Rapper Nicki Minaj has announced the launch of her own record label.
The news was dropped during the Grammy-winning rapper’s Queen Radio show on Friday (March 3), where she also revealed that Nana Fofie, Tate Kobang, Rico Danna, and London Hill are among the artists signed to the label.
Minaj announced, “I have a record label now,” while leaving the door open for the unveiling of the label’s name at a later time. You guys know how I do s— for people who aren’t even signed to me when I get behind an artist. Consider what I’ll do to the signatories.
Minaj has announced that Patty Lauren (aka Patty Duke), a longtime collaborator, will work as an A&R for the label.
On Friday, Young Money/Republic released “Red Ruby Da Sleeze,” the first single from the Queen of Rap in 2023. It’s her first solo effort since last year’s “Super Freaky Girl,” which topped the Billboard Hot 100.
Minaj revealed to her Queen Radio audience on Friday that she was texting with Wendy Goldstein, co-president of Republic Records when she made the label announcement.
I told Wendy, “We have to do something big. You’re a woman too, so we’re both females. Take your time and do it properly. Let’s make sure we get this right. Not one of those tiny little nothings, please. The rapper proclaimed, “I want to do it right.
Minaj noted that there would be a wide range of musical styles represented on her forthcoming record label. She emphasized that her label was not limited to rap music or to people of color. There are “other types of music” available.
Minaj also discussed how Lil Wayne had a significant impact on her early in her career and how she aspires to do the same for the artists on her label.
I didn’t sign anything with Lil Wayne before I got into this business. But he took us on the road, he put us in the studio, and he was sampling my music for my mixtapes, she said. Since I’ve been in your shoes, I know how helpful it is to have someone else do the work. I get it now that there is no foundation, and that people can just pop out and be so microwaveable and transient. Not a single real person has faith in them. That’s like saying, “No, I’m going to make it my business to see you shine.”
