Who is Nicki Minaj?
Quick answer
Nicki Minaj (43) is a Trinidadian-born American rapper, singer and songwriter, one of the best-selling female rappers of all time. Born Onika Tanya Maraj in Port of Spain, Trinidad, she grew up in Queens, New York, and became famous with Young Money and her 2010 debut album Pink Friday.
Key facts
- Real name
- Onika Tanya Maraj-Petty
- Born
- December 8, 1982, Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago
- Label
- Young Money / Republic Records
- Spouse
- Kenneth Petty (married 2019)
- Fans are called
- The Barbz
Career highlights
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 2007–2009 | Mixtapes in New York; signs with Lil Wayne’s Young Money |
| 2010 | Show-stealing verse on Kanye West’s “Monster”; debut album Pink Friday |
| 2011 | “Super Bass” becomes a worldwide hit |
| 2012 | Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded, with “Starships” |
| 2014 | The Pinkprint, with “Anaconda” |
| 2018 | Queen |
| 2020 | First No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 with “Say So” (Doja Cat remix) and “Trollz” |
| 2023 | Pink Friday 2 debuts at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 |
She’s known for fast, playful verses, character voices like “Roman Zolanski,” bold fashion, and helping open the door for a new generation of female rappers. She has the most Billboard Hot 100 entries of any female rapper.
Personal life
Minaj married Kenneth Petty in 2019, and they have a son, born in 2020. Her family moved from Trinidad to Queens when she was young, and she studied drama at the LaGuardia High School of performing arts in New York.
What’s she doing in 2026?
Minaj had hinted at a new album in early 2026, but later said she wouldn’t release it, and in October 2026 she gave no release plans. She has also drawn headlines for political comments on social media, including public support for President Trump. Her plans can change quickly, so check her official channels for the latest.
Albums
- Pink Friday (2010)
- Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded (2012)
- The Pinkprint (2014)
- Queen (2018)
- Pink Friday 2 (2023)
For other famous people explained, see who Hasan Piker is and who Sophia Bush is.
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