Biography
Onika Tanya Maraj (born December 8, 1982) is a Trinidadian-born American rapper, singer, songwriter, actress, and voice actress. Professionally known as Nicki Minaj, she is recognized as one of the most prominent female rappers worldwide, celebrated for her artistic versatility, sharp lyricism, dynamic flow, and use of alter egos and distinctive accents.
During her early childhood, Minaj lived with her grandmother in Saint James, Trinidad and Tobago before relocating to New York City at age five to join her parents. Her father, Robert Maraj, a financial executive and part-time gospel singer, is of Indo-Trinidadian and Afro-Trinidadian heritage, while her mother, Carol Maraj, also a gospel singer, is of Afro-Trinidadian descent.
Minaj graduated from LaGuardia High School in Manhattan, which specializes in visual and performing arts, aiming to pursue acting. In 2001, she was cast in the Off-Broadway play 'In Case You Forget.' She gained public recognition after releasing three mixtapes between 2007 and 2009, signing with Young Money Entertainment, and standing out through notable features before launching her debut studio album, 'Pink Friday,' in 2010. This album propelled her to global fame and cultural icon status, with her influence, popularity, and acclaim continuing to grow throughout the decade. She holds the record as the most followed rapper on Instagram.
Minaj made her film debut as a voice actress in the 2012 animated movie 'Ice Age: Continental Drift,' followed by supporting roles in 'The Other Woman' (2014) and voice acting in 'Angry Birds Movie 2' (2019). She has appeared through archival footage in various films and documentaries and announced in early 2022 her plans to refocus on acting, aiming for her most significant role yet.
13 wins and 35 nominations
