The Best Nicki Minaj Features

Nicki Minaj is a competitive MC who always rises to the occasion when rhyming alongside her peers—from Lil Wayne ad Drake to Beyonce and Trey Songz. Need proof? Here are Nicki Minaj's best guest verses and features, ranked.

May 08, 2018

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There's no doubt about it: Nicki Minaj is a star. But, just for shits and giggles, let’s say some folks are still on the fence about the illuminating wattage of her star power. All you have to do is check her resume: Over the course of the past decade, Nicki has released several notable mixtapes and three platinum-selling albums that have produced countless chart-topping singles. In the process, Nicki has established herself as a global brand with numerous endorsement deals, movie roles, and a gaggle of dedicated fans that she affectionately refers to as “Barbz.”

All of the above has not only established Nicki as one of the best to ever do it—male, female, whatever—but also as an in-demand MC who can take a simple song and turn it into a smash hit just because she’s featured on it. It’s not just due to name recognition; the Queens rapper has penchant for penning deadly bars that keep everybody talking. With her fourth solo album, the aptly titled Queen, on the way, we thought it was a good time to reflect on some of her past heat. Here are the 20 best Nicki Minaj features, ranked.

Album: N/A

Producer: Timbaland, JMIKE, & Mad Max

Birdman recently called Nicki Minaj “the best female ever in hip-hop history.” It’s obvious the confidence Birdman has in Nicki’s talent is deep, considering she spit the first verse on this track back in 2011. Even in her earlier days in the rap game, Nicki’s flow rivaled that of the biggest men in the industry, including Birdman and Lil Wayne. Nicki knew this too, using this verse as an opportunity to remind everyone of her gilded seat in the game: “Damn, Billboard, I mean I’m winning but I’m still bored.” —Alessandra Maldonado — youtube.com

**Album:** N/A

**Producer:** Timbaland, JMIKE, & Mad Max

Birdman recently called Nicki Minaj “the best female ever in hip-hop history.” It’s obvious the confidence Birdman has in Nicki’s talent is deep, considering she spit the first verse on this track back in 2011. Even in her earlier days in the rap game, Nicki’s flow rivaled that of the biggest men in the industry, including Birdman and Lil Wayne. Nicki knew this too, using this verse as an opportunity to remind everyone of her gilded seat in the game: “Damn, *Billboard*, I mean I’m winning but I’m still bored.” —*Alessandra Maldonado*

youtube.com

**Album:** N/A

**Producer:** Timbaland, JMIKE, & Mad Max

Birdman recently called Nicki Minaj “the best female ever in hip-hop history.” It’s obvious the confidence Birdman has in Nicki’s talent is deep, considering she spit the first verse on this track back in 2011. Even in her earlier days in the rap game, Nicki’s flow rivaled that of the biggest men in the industry, including Birdman and Lil Wayne. Nicki knew this too, using this verse as an opportunity to remind everyone of her gilded seat in the game: “Damn, *Billboard*, I mean I’m winning but I’m still bored.” —*Alessandra Maldonado*

Album: Ciara

Producer: The CoCaptains & R. City

What do you get when you mix two of the most influential women in the music industry? A fire hit letting every woman know they really don’t need a man. “Go 'head and tell him now, ‘You gon' miss me when I'm gone.’" Nicki follows this short intro with a pretty clear message: no matter how much shade you throw on Instagram, she still runs the rap game—and is the baddest woman in it. “If he got a new bitch, then tell that bitch meet you outside/ And pop her like a molly 'til them bitches recognize.” Now there’s a level of confidence we should all aspire to have. —Alessandra Maldonado — youtube.com

**Album:** *Ciara*

**Producer:** The CoCaptains & R. City

What do you get when you mix two of the most influential women in the music industry? A fire hit letting every woman know they really don’t need a man. “Go 'head and tell him now, ‘You gon' miss me when I'm gone.’" Nicki follows this short intro with a pretty clear message: no matter how much shade you throw on Instagram, she still runs the rap game—and is the baddest woman in it. “If he got a new bitch, then tell that bitch meet you outside/ And pop her like a molly 'til them bitches recognize.” Now there’s a level of confidence we should all aspire to have. —*Alessandra Maldonado*

youtube.com

**Album:** *Ciara*

**Producer:** The CoCaptains & R. City

What do you get when you mix two of the most influential women in the music industry? A fire hit letting every woman know they really don’t need a man. “Go 'head and tell him now, ‘You gon' miss me when I'm gone.’" Nicki follows this short intro with a pretty clear message: no matter how much shade you throw on Instagram, she still runs the rap game—and is the baddest woman in it. “If he got a new bitch, then tell that bitch meet you outside/ And pop her like a molly 'til them bitches recognize.” Now there’s a level of confidence we should all aspire to have. —*Alessandra Maldonado*

Album: Battle of the Sexes

Producer: The Legendary Traxster

Despite its placement on this list, for me, this verse is right up there with “Bottom’s Up” and “Dance (A$$) Remix,” at least in terms of how iconic it felt (and still feels). Throughout the song, Ludacris plays with the multiple definitions of the term “bad,” one being more traditional, i.e. “badass,” and one à la Michael Jackson. However, when it comes time for Nicki’s verse, she makes it clear which definition she prefers: not only did she choose to reference a female athlete instead of a male one, she also compared herself to two male horror movie villains—gender roles everywhere were shaking. Oh, and she rhymed “bestie” with “teste,” because of course she did. —Carolyn Bernucca — youtube.com

**Album:** *Battle of the Sexes*

**Producer:** The Legendary Traxster

Despite its placement on this list, for me, this verse is right up there with “Bottom’s Up” and “Dance (A$$) Remix,” at least in terms of how iconic it felt (and still feels). Throughout the song, Ludacris plays with the multiple definitions of the term “bad,” one being more traditional, i.e. “badass,” and one à la Michael Jackson. However, when it comes time for Nicki’s verse, she makes it clear which definition she prefers: not only did she choose to reference a female athlete instead of a male one, she also compared herself to two male horror movie villains—gender roles everywhere were shaking. Oh, and she rhymed “bestie” with “teste,” because of course she did. —*Carolyn Bernucca*

youtube.com

**Album:** *Battle of the Sexes*

**Producer:** The Legendary Traxster

Despite its placement on this list, for me, this verse is right up there with “Bottom’s Up” and “Dance (A$$) Remix,” at least in terms of how iconic it felt (and still feels). Throughout the song, Ludacris plays with the multiple definitions of the term “bad,” one being more traditional, i.e. “badass,” and one à la Michael Jackson. However, when it comes time for Nicki’s verse, she makes it clear which definition she prefers: not only did she choose to reference a female athlete instead of a male one, she also compared herself to two male horror movie villains—gender roles everywhere were shaking. Oh, and she rhymed “bestie” with “teste,” because of course she did. —*Carolyn Bernucca*

Album: I Still Am

Producer: 30 Rock & Mike Will Made It

Nicki is usually out for blood when she truly spits, but "Rake It Up," yet another collab with Yo Gotti, sees her having some fun. She's talking cash money shit off rip: "Brought out the pink Lamborghini just to race with Chyna / Brought the Wraith to China just to race in China..." As the verse continues, she veers into familiar territory—her sex game and how oh-so-good it is. One of the best lines of the song comes in the midst of this opining, when she tells all of her would-be lovers to "turn your goofy down." It's a signature Nicki line that makes perfect sense coming out of her mouth, but would sound... well, goofy, coming out of anyone else's. That, my friends, is just one of Nicki's many appealing traits: the ability to turn the absurd into art. —Kiana Fitzgerald — youtube.com

**Album:** *I Still Am*

**Producer:** 30 Rock & Mike Will Made It

Nicki is usually out for blood when she truly spits, but "Rake It Up," yet another collab with Yo Gotti, sees her having some fun. She's talking cash money shit off rip: "Brought out the pink Lamborghini just to race with Chyna / Brought the Wraith to China just to race in China..." As the verse continues, she veers into familiar territory—her sex game and how oh-so-good it is. One of the best lines of the song comes in the midst of this opining, when she tells all of her would-be lovers to "turn your goofy down." It's a signature Nicki line that makes perfect sense coming out of her mouth, but would sound... well, goofy, coming out of anyone else's. That, my friends, is just one of Nicki's many appealing traits: the ability to turn the absurd into art. —*Kiana Fitzgerald*

youtube.com

**Album:** *I Still Am*

**Producer:** 30 Rock & Mike Will Made It

Nicki is usually out for blood when she truly spits, but "Rake It Up," yet another collab with Yo Gotti, sees her having some fun. She's talking cash money shit off rip: "Brought out the pink Lamborghini just to race with Chyna / Brought the Wraith to China just to race in China..." As the verse continues, she veers into familiar territory—her sex game and how oh-so-good it is. One of the best lines of the song comes in the midst of this opining, when she tells all of her would-be lovers to "turn your goofy down." It's a signature Nicki line that makes perfect sense coming out of her mouth, but would sound... well, goofy, coming out of anyone else's. That, my friends, is just one of Nicki's many appealing traits: the ability to turn the absurd into art. —*Kiana Fitzgerald*

Album: The Art of Hustle

Producer: Schife & Ben Billions

As great as “Down in the DM” is by itself, all it takes is a Nicki verse to send it to the heavens. Her perspective provides the perfect female antithesis to Yo Gotti’s description of the DM. Coming for Meek and Safaree’s necks—“Your d*ck ain't good enough to be stylin' on me”—Nicki lets them know that just because she “chose” to be with them, their positions are far from permanent, and practically invites them to keep acting up. Plus, everybody knows that Nicki is queen, but if you have “the” Queen Bey co-sign (“Even Queen Bey had to tell 'em I'm the queen”), then you know it’s all facts. Nicki speaks on behalf of every woman who thinks their man is taking them for granted: “If it go down in your DM then baby boy, you lucky/ 'Cause 99.9% of these fuckboys can't fuck me.” We appreciate you, sis. —Evan Lawson — youtube.com

**Album:** *The Art of Hustle*

**Producer:** Schife & Ben Billions

As great as “Down in the DM” is by itself, all it takes is a Nicki verse to send it to the heavens. Her perspective provides the perfect female antithesis to Yo Gotti’s description of the DM. Coming for Meek and Safaree’s necks—“Your d*ck ain't good enough to be stylin' on me”—Nicki lets them know that just because she “chose” to be with them, their positions are far from permanent, and practically invites them to keep acting up. Plus, everybody knows that Nicki is queen, but if you have “the” Queen Bey co-sign (“Even Queen Bey had to tell 'em I'm the queen”), then you know it’s all facts. Nicki speaks on behalf of every woman who thinks their man is taking them for granted: “If it go down in your DM then baby boy, you lucky/ 'Cause 99.9% of these fuckboys can't fuck me.” We appreciate you, sis. —*Evan Lawson*

youtube.com

**Album:** *The Art of Hustle*

**Producer:** Schife & Ben Billions

As great as “Down in the DM” is by itself, all it takes is a Nicki verse to send it to the heavens. Her perspective provides the perfect female antithesis to Yo Gotti’s description of the DM. Coming for Meek and Safaree’s necks—“Your d*ck ain't good enough to be stylin' on me”—Nicki lets them know that just because she “chose” to be with them, their positions are far from permanent, and practically invites them to keep acting up. Plus, everybody knows that Nicki is queen, but if you have “the” Queen Bey co-sign (“Even Queen Bey had to tell 'em I'm the queen”), then you know it’s all facts. Nicki speaks on behalf of every woman who thinks their man is taking them for granted: “If it go down in your DM then baby boy, you lucky/ 'Cause 99.9% of these fuckboys can't fuck me.” We appreciate you, sis. —*Evan Lawson*

Album: Trigga

Producer: The Featherstones

Not every feature has to be long-winded to make an impact. Just look at what Nicki did to this Trey Songz single in 20 seconds flat. Swooping in like some sort of Harajuku Barbie ninja edition, she plays lyrical Tetris on the track, stacking syllables on top of syllables in a blistering fury that would give the average MC performance anxiety. —Anslem Samuel Rocque — youtube.com

**Album:** *Trigga*

**Producer:** The Featherstones

Not every feature has to be long-winded to make an impact. Just look at what Nicki did to this Trey Songz single in 20 seconds flat. Swooping in like some sort of Harajuku Barbie ninja edition, she plays lyrical Tetris on the track, stacking syllables on top of syllables in a blistering fury that would give the average MC performance anxiety. —*Anslem Samuel Rocque*

youtube.com

**Album:** *Trigga*

**Producer:** The Featherstones

Not every feature has to be long-winded to make an impact. Just look at what Nicki did to this Trey Songz single in 20 seconds flat. Swooping in like some sort of Harajuku Barbie ninja edition, she plays lyrical Tetris on the track, stacking syllables on top of syllables in a blistering fury that would give the average MC performance anxiety. —*Anslem Samuel Rocque*

Album: M.O.

Producer: Pharrell Williams

You're forgiven for not knowing this existed because who among us is really checking in on latter-career Nelly? A too-chill Pharrell beat that sounds like it was from his 04-06 Macbook folder isn't going to help people tune in. And yet, Nicki's verse is worth the price of admission—and certainly worth Nelly breaking his budget to get her. Nicki's vocals are often as theatrical as her visual presentation, but similarly, sometimes she shines even brighter when she exercises some restraint. Voices and extending syllables for 35 seconds is cool, but, " You should follow my example, bitch, i.e.?" That's just too solid. Nelly should've paid extra. —Frazier Tharpe — youtube.com

**Album:** *M.O.*

**Producer:** Pharrell Williams

You're forgiven for not knowing this existed because who among us is really checking in on latter-career Nelly? A too-chill Pharrell beat that sounds like it was from his 04-06 Macbook folder isn't going to help people tune in. And yet, Nicki's verse is worth the price of admission—and certainly worth Nelly breaking his budget to get her. Nicki's vocals are often as theatrical as her visual presentation, but similarly, sometimes she shines even brighter when she exercises some restraint. Voices and extending syllables for 35 seconds is cool, but, " You should follow my example, bitch, i.e.?" That's just too solid. Nelly should've paid extra. —*Frazier Tharpe*

youtube.com

**Album:** *M.O.*

**Producer:** Pharrell Williams

You're forgiven for not knowing this existed because who among us is really checking in on latter-career Nelly? A too-chill Pharrell beat that sounds like it was from his 04-06 Macbook folder isn't going to help people tune in. And yet, Nicki's verse is worth the price of admission—and certainly worth Nelly breaking his budget to get her. Nicki's vocals are often as theatrical as her visual presentation, but similarly, sometimes she shines even brighter when she exercises some restraint. Voices and extending syllables for 35 seconds is cool, but, " You should follow my example, bitch, i.e.?" That's just too solid. Nelly should've paid extra. —*Frazier Tharpe*

Album: Rebirth

Producer: J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League

Nicki Minaj shouting about giving head for eight bars was a huge part of my sex education, and for that, I am forever indebted to her. Nine years later, I would definitely prefer eight straight bars about cunnilingus, but at least this verse also gave us the greatest threat of all time: “When I throw this pussy, you better not start duckin’.” I had forgotten about this song, as it came from Wayne’s chaotic Rebirth era, but trust that from this day forth, I will be adding “Aw, fuck it, give me that damn bucket” back into my everyday vocabulary. —Carolyn Bernucca — youtube.com

**Album:** *Rebirth*

**Producer:** J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League

Nicki Minaj shouting about giving head for eight bars was a huge part of my sex education, and for that, I am forever indebted to her. Nine years later, I would definitely prefer eight straight bars about cunnilingus, but at least this verse also gave us the greatest threat of all time: “When I throw this pussy, you better not start duckin’.” I had forgotten about this song, as it came from Wayne’s chaotic *Rebirth* era, but trust that from this day forth, I will be adding “Aw, fuck it, give me that damn bucket” back into my everyday vocabulary. —*Carolyn Bernucca*

youtube.com

**Album:** *Rebirth*

**Producer:** J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League

Nicki Minaj shouting about giving head for eight bars was a huge part of my sex education, and for that, I am forever indebted to her. Nine years later, I would definitely prefer eight straight bars about cunnilingus, but at least this verse also gave us the greatest threat of all time: “When I throw this pussy, you better not start duckin’.” I had forgotten about this song, as it came from Wayne’s chaotic *Rebirth* era, but trust that from this day forth, I will be adding “Aw, fuck it, give me that damn bucket” back into my everyday vocabulary. —*Carolyn Bernucca*

Album: We Are Young Money

Producer: PHENOM

As recently as this month, Nicki was downplaying the idea that she had reached the lyrical heights of her mentor Lil Wayne. It's a stance she may want to re-think, given that she was absolutely bodying him on tracks as early as 2009. "Roger That" is a prime example. Wayne gets occasional good lines off, but is unfocused. Nicki, on the other hand, is energized, funny, coherent, taunting, and (very) raunchy all at once. It's the kind of verse that gets better the more you listen to it, as the shock at the content wears off and the extreme attention to detail in the writing becomes more apparent. —Shawn Setaro — youtube.com

**Album:** *We Are Young Money*

**Producer:** PHENOM

As recently as this month, Nicki was downplaying the idea that she had reached the lyrical heights of her mentor Lil Wayne. It's a stance she may want to re-think, given that she was absolutely bodying him on tracks as early as 2009. "Roger That" is a prime example. Wayne gets occasional good lines off, but is unfocused. Nicki, on the other hand, is energized, funny, coherent, taunting, and (very) raunchy all at once. It's the kind of verse that gets better the more you listen to it, as the shock at the content wears off and the extreme attention to detail in the writing becomes more apparent. —*Shawn Setaro*

youtube.com

**Album:** *We Are Young Money*

**Producer:** PHENOM

As recently as this month, Nicki was downplaying the idea that she had reached the lyrical heights of her mentor Lil Wayne. It's a stance she may want to re-think, given that she was absolutely bodying him on tracks as early as 2009. "Roger That" is a prime example. Wayne gets occasional good lines off, but is unfocused. Nicki, on the other hand, is energized, funny, coherent, taunting, and (very) raunchy all at once. It's the kind of verse that gets better the more you listen to it, as the shock at the content wears off and the extreme attention to detail in the writing becomes more apparent. —*Shawn Setaro*

Album: N/A

Producer: J-Mill

A sexy and sensual track, “Take It Off” showcases Nicki’s ability to completely body a verse. Here she teams up with Lloyd and J. Holiday for a track dedicated to all things sex. However, Nicki makes it known that she’s not here to play. “If hip-hop was dead, bitch I just brought her back.” And by the looks of this verse, she might just be right. —Alessandra Maldonado — youtube.com

**Album:** N/A

**Producer:** J-Mill

A sexy and sensual track, “Take It Off” showcases Nicki’s ability to completely body a verse. Here she teams up with Lloyd and J. Holiday for a track dedicated to all things sex. However, Nicki makes it known that she’s not here to play. “If hip-hop was dead, bitch I just brought her back.” And by the looks of this verse, she might just be right. —*Alessandra Maldonado*

youtube.com

**Album:** N/A

**Producer:** J-Mill

A sexy and sensual track, “Take It Off” showcases Nicki’s ability to completely body a verse. Here she teams up with Lloyd and J. Holiday for a track dedicated to all things sex. However, Nicki makes it known that she’s not here to play. “If hip-hop was dead, bitch I just brought her back.” And by the looks of this verse, she might just be right. —*Alessandra Maldonado*

Album: No Ceilings

Producer: Wayne Wilkins, Jim Jonsin, Beyonce, & Rico Love

Long before Onika was literally summoned to wreak havoc on the track like the Dragonzord by the Queen herself, she had to settle for simply jacking beats alongside Weezy and toe-tagging them. The audition is arguably better than the feature performance. 2009 Nicki was on a tear to remind you why everyone was talking about her in the first place. Turning one of Beyonce's weaker songs from her weakest album into a neck-snapping must-listen certainly did the trick. —Frazier Tharpe — youtube.com

**Album:** *No Ceilings*

**Producer:** Wayne Wilkins, Jim Jonsin, Beyonce, & Rico Love

Long before Onika was literally summoned to wreak havoc on the track like the Dragonzord by the Queen herself, she had to settle for simply jacking beats alongside Weezy and toe-tagging them. The audition is arguably better than the feature performance. 2009 Nicki was on a tear to remind you why everyone was talking about her in the first place. Turning one of Beyonce's weaker songs from her weakest album into a neck-snapping must-listen certainly did the trick. —*Frazier Tharpe*

youtube.com

**Album:** *No Ceilings*

**Producer:** Wayne Wilkins, Jim Jonsin, Beyonce, & Rico Love

Long before Onika was literally summoned to wreak havoc on the track like the Dragonzord by the Queen herself, she had to settle for simply jacking beats alongside Weezy and toe-tagging them. The audition is arguably better than the feature performance. 2009 Nicki was on a tear to remind you why everyone was talking about her in the first place. Turning one of Beyonce's weaker songs from her weakest album into a neck-snapping must-listen certainly did the trick. —*Frazier Tharpe*

Album: Beyoncé

Producer: Beyonce, Hit-boy & Rey Reel

It takes a lot of guts to jump on a song that's already titled "Flawless." How do you dare attempt to improve on perfection? In this case, Nicki did it by turning almost the entire second half of the tune into a personal showcase. She starts off slow, with some ham-handed punchlines ("Like MJ's doctor, they killing me"). But she eventually moves into an extended section of double-time delivery that is both impressive in its own right, but also adds something substantial to the song's titular concept: "I'm with some flawless bitches 'cause they more than pretty/'Cause n***as love bad bitches who be on they grizzly." —Shawn Setaro — youtube.com

**Album:** *Beyoncé*

**Producer:** Beyonce, Hit-boy & Rey Reel

It takes a lot of guts to jump on a song that's already titled "Flawless." How do you dare attempt to improve on perfection? In this case, Nicki did it by turning almost the entire second half of the tune into a personal showcase. She starts off slow, with some ham-handed punchlines ("Like MJ's doctor, they killing me"). But she eventually moves into an extended section of double-time delivery that is both impressive in its own right, but also adds something substantial to the song's titular concept: "I'm with some flawless bitches 'cause they more than pretty/'Cause n***as love bad bitches who be on they grizzly." —*Shawn Setaro*

youtube.com

**Album:** *Beyoncé*

**Producer:** Beyonce, Hit-boy & Rey Reel

It takes a lot of guts to jump on a song that's already titled "Flawless." How do you dare attempt to improve on perfection? In this case, Nicki did it by turning almost the entire second half of the tune into a personal showcase. She starts off slow, with some ham-handed punchlines ("Like MJ's doctor, they killing me"). But she eventually moves into an extended section of double-time delivery that is both impressive in its own right, but also adds something substantial to the song's titular concept: "I'm with some flawless bitches 'cause they more than pretty/'Cause n***as love bad bitches who be on they grizzly." —*Shawn Setaro*

Album: Culture II

Producer: CuBeatz & MurdaBeatz

Nicki had the best verse on this song, hands down, with each line hitting heavier than the last. Despite dropping when the “Nicki Hate Train” was in full force, she was still killing verses and letting everyone know to stay in their places, watch their mouths, and watch their men. Nicki claps back at those who question her reigning status, reminding them just who flipped the rap game on its head: “You see them stats, you know what I am about/ I am the champ, I'm Iron Mike in a bout.” She sums it up best near the end: “Quavo the QB, I'm Nick Lombardi.” She’s a legend, the best to do it, and the orchestrator of this whole game. —Evan Lawson — youtube.com

**Album:** *Culture II*

**Producer:** CuBeatz & MurdaBeatz

Nicki had the best verse on this song, hands down, with each line hitting heavier than the last. Despite dropping when the “Nicki Hate Train” was in full force, she was still killing verses and letting everyone know to stay in their places, watch their mouths, and watch their men. Nicki claps back at those who question her reigning status, reminding them just who flipped the rap game on its head: “You see them stats, you know what I am about/ I am the champ, I'm Iron Mike in a bout.” She sums it up best near the end: “Quavo the QB, I'm Nick Lombardi.” She’s a legend, the best to do it, and the orchestrator of this whole game. —*Evan Lawson*

youtube.com

**Album:** *Culture II*

**Producer:** CuBeatz & MurdaBeatz

Nicki had the best verse on this song, hands down, with each line hitting heavier than the last. Despite dropping when the “Nicki Hate Train” was in full force, she was still killing verses and letting everyone know to stay in their places, watch their mouths, and watch their men. Nicki claps back at those who question her reigning status, reminding them just who flipped the rap game on its head: “You see them stats, you know what I am about/ I am the champ, I'm Iron Mike in a bout.” She sums it up best near the end: “Quavo the QB, I'm Nick Lombardi.” She’s a legend, the best to do it, and the orchestrator of this whole game. —*Evan Lawson*

Album: Thank Me Later

Producer: Boi-1da

The summer that Thank Me Later came out was the last summer before my friends and I all got jobs. One of our friends went to Europe with her family for a month, and while she was gone, three of us climbed onto her roof and blasted “Up All Night” from my iPod Touch on repeat. Central Connecticut at age 15 wasn’t exactly a vibe, but it became one when we laughed along with Nicki and asked the quiet, suburban neighborhood, “Fuck I look like, hoe?” —Carolyn Bernucca — youtube.com

**Album:** *Thank Me Later*

**Producer:** Boi-1da

The summer that *Thank Me Later* came out was the last summer before my friends and I all got jobs. One of our friends went to Europe with her family for a month, and while she was gone, three of us climbed onto her roof and blasted “Up All Night” from my iPod Touch on repeat. Central Connecticut at age 15 wasn’t exactly a vibe, but it became one when we laughed along with Nicki and asked the quiet, suburban neighborhood, “Fuck I look like, hoe?” —*Carolyn Bernucca*

youtube.com

**Album:** *Thank Me Later*

**Producer:** Boi-1da

The summer that *Thank Me Later* came out was the last summer before my friends and I all got jobs. One of our friends went to Europe with her family for a month, and while she was gone, three of us climbed onto her roof and blasted “Up All Night” from my iPod Touch on repeat. Central Connecticut at age 15 wasn’t exactly a vibe, but it became one when we laughed along with Nicki and asked the quiet, suburban neighborhood, “Fuck I look like, hoe?” —*Carolyn Bernucca*

Album: We Are Young Money

Producer: David Banner

2009’s We Are Young Money capitalized on the combined star power of multiple artists in a way that only YMCMB could. Nicki is arguably the strongest artist on the album, second only to Lil Wayne, and nowhere is it more evident than on “Streets Is Watchin’.” Nicki was made to rap over this David Banner instrumental, and when she did, it was hard. Knowing Nicki, I can’t be sure if, “Get ready to put your dimples in this duct tape” is supposed to be scary or kinky—I’m not mad either way. —Carolyn Bernucca — youtube.com

**Album:** *We Are Young Money*

**Producer:** David Banner

2009’s *We Are Young Money* capitalized on the combined star power of multiple artists in a way that only YMCMB could. Nicki is arguably the strongest artist on the album, second only to Lil Wayne, and nowhere is it more evident than on “Streets Is Watchin’.” Nicki was made to rap over this David Banner instrumental, and when she did, it was hard. Knowing Nicki, I can’t be sure if, “Get ready to put your dimples in this duct tape” is supposed to be scary or kinky—I’m not mad either way. —*Carolyn Bernucca*

youtube.com

**Album:** *We Are Young Money*

**Producer:** David Banner

2009’s *We Are Young Money* capitalized on the combined star power of multiple artists in a way that only YMCMB could. Nicki is arguably the strongest artist on the album, second only to Lil Wayne, and nowhere is it more evident than on “Streets Is Watchin’.” Nicki was made to rap over this David Banner instrumental, and when she did, it was hard. Knowing Nicki, I can’t be sure if, “Get ready to put your dimples in this duct tape” is supposed to be scary or kinky—I’m not mad either way. —*Carolyn Bernucca*

Album: N/A

Producer: Hot Rod

The remix to Yo Gotti's "5 Star" was Nicki Minaj's proper introduction to the mainstream. Before you get at me, she had definitely been peeking her head up with mixtapes, like the highly quotable Beam Me Up Scotty ("Itty Bitty Piggy," anyone?). But "5 Star" was Nicki's moment to climb from the shadows of the underground and prove that it was her time to reign. The bars themselves are low-hanging fruit—"Five, little mama, you a three-star / I ain't sleepin' when I say I'm in my dream car"—but she made them work with her turnt ass energy. Nicki's vocal theatrics have been the key factor that sets her apart from other MCs, be they male or female. Her appearance on the "5 Star" remix was just the warm up. —Kiana Fitzgerald — youtube.com

**Album:** N/A

**Producer:** Hot Rod

The remix to Yo Gotti's "5 Star" was Nicki Minaj's proper introduction to the mainstream. Before you get at me, she had definitely been peeking her head up with mixtapes, like the highly quotable *Beam Me Up Scotty* ("Itty Bitty Piggy," anyone?). But "5 Star" was Nicki's moment to climb from the shadows of the underground and prove that it was her time to reign. The bars themselves are low-hanging fruit—"Five, little mama, you a three-star / I ain't sleepin' when I say I'm in my dream car"—but she made them work with her turnt ass energy. Nicki's vocal theatrics have been the key factor that sets her apart from other MCs, be they male or female. Her appearance on the "5 Star" remix was just the warm up. —*Kiana Fitzgerald*

youtube.com

**Album:** N/A

**Producer:** Hot Rod

The remix to Yo Gotti's "5 Star" was Nicki Minaj's proper introduction to the mainstream. Before you get at me, she had definitely been peeking her head up with mixtapes, like the highly quotable *Beam Me Up Scotty* ("Itty Bitty Piggy," anyone?). But "5 Star" was Nicki's moment to climb from the shadows of the underground and prove that it was her time to reign. The bars themselves are low-hanging fruit—"Five, little mama, you a three-star / I ain't sleepin' when I say I'm in my dream car"—but she made them work with her turnt ass energy. Nicki's vocal theatrics have been the key factor that sets her apart from other MCs, be they male or female. Her appearance on the "5 Star" remix was just the warm up. —*Kiana Fitzgerald*

Album: Finally Famous

Producer: Da Internz

Nicki Minaj is perfect on a song like Big Sean’s “Dance (A$$)”—it was a no brainer for her to be on this remix. The flow is pristine over the bouncy production and the punchlines are so top tier that I almost forget it’s not even her song. Lines like, “Bitches ain’t poppin', Google my ass/ Only time you on the net is when you Google my ass” are so good it almost makes me cry. What a showing by Ms. Minaj. —Chopz — youtube.com

**Album:** *Finally Famous*

**Producer:** Da Internz

Nicki Minaj is perfect on a song like Big Sean’s “Dance (A$$)”—it was a no brainer for her to be on this remix. The flow is pristine over the bouncy production and the punchlines are so top tier that I almost forget it’s not even her song. Lines like, “Bitches ain’t poppin', Google my ass/ Only time you on the net is when you Google my ass” are so good it almost makes me cry. What a showing by Ms. Minaj. —*Chopz*

youtube.com

**Album:** *Finally Famous*

**Producer:** Da Internz

Nicki Minaj is perfect on a song like Big Sean’s “Dance (A$$)”—it was a no brainer for her to be on this remix. The flow is pristine over the bouncy production and the punchlines are so top tier that I almost forget it’s not even her song. Lines like, “Bitches ain’t poppin', Google my ass/ Only time you on the net is when you Google my ass” are so good it almost makes me cry. What a showing by Ms. Minaj. —*Chopz*

Album: Based on a T.R.U. Story

Producer: Marvel Hitz & YoungStarr Beatz

A big part of Nicki’s musical allure is her delivery, which often shifts octaves, tones, and sometimes personalities. But underneath all the flash and flare of her performance lies undeniable bars. That much is clear on this caramel-coated strip club anthem. Playing wingwoman to 2 Chainz as he talks that talk to the pole technicians, Nicki comes through and just bags the track with a few witty metaphors and punchlines of her own. “Take a ni**a bitch in a hot flash—menopause, hot flash/ Yes, that’s why I’m crowned queen, and I ain’t lookin’ for the prom king/ These hoes’ careers ain’t promising, killing these bitches—crime scene.” —Anslem Samuel Rocque — youtube.com

**Album:** *Based on a T.R.U. Story*

**Producer:** Marvel Hitz & YoungStarr Beatz

A big part of Nicki’s musical allure is her delivery, which often shifts octaves, tones, and sometimes personalities. But underneath all the flash and flare of her performance lies undeniable bars. That much is clear on this caramel-coated strip club anthem. Playing wingwoman to 2 Chainz as he talks that talk to the pole technicians, Nicki comes through and just bags the track with a few witty metaphors and punchlines of her own. “Take a ni**a bitch in a hot flash—menopause, hot flash/ Yes, that’s why I’m crowned queen, and I ain’t lookin’ for the prom king/ These hoes’ careers ain’t promising, killing these bitches—crime scene.” —*Anslem Samuel Rocque*

youtube.com

**Album:** *Based on a T.R.U. Story*

**Producer:** Marvel Hitz & YoungStarr Beatz

A big part of Nicki’s musical allure is her delivery, which often shifts octaves, tones, and sometimes personalities. But underneath all the flash and flare of her performance lies undeniable bars. That much is clear on this caramel-coated strip club anthem. Playing wingwoman to 2 Chainz as he talks that talk to the pole technicians, Nicki comes through and just bags the track with a few witty metaphors and punchlines of her own. “Take a ni**a bitch in a hot flash—menopause, hot flash/ Yes, that’s why I’m crowned queen, and I ain’t lookin’ for the prom king/ These hoes’ careers ain’t promising, killing these bitches—crime scene.” —*Anslem Samuel Rocque*

Album: Passion, Pain, & Pleasure

Producer: Kane Beatz

In the summer of 2010, Trey Songz's "Bottoms Up" was one of the reigning anthems. It's a song about splurging in the club and generally getting fucked up, so of course it rung off automatically. But most of the song's staying power can be attributed to Nicki Minaj, or more accurately, Nicki's alter-ego, the spaztastic Roman Zolanski. Nicki's half-comical, half-disturbing delivery on "Bottoms Up" begins iconically: "Could I get that 'Trón? Could I get that Remy? / Could I get that Coke? Could I get that Henny? / Could I get that margarita on the rock-rock-rocks? Could I get that salt all around that rim-rim-rim-rim?" Nicki turns an average person's indecisive thought process into a true performance. She stutters, coos, and yells her way through the verse, never quite settling on a particular approach—because she wants to be all over the place. Nicki's the only person who could rap about Jesus, booze, Haitian babies, and Anna Nicole Smith all at once and still have it all make sense. —Kiana Fitzgerald — youtube.com

**Album:** *Passion, Pain, & Pleasure*

**Producer:** Kane Beatz

In the summer of 2010, Trey Songz's "Bottoms Up" was one of the reigning anthems. It's a song about splurging in the club and generally getting fucked up, so of course it rung off automatically. But most of the song's staying power can be attributed to Nicki Minaj, or more accurately, Nicki's alter-ego, the spaztastic Roman Zolanski. Nicki's half-comical, half-disturbing delivery on "Bottoms Up" begins iconically: "Could I get that 'Trón? Could I get that Remy? / Could I get that Coke? Could I get that Henny? / Could I get that margarita on the rock-rock-rocks? Could I get that salt all around that rim-rim-rim-rim?" Nicki turns an average person's indecisive thought process into a true performance. She stutters, coos, and yells her way through the verse, never quite settling on a particular approach—because she wants to be all over the place. Nicki's the only person who could rap about Jesus, booze, Haitian babies, and Anna Nicole Smith all at once and still have it all make sense. —*Kiana Fitzgerald*

youtube.com

**Album:** *Passion, Pain, & Pleasure*

**Producer:** Kane Beatz

In the summer of 2010, Trey Songz's "Bottoms Up" was one of the reigning anthems. It's a song about splurging in the club and generally getting fucked up, so of course it rung off automatically. But most of the song's staying power can be attributed to Nicki Minaj, or more accurately, Nicki's alter-ego, the spaztastic Roman Zolanski. Nicki's half-comical, half-disturbing delivery on "Bottoms Up" begins iconically: "Could I get that 'Trón? Could I get that Remy? / Could I get that Coke? Could I get that Henny? / Could I get that margarita on the rock-rock-rocks? Could I get that salt all around that rim-rim-rim-rim?" Nicki turns an average person's indecisive thought process into a true performance. She stutters, coos, and yells her way through the verse, never quite settling on a particular approach—because she wants to be all over the place. Nicki's the only person who could rap about Jesus, booze, Haitian babies, and Anna Nicole Smith all at once and still have it all make sense. —*Kiana Fitzgerald*

Album: My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy

Producer: Kanye West, Mike Dean, Plain Pat

The anchor position is a critical role in any competition. Generally, the person holding down the final leg is regarded as the fastest or most experienced member of the lineup, someone deemed most capable of carrying everything all home. It’s akin to the concept of saving the best for last, and that’s exactly what happened on Kanye’s 2010 posse cut. Possessed by the spirit of competition, Nicki Minaj weaves in and out of characters like a motorcycle in traffic. It’s a high speed chase that leaves her capable co-pilots of ’Ye, Rick Ross, and Jay-Z decidedly in her rearview as she digs into the track like a rabid tasmanian devil. “Pull up in the monster, automobile gangsta/ With a bad bitch that came from Sri Lanka/ Yeah, I'm in that Tonka, color of Willy Wonka/ You could be the king but watch the queen conquer.” Conquer she did, delivering the best verse of her then-young career, and one that still stands up several years later. —Anslem Samuel Rocque — youtube.com

**Album:** *My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy*

**Producer:** Kanye West, Mike Dean, Plain Pat

The anchor position is a critical role in any competition. Generally, the person holding down the final leg is regarded as the fastest or most experienced member of the lineup, someone deemed most capable of carrying everything all home. It’s akin to the concept of saving the best for last, and that’s exactly what happened on Kanye’s 2010 posse cut. Possessed by the spirit of competition, Nicki Minaj weaves in and out of characters like a motorcycle in traffic. It’s a high speed chase that leaves her capable co-pilots of ’Ye, Rick Ross, and Jay-Z decidedly in her rearview as she digs into the track like a rabid tasmanian devil. “Pull up in the monster, automobile gangsta/ With a bad bitch that came from Sri Lanka/ Yeah, I'm in that Tonka, color of Willy Wonka/ You could be the king but watch the queen conquer.” Conquer she did, delivering the best verse of her then-young career, and one that still stands up several years later. —*Anslem Samuel Rocque*

youtube.com

**Album:** *My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy*

**Producer:** Kanye West, Mike Dean, Plain Pat

The anchor position is a critical role in any competition. Generally, the person holding down the final leg is regarded as the fastest or most experienced member of the lineup, someone deemed most capable of carrying everything all home. It’s akin to the concept of saving the best for last, and that’s exactly what happened on Kanye’s 2010 posse cut. Possessed by the spirit of competition, Nicki Minaj weaves in and out of characters like a motorcycle in traffic. It’s a high speed chase that leaves her capable co-pilots of ’Ye, Rick Ross, and Jay-Z decidedly in her rearview as she digs into the track like a rabid tasmanian devil. “Pull up in the monster, automobile gangsta/ With a bad bitch that came from Sri Lanka/ Yeah, I'm in that Tonka, color of Willy Wonka/ You could be the king but watch the queen conquer.” Conquer she did, delivering the best verse of her then-young career, and one that still stands up several years later. —*Anslem Samuel Rocque*

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The Best Nicki Minaj Features

20. Birdman f/ Nicki Minaj & Lil Wayne "Y U Mad" (2011)

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19. Ciara f/ Nicki Minaj "I'm Out" (2013)

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18. Ludacris f/ Nicki Minaj "My Chick Bad" (2010)

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17. Yo Gotti f/ Nicki Minaj "Rake It Up" (2017)

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16. Yo Gotti f/ Nicki Minaj "Down In The DM (Remix)" (2015)

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15. Trey Songz f/ Nicki Minaj "Touchin', Lovin'" (2014)

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14. Nelly f/ Nicki Minaj & Pharrell Williams "Get Like Me" (2013)

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13. Lil Wayne f/ Nicki Minaj "Knockout" (2009)

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12. Young Money f/ Lil Wayne, Tyga, & Nicki Minaj "Roger That" (2010)

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11. Lloyd f/ Nicki Minaj "Take It Off" (2009)

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10. Lil Wayne f/ Beyoncé & Nicki Minaj "Sweet Dreams" (2009)

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9. Beyoncé f/ Nicki Minaj "Flawless (Remix)" (2014)

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8. Migos f/ Cardi B & Nicki Minaj "MotorSport" (2017)

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7. Drake f/ Nicki Minaj "Up All Night" (2010)

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6. Young Money f/ Gudda Gudda, T-Streets, Jae Millz, Nicki Minaj, & Lil Wayne "Streets Is Watchin" (2010)

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5. Yo Gotti f/ Nicki Minaj & Gucci Mane "5 Star (Remix)" (2009)

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4. Big Sean f/ Nicki Minaj "Dance (A$$) Remix" (2011)

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3. 2 Chainz f/ Nicki Minaj "I Luv Dem Strippers" (2012)

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2. Trey Songz f/ Nicki Minaj "Bottoms Up" (2010)

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1. Kanye West f/ Bon Iver, Jay-Z, Nicki Minaj, & Rick Ross "Monster" (2010)

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