I want to start this article by stating that I believe both Nicki Minaj and Lil Kim are incredibly talented and have made a major impact on the world. Both female rappers, have went on to not only influence music, but, also fashion and way of life.
Most people that I have discussed this topic with say things such as, “Lil Kim is washed up,” “She’s to old,”and my personal favorite “Nicki Minaj has the better brand,” some of these things you may see as ridiculous or maybe you agree, but, unfortunately I don’t agree.
Lil Kim is a pillar in the Hip Hop community, especially for female rappers, she was one of the first female rappers to win a Grammy, so, with that said being said, she is owed much respect. Lil Kim’s presence in the Hip Hop community has paved the way for many female rappers and has influenced the way they choose to market themselves in the media.
When Nicki Minaj first hit the scene she was very humble and hungry trying to earn her place within this competitive culture, it was then that Hip Hop mogul “Lil Wayne,” took notice and signed her. After the signing, her rise to fame came very quickly, and her brand went from hood chick to sex symbol in a matter of tracks. What’s the problem with that? Her image became more and more like a imitation of Lil Kim and less original.
So shouldn’t Kim feel flattered not upset?
No. In a interview Nicki Minaj was asked about the title of being called Queen and did she understand she was replacing Kim by calling herself that, she then responded saying that she felt that “if anyone is fit for the throne to wear those shoes it’s me.” That comment probably is the spark of this feud between the two rappers if you ask me. By making that statement she basically was ending Kim’s reign for her and not allowing her the “Original Queen,” to pass the torch down to her.
That’s like walking in someone’s house and taking their TV!Some things must be asked for or given. Lil Kim feeling disrespected is not outrageous nor is it foolish, especially when you have put in as much work as she has for this culture. You do not simply take someone’s crown you wait for it to be bestowed upon you.
Nicki Minaj has imitated Lil Kim in her way of dress and how she chooses to go about her brand as a musician.
You can say well Lil Kim wasn’t relevant so her feeling a way about the comment is just her trying to find a reason to get her name back up. In saying that you would be depreciating the value of her work and legacy.
Jay Z has been in the game a very long time and during this career has took many hiatuses and has left the “King of New York,” title open for debate. Jay Z has feuded with Ny rappers like, Jim Jones and 50 cent, over who runs New York, I see no one calling him to old or childish because his legacy is, so well respected.
Rappers such as Canibus and LL Cool J have also had fallen outs when it came to the newcomer trying to claim rights to a lame they have yet to earn.
Has Nicki Minaj earned her stripes? Not quite.Is what she’s done enough to claim rights to a throne that’s not vacant,yet? Maybe or maybe not. Regardless of the answer someone trying to protect their legacy should never be a ridiculous act.
Lil Kim,is not the same artist we knew back when she was hanging with, Junior Mafia, but that does not mean that she should be replaced because there is a new face being spoke about. Legacies are earned and worked for and Nicki Minaj will be legendary but the validation of her work has yet to come into play still being an artist to not win a Grammy yet.
If she wants top spot she must fight for it not just claim rights to it because she’s the only one around. This feud is meaningful and I believe healthy it’s a good thing when Hip Hop has feuds it brings the competitor out of artist and helps them create their best work. Let the games continue!
