Nicki Minaj is moving with purpose and poise. Widely regarded as one of the most influential female rappers in music history, the hip-hop powerhouse is taking a deliberate step back before unveiling her next era. After a monumental 2023 that included the release of Pink Friday 2 and a record-breaking world tour, Nicki has been laying low in 2025 — not out of absence, but out of intention.
In a revealing May 27 cover story for Vogue Italia, the Queens native offered fans a rare glimpse into her creative process and emotional mindset as she carefully crafts her next album. While fans may be eagerly awaiting new material, Nicki is making it clear: she’s in no rush, and she refuses to release music just for the sake of headlines or hype.
“I want the record to mean something—both for the fans and for me,” she said. “I’ll never be one of those people who puts out songs just to put them out. I love music. I respect it.”
Her words are a reflection of an artist deeply rooted in her passion for the craft. Despite already having a vault full of unreleased tracks, Nicki is prioritizing intention and artistic integrity over speed. For her, the goal isn’t just to drop another project—it’s to deliver something timeless and emotionally resonant.
Nicki Minaj Is Taking Her Time — and She’s Doing It with Purpose
Nicki Minaj emphasized that she’s not working toward arbitrary deadlines set by the industry, but toward creating a body of work that will truly speak to her audience and herself. “It’s about energy. It’s about timing. It’s about the message,” she said.
When the album finally drops, Nicki Minaj is more than ready to take the stage again. Performing is where she feels most at home, especially when surrounded by her loyal fanbase—the Barbz. “To experience it all again—as soon as possible. For me and for the Barbz,” she shared, noting how eager she is to reconnect with fans through live shows and music that reflects her evolution.
The anticipation follows the massive success of her Pink Friday 2 tour, which became the highest-grossing rap tour ever by a female artist. While the numbers were historic,Nicki Minaj stressed that the true value came from something deeper.
“It wasn’t just about ticket sales or records,” she said. “It was about sharing moments, hearing the crowd sing every word, and creating a legacy that goes beyond the charts.”also took time to laugh about her now-viral “Did I lie?” meme—an unforgettable clip from a 2018 CRWN interview during her Queen era. Though it’s since become a staple on social media, the rapper revealed she initially didn’t love the attention.
“I hate how I look in that video,” she admitted with a chuckle. “When people started using it, I thought, ‘I’m blocking you all!’ Then I gave in—it’s actually pretty funny.”
Moments like these show another side of Nicki Minaj—one that’s playful, self-aware, and in control of her narrative. It’s this mix of raw talent, unapologetic honesty, and deep connection with her audience that has helped her maintain her position at the top of the game for over a decade.
Now, as she carefully prepares to enter her next chapter, Nicki is proving that she’s not just chasing hits—she’s building something meaningful. Whether she’s breaking records, cracking jokes, or opening her heart to the Barbz, one thing is certain: Nicki Minaj is doing it all with purpose.
And when she’s ready to release what’s next, the world will be listening.
