Nicki Minaj paid respects to artists that helped influence her along the way during her 2022 MTV VMAs speech, and Lil Kim wasn’t among the names mentioned.
The rapper was honored with the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award after performing a greatest hits medley with songs like “Roman Revenge,” “Monster,” “Beez in the Trap,” “Super Bass,” “Anaconda,” and more.
The “Barbz” fans introduced the rapper as she graced the stage to accept the award, stating that she’s never written a speech until now, firstly thanking everyone in the arena.
The rapper went on to list the artists who have influenced her, including names like Lil’ Wayne, Foxy Brown, Jay-Z, Slick Rick, Lauryn Hill, and Doug E. Fresh, leaving Lil Kim off the list.
Lil Kim, known as the “The Queen Bee” of hip-hop, was discovered by Notorious B.I.G in the ’90s, eventually paving the way for female rap artists.
As for Nicki and Lil Kim’s relationship, the two leading ladies have yet to find a way to come together as creatives. It all started in 2007 when Minaj released promo pics for her Playtime is Over mixtape, mimicking Lil Kim’s 1996 album cover.
Can we all just admit Nicki just did the reverse version of lil kim's album cover? pic.twitter.com/WmSzDodwoR
— @Baker-Bone (@BakerBone) July 26, 2014
The two artists have since been known for their tension, including Nicki unexpectedly admitting to Hot 97 in 2013 that Lil Kim is one of her inspirations.
Minaj thanked more artists later during the award ceremony, including Taylor Swift, Mary J Blige, Elton John, and Diddy, who signed Lil Kim to Bad Boy Records at the beginning of her career.
What did you think about Nicki Minaj’s medley of greatest hits? Let us know by sending us a tweet @celebsecrets or by reacting to this article.
For more 2022 MTV VMA’s coverage, click here.
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