Hip-hop icon Nicki Minaj is showing major love to the next generation of music stars, naming Sabrina Carpenter and Billie Eilish as true superstars in a candid interview with Vogue Italia. The Queen of Rap, known for her outspoken personality and influence across music and pop culture, shared her insights on fame, talent, and the evolving landscape of the music industry.
The interview, published on May 27, offers a rare glimpse into Minaj’s perspective on both her contemporaries and the rising stars she admires. While social media has reshaped how artists connect with fans and promote music, Minaj stresses that raw talent and authenticity always shine through, no matter the platform.
“A Superstar Is a Superstar”
During the interview, Minaj spoke about the challenges of navigating today’s music industry:
“A superstar is a superstar. If you are one, you’ll find a way to shine — with or without social media. Like any tool, it can be used well or not. What I feel, sometimes, is that today’s artists don’t realize how important the record label is. They don’t realize how much happens behind the scenes. It all looks easy.”
Her words underscore a key point: while social media can amplify fame, it cannot replace talent, work ethic, or the artistry required to make a lasting impact. For Minaj, real superstars create their own paths and leave an indelible mark on culture, regardless of the era or medium.
Big Love for Sabrina Carpenter and Billie Eilish
When asked to name some of the rising talents she admires, Minaj did not hold back:
“Sabrina Carpenter,” she said. “I didn’t know she’d been around that long when I started listening to her. A breath of fresh air.”
Carpenter, known for her infectious pop hooks and consistent growth as an artist, has been steadily climbing the charts. Her 2024 hit “Espresso” continues to dominate streaming platforms, further cementing her place as a modern pop powerhouse.
“I like Billie Eilish. I love everything she does,” Minaj added.
Eilish, celebrated for her haunting vocals and genre-blurring sound, previously collaborated with Minaj in a subtle, uncredited way on Pink Friday 2, Minaj’s latest album. On the album’s intro track “Are You Gone Already,” Eilish’s ethereal vocals open the song before Minaj delivers a heartfelt verse about motherhood. The unexpected collaboration highlighted the mutual admiration between the two artists and hinted at the potential for future projects.
Minaj also mentioned discovering new talent outside the mainstream, like dancehall artist Skeng, showcasing her ear for global sounds and her commitment to celebrating diverse musical voices.
A Powerful Exchange Between Artists
The mutual respect between Minaj and Eilish extends beyond music. Last month, during a British Vogue special edition, Minaj submitted a heartfelt question for Eilish, asking:
“Was there ever a time in your career, or before you made it, when you wished people couldn’t see you — that they could only hear the music, and really get a chance to just listen to the written words?”
Eilish’s response was deeply moving:
“Nicki, this question made me tear up a little. I’ve never really felt very beautiful or seen myself in that way, so I definitely never struggled with the idea that it would overshadow anything, since I didn’t even really see it myself. I’ve had to really convince myself that I am beautiful. Being a woman is hard.”
The exchange highlighted the importance of vulnerability and mentorship in the music industry, as well as the significance of female solidarity in a field often dominated by scrutiny and high expectations.
Unity Among Superstars
Nicki Minaj’s praise for Carpenter and Eilish is more than a passing compliment — it’s a reminder of the power of support and recognition among women in music. Her acknowledgment helps amplify the achievements of younger artists while reinforcing the message that talent, hard work, and authenticity are always noticed.
This recognition comes at a critical moment in both Carpenter’s and Eilish’s careers. Carpenter continues to solidify her reputation as a versatile pop artist with a growing fan base and critical acclaim, while Eilish has expanded her reach globally, experimenting with new sounds and collaborations.
Minaj herself, with over two decades of influence, is acutely aware of the pressures faced by emerging artists. Her comments reflect not only admiration but also guidance, subtly emphasizing the importance of dedication, professionalism, and understanding the business side of music.
What Fans Can Expect Next
As Nicki Minaj continues her Pink Friday 2 World Tour, fans are hopeful for a potential collaboration with Carpenter or Eilish. The tour, which has already featured surprise guest appearances and memorable performances, represents an opportunity for Minaj to continue showcasing her influence while celebrating the new wave of talent she champions.
Social media quickly responded to her remarks, with fans praising Minaj’s recognition of other women in music and expressing excitement for possible future projects. The sentiment is clear: when a superstar like Nicki Minaj acknowledges emerging stars, it not only validates their work but also inspires the next generation of musicians.
The Broader Implications
Nicki Minaj’s words resonate beyond individual artists. They speak to a larger truth in the music industry: success requires a combination of talent, perseverance, and strategic support. Social media can provide visibility, but it cannot manufacture the creativity, discipline, or stage presence that defines a true superstar.
Her comments also highlight the role of legacy and mentorship. By championing emerging artists, Minaj helps foster a culture of mutual respect, encouraging young performers to continue honing their craft while remaining grounded in their artistry.
Conclusion
Nicki Minaj’s praise for Sabrina Carpenter and Billie Eilish serves as a powerful reminder that real talent transcends platforms, trends, and social media hype. In her words:
“A superstar is a superstar.”
Whether through heartfelt interviews, uncredited collaborations, or public acknowledgment, Minaj continues to demonstrate that supporting other artists is just as important as creating her own music. Her admiration for Carpenter and Eilish reflects a commitment to unity, recognition, and the celebration of female talent in an ever-evolving industry.
As Minaj tours the world with Pink Friday 2, fans will be watching closely — not just for her legendary performances, but for the next generation of stars she continues to uplift. In an era dominated by fleeting trends, her recognition ensures that true talent, like Carpenter’s and Eilish’s, cannot be ignored.
