Billboard Crowns Nicki Minaj the Greatest Female Rapper of All Time

The evolution of hip-hop would be incomplete without the trailblazing contributions of female rappers—artists who broke into the scene with charisma, confidence, and creativity. These women brought alter egos, unapologetic energy, and chart-topping hits, shaping the soundscape of modern rap. Among them, one name continues to rise above all: Nicki Minaj.

In a recently released article that has taken the internet by storm, Billboard unveiled its list of the 25 best female rappers of all time, naming Nicki Minaj as the undisputed No. 1.

“Who else did you expect to see at No. 1 on this list?” the article rhetorically asks, before diving into a comprehensive rundown of Minaj’s groundbreaking achievements. From her multiple alter egos to her staggering accolades, Minaj’s legacy remains unmatched in today’s rap landscape.

As the most decorated female rapper in history—with a total of 478 award wins—Minaj’s dominance is clear. She holds the record for the most Billboard Hot 100 entries among female rappers, with over 100 songs. She has released three Billboard 200 No. 1 albums, all of which have achieved Platinum certification or higher from the RIAA.

In 2022, Minaj became only the second solo female rapper to debut at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 with her hit single “Super Freaky Girl,” breaking a 24-year drought among female rappers. That same year, she won the MTV Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award, following in the footsteps of Missy Elliott as the second female rapper to receive the honor.

Among her Billboard No. 1 singles are “Say So (Remix),” “Trollz,” and “Super Freaky Girl.” She also boasts three RIAA-certified diamond singles—a rare achievement accomplished by only 35 artists globally.

Minaj is widely credited with reviving female rap in the 2010s, infusing it with her dynamic flow and genre-blending style. Her most iconic verses include her fiery contribution to Kanye West’s “Monster,” the pop-rap smash “Starships,” the hard-hitting “My Nigga (Remix),” the chart-friendly “Beauty and a Beat” with Justin Bieber, and her breakout anthems “Super Bass,” “Rake It Up” with Yo Gotti, and the Latin crossover sensation “Tusa” with Karol G.

Outside of music, Minaj’s influence spans fashion, television, gaming, and business. She launched her record label, Heavy On It Records, in 2023, introduced a press-on nail brand, Pink Friday Nails, and collaborated with British apparel line LØCI on a sneaker collection. She also owns a line of fragrances and the Moscato brand MYX Fusions.

The Trinidadian native has graced the covers of renowned magazines including Vogue, Marie Claire, Elle, Harper’s Bazaar, and Cosmopolitan. Known for her bold and avant-garde style, she is a regular at major fashion events such as the Met Gala and the CFDA Fashion Awards.

The top ten also featured a legendary lineup of hip-hop icons, with Missy Elliott ranked at No. 2, followed by Ms. Lauryn Hill at No. 3, Lil’ Kim at No. 4, Queen Latifah at No. 5, MC Lyte at No. 6, Salt-N-Pepa at No. 7, Roxanne Shanté at No. 8, Eve at No. 9, and Foxy Brown rounding out the top ten at No. 10.

Other notable artists featured include Cardi B, Megan Thee Stallion, Latto, GloRilla, Rapsody, Gangsta Boo, Doja Cat, Remy Ma, TLC’s Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes, and Doechii.

This prestigious honor affirms Nicki Minaj’s enduring legacy as a cultural icon and a cornerstone of hip-hop. Her influence continues to inspire generations of artists across the globe.

Read the Billboard article here.