Grammy-winning artist and multifaceted performer Doja Cat has reached a historic milestone, surpassing Cardi B to become the second highest-selling female rapper in history. According to the latest Billboard rankings, this achievement highlights Doja Cat’s remarkable ascent in the music industry and cements her as a force to be reckoned with.
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Nicki Minaj: The Unrivaled Queen
Despite Doja Cat’s monumental rise, Nicki Minaj continues to reign supreme as the highest-selling female rapper both in the United States and globally. Nicki’s prolific career, adorned with countless hits, chart-topping albums, and iconic collaborations, has solidified her position as the queen of rap. Her enduring influence on the genre and music industry at large remains unmatched, inspiring generations of artists who follow in her footsteps.
Cardi B’s Shift in Rankings
Cardi B, known for her record-breaking debut album Invasion of Privacy and a string of global hits, now ranks fourth in U.S. sales, trailing behind Nicki Minaj, Doja Cat, and Megan Thee Stallion. However, on the global stage, Cardi B maintains the third spot, reflecting her wide-reaching influence and commercial success beyond the United States.
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The Factors Behind Doja Cat’s Rise
Doja Cat’s journey to the top has been defined by her genre-blurring artistry, magnetic stage presence, and savvy use of social media to connect with fans. Her ability to merge rap, pop, and R&B has allowed her to craft a sound that appeals to a diverse audience. Hits like “Say So,” “Kiss Me More,” and “Paint the Town Red” have dominated global charts, earning her multiple awards and critical acclaim.
Moreover, Doja’s innovative approach to music videos and her willingness to experiment with bold and unconventional aesthetics have set her apart from her peers, making her one of the most talked-about artists of her generation.
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Billboard’s Sales Rankings and Industry Influence
Billboard’s rankings reflect not only sales figures but also performance on the Hot 100 and Billboard 200 charts. This comprehensive approach underscores the dominance of these female rappers in the competitive landscape of the music industry.
The rankings also highlight the shifting dynamics within the rap genre, where a new wave of female artists, including Megan Thee Stallion, have carved out significant spaces for themselves. Megan, whose hits like “Savage” and “WAP” have become cultural phenomena, remains a prominent figure in the rankings.
The Broader Context of Music’s Biggest Stars
While female rappers like Nicki Minaj, Doja Cat, Cardi B, and Megan Thee Stallion dominate the rap scene, Billboard’s analysis extends beyond rap, recognizing the biggest artists of the 21st century across all genres.
Taylor Swift has been crowned the biggest artist of the century, an accolade that reflects her unparalleled success, influence, and ability to continuously evolve her artistry. With chart-topping albums like 1989, Reputation, and Midnights, Taylor has become a global cultural icon.
In the rap category, Canadian artist Drake stands as the biggest rapper of the 21st century. Known for his consistent output of hits and his ability to transcend genre boundaries, Drake’s impact on music and pop culture remains indisputable.
Among groups, Maroon 5 has emerged as the biggest group of the century, thanks to their enduring popularity and chart-topping hits like “Sugar” and “Girls Like You.” Meanwhile, Destiny’s Child holds the title of the biggest girl group of the 21st century, a testament to their groundbreaking contributions to music and their lasting legacy.
A Testament to Female Empowerment in Rap
The success of female rappers like Doja Cat, Cardi B, Nicki Minaj, and Megan Thee Stallion reflects a broader shift in the music industry, where women in rap are not only breaking barriers but also setting new standards for success. From commanding global charts to influencing fashion, culture, and social movements, these artists have proven that the rap genre is no longer a male-dominated space.
Looking Ahead
As the music industry continues to evolve, the accomplishments of these female rappers signal an exciting future for the genre. With Doja Cat’s recent milestone, the stage is set for even more groundbreaking achievements and creative exploration in the years to come.
Nicki Minaj’s enduring legacy, Cardi B’s global appeal, Megan Thee Stallion’s innovative artistry, and Doja Cat’s meteoric rise represent the power and resilience of women in rap. These artists continue to inspire fans worldwide, proving that the sky is the limit for female rap in the 21st century.
