Nicki Minaj celebrates another birthday as one of the few artists who managed to redraw the borders of modern hip-hop while building a persona that feels larger than the genre itself. Her rise was not a sudden explosion but a series of seismic moments.
Tracing her career through ten defining tracks reveals not just a catalog of hits, but a blueprint for reinvention. Each release marks a new chapter in her evolution, from razor-sharp lyricism to pop crossover dominance, and from cultural disruptor to enduring figure of influence.
“Super Bass” (2011)
“Super Bass” became the song that catapulted Nicki Minaj from rising rap star to global household name. What began as a bonus track evolved into a chart-topping phenomenon, fueled by its neon-bright hook and Nicki’s seamless blend of rap and melodic pop. With its vibrant energy, playful attitude, and instantly recognizable opening lines, the song opened doors to mainstream radio in a way few female rappers had achieved at the time. It marked the beginning of an era where Nicki proved she could dominate the charts without abandoning her lyrical chops, solidifying her place as a crossover titan.
“Monster” – Kanye West ft. Nicki Minaj (2010)
Nicki Minaj’s verse on “Monster” became a cultural landmark, widely regarded as one of the most electrifying guest features in rap history. In just over a minute, she shape-shifted through multiple voices, cadences, and personas — showcasing theatrical flair while effortlessly outperforming some of the industry’s biggest names. The verse turned her from a promising newcomer into a force impossible to ignore, signaling the arrival of a rapper capable of rewriting the rules of performance, intensity, and creative bravado. It remains one of the clearest examples of her raw talent and fearless innovation.
“Roman’s Revenge” (2010)
“Roman’s Revenge” marked the true unleashing of Roman Zolanski, Nicki’s ferocious alter ego, and cemented her reputation for pushing the boundaries of rap performance. The track, filled with aggressive flows and sharp-edged delivery, showcased the theatricality that would become one of her signatures. It wasn’t just a song — it was a character study, a moment where she demonstrated that she could construct entire worlds within her music. The intensity, the rapid-fire bars, and the unapologetic creativity turned the track into a cult favorite and a defining moment in her early career.
“Starships” (2012)
With “Starships,” Nicki Minaj blasted into global pop superstardom, embracing a high-energy dance sound that introduced her to audiences far beyond hip-hop. The song became an international hit, dominating club playlists, festival stages, and radio rotations in dozens of countries. Its explosive production and joyful escapism highlighted her ability to adapt to any sonic landscape without losing her charismatic edge. “Starships” also marked a cultural turning point: Nicki wasn’t just a rapper anymore — she was a worldwide phenomenon with multi-genre reach and unmatched star power.
“Anaconda” (2014)
A provocative, high-impact hit, “Anaconda” became more than just a song — it was a viral event that reshaped online culture. From its bold sampling of Sir Mix-a-Lot to its unforgettable music video that shattered YouTube records, the track showcased Nicki’s mastery of spectacle and her ability to spark global conversation. Through humor, confidence, and body-positive themes, she created a pop-rap moment that was both playful and subversive. “Anaconda” remains one of her most iconic releases, representing her talent for blending commentary with entertainment at full volume.
Nicki Minaj performs onstage during iHeartRadio Power 96.1’s Jingle Ball 2023. (Source: Derek White/Getty Images for iHeartRadio)
“Beez in the Trap” (2012)
“Beez in the Trap” returned Nicki to her gritty, minimalist hip-hop roots, offering a cold, hypnotic backdrop for one of her most controlled and rhythmic performances. The track became a staple in clubs and among rap fans who appreciated her ability to shift seamlessly between pop superstardom and raw street sensibilities. Her calm yet cutting delivery demonstrated technical mastery and reasserted her credibility in the rap world. It’s a reminder that no matter how far she ventures into pop, Nicki’s foundation remains firmly grounded in sharp, clever lyricism.
“Moment 4 Life” ft. Drake (2010)
A celebration wrapped in gratitude, “Moment 4 Life” captures Nicki Minaj at the turning point where her dreams began to materialize into a long-lasting legacy. The track blends triumphant production with introspective lyrics that reflect her journey from underground mixtapes to mainstream acclaim. Her chemistry with Drake adds emotional resonance, turning the song into an anthem of achievement and transformation. It stands as one of her most uplifting, reflective pieces — a snapshot of an artist recognizing the magnitude of everything she’s built.
“Chun-Li” (2018)
“Chun-Li” arrived at a crucial moment in Nicki’s career, reaffirming her position in a competitive rap landscape. The track’s martial-arts–inspired imagery, fierce confidence, and sharp flows created a powerful statement of resilience. Without relying on heavy features or big pop hooks, Nicki crafted a song that centered her skill, attitude, and unshakable presence. “Chun-Li” marked her return to a more aggressive sound, proving that even amid industry noise, she could silence everything with sheer lyrical force.
“Only” ft. Drake, Lil Wayne & Chris Brown (2014)
Dark, bold, and provocative, “Only” presents Nicki Minaj at her most unfiltered. Surrounded by her Young Money collaborators, she delivers one of her sharpest verses — confident, cutting, and impossible to ignore. The track’s stark production allows her voice to take center stage, reinforcing her ability to dominate even among elite rap company. “Only” became a defining moment of the Pinkprint era, underscoring her durability and authority within the genre.
“Pound the Alarm” (2012)
A vibrant celebration of rhythm and adrenaline, “Pound the Alarm” amplified Nicki’s global reach with its carnival-inspired sound and explosive tempo. The track became a festival favorite, showcasing her ability to command massive crowds and embrace infectious, high-energy production. It represents her boldest dive into international pop influences and highlights the breadth of her artistic range. The song stands as a reminder that Nicki Minaj’s superstar run has always thrived on fearless experimentation.
