In a recent accolade that underscores her monumental impact on the music industry, Nicki Minaj has been named the greatest female rapper of all time by Billboard. This recognition highlights her significant contributions to hip-hop and her enduring influence over the past 15 years.

Billboard’s editorial team emphasized Minaj’s transformative role in the genre, stating, “Fifteen years after she left earth with her godly verse on Kanye West’s ‘Monster’ and delivered her seminal ‘Pink Friday’ debut album, the First Lady of Young Money is still running laps around the competition.” They further noted, “Minaj quickly usurped the throne and stylistically rewrote the playbook for female rappers, while becoming an architect of pop music in the process.”

Minaj’s career is adorned with numerous milestones that reflect her dominance in the industry. She has achieved three number-one albums on the Billboard 200 chart, including her latest, ‘Pink Friday 2,’ which debuted at number one in December 2023, making her the female rapper with the most US number-one albums in history. Additionally, Minaj has amassed over 100 million records sold worldwide, solidifying her status as the best-selling female rapper. Her influence extends beyond sales; she has three diamond-certified songs by the RIAA and, in 2024, became the first female rapper with multiple diamond-certified solo songs.

Beyond her chart achievements, Minaj’s cultural impact is profound. She has been a trailblazer for female artists in a predominantly male industry, breaking barriers and setting new standards. Her unique style, lyrical prowess, and versatility have inspired a new generation of artists, reshaping the landscape of hip-hop and pop music.

This recognition from Billboard not only celebrates Minaj’s past accomplishments but also acknowledges her ongoing influence and relevance in the music world. As she continues to evolve as an artist, her legacy as a pioneer and icon in the industry remains firmly established.