marking another remarkable achievement for both BTS and Nicki Minaj.
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The Unique Collaboration: BTS x Nicki Minaj
Released in 2018 as part of BTS’s Love Yourself: Answer album, “Idol” was already a hit upon its debut. However, the collaboration with Nicki Minaj elevated the song to international acclaim. Known for her sharp rap verses and vibrant energy, Nicki Minaj added a unique flair to the track, blending her signature style with BTS’s dynamic performance.
Fans were initially surprised and thrilled when the collaboration was announced. Nicki Minaj’s involvement brought an extra layer of excitement to “Idol”, as it combined the worlds of K-pop and US rap. The decision to collaborate with a global rap icon like Nicki was seen as a bold move by BTS, further cementing their position as global trendsetters.
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Mixed Reception and the Dual MV Strategy
When the main “Idol” music video was released, it featured no trace of Nicki Minaj’s voice or visuals, which puzzled many fans who were eagerly awaiting her appearance. It wasn’t until a second version of the MV, featuring Nicki’s verse, was released that fans could fully experience the collaboration.
However, the delayed release of Nicki Minaj’s version seemed to dilute its impact. By the time the secondary video was unveiled, much of the promotional focus had already shifted to the original version of “Idol”, which has since amassed over 674 million views as of 2024. In contrast, the version featuring Nicki Minaj took significantly longer to cross the 100 million view milestone, a rare case for artists of such stature.
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A Significant Achievement Despite Challenges
Though not an instant hit compared to BTS’s usual standards, the Nicki Minaj version of “Idol” remains a significant chapter in the group’s illustrious career. It showcased their ability to transcend musical boundaries and collaborate with Western artists at the top of their game.
For Nicki Minaj, the collaboration highlighted her versatility and willingness to explore new genres. Despite being primarily known as a rap queen in the US and UK music industries, Nicki seamlessly integrated her style into BTS’s high-energy track, winning the admiration of ARMYs worldwide.
Achievements to Date: A Look Back from 2024
Fast forward to 2024, “Idol” featuring Nicki Minaj has solidified its place as a notable milestone in BTS’s discography. The collaborative MV’s crossing of 100 million views is a testament to its lasting appeal, even years after its release. Meanwhile, the original version of “Idol” continues to climb, nearing the 700 million view mark on YouTube.
Additionally, BTS remains a force to be reckoned with, holding several records on YouTube, Spotify, and Billboard. Nicki Minaj, too, continues to dominate the charts with her genre-defying collaborations and solo hits, maintaining her legacy as one of the greatest rappers of all time.
Fan Reactions: A Blend of Nostalgia and Hope
Fans of both BTS and Nicki Minaj look back on “Idol” as a cultural moment that bridged the gap between K-pop and Western rap. Many expressed hope for another collaboration between the two in the future. A fan tweeted, “Idol was iconic, and seeing Nicki and BTS together was a dream come true. We need more of this energy in the future!”
The collaboration also paved the way for other global partnerships in the music industry, inspiring K-pop groups and Western artists to explore new possibilities.
The Legacy of “Idol” and What Lies Ahead
While “Idol” featuring Nicki Minaj may not have achieved the same immediate success as other BTS collaborations, it remains a memorable moment that underscored the group’s global ambitions. BTS and Nicki Minaj demonstrated how two seemingly different genres could come together to create something unique and impactful.
As of 2024, both BTS and Nicki Minaj continue to thrive. BTS has expanded their discography with groundbreaking albums and solo projects, while Nicki Minaj has made waves with her upcoming album Pink Friday 3 and collaborations with other global superstars. Fans remain optimistic that this dynamic duo will reunite for future projects, delivering yet another masterpiece that transcends cultural and musical boundaries.
For now, “Idol” serves as a shining example of the power of collaboration in breaking barriers and creating timeless art. Whether through music, visuals, or cultural exchange, BTS and Nicki Minaj have proven that their combined influence knows no limits.
