Nicki Minaj, born Onika Tanya Maraj-Petty on December 8, 1982, in Saint James, Trinidad and Tobago, is a Trinidadian-born rapper, singer, and songwriter. She moved to Queens, New York, at the age of five. Renowned for her dynamic rap flow and provocative lyrics, Minaj gained prominence with hits like “Super Bass” and “Anaconda,” becoming a significant figure in hip-hop.
Quick Bio
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Onika Tanya Maraj-Petty |
| Stage Name | Nicki Minaj |
| Date of Birth | December 8, 1982 |
| Age | 42 years (as of 2025) |
| Height | 5 feet 2 inches (157 cm) |
| Nationality | Trinidadian-American |
| Net Worth | $150 million (as of 2025) |
| Genre | Hip-hop, Rap, Pop |
| Debut Album | Pink Friday (2010) |
| Notable Songs | “Super Bass”, “Anaconda”, “Starships”, “Bang Bang” |
| Awards | 6 American Music Awards, 10 BET Awards, 4 Billboard Music Awards |
| Business Ventures | Fashion lines, fragrance products |
| Alter Egos | Harajuku Barbie, Roman Zolanski |
| Family | Married to Kenneth Petty, has a son (born 2020) |
| Social Media | Active on Instagram, Twitter |
Early Life and Background
Nicki Minaj, born Onika Tanya Maraj on December 8, 1982, in Saint James, Trinidad and Tobago, moved to Queens, New York, with her family at the age of five. Her early years were shaped by her Caribbean roots and the vibrant cultural environment of New York City.
Her father, Robert Maraj, worked as a financial executive and part-time gospel singer but faced struggles with substance abuse, creating challenges for the family. Minaj’s mother, Carol Maraj, was also a gospel singer and played a vital role in supporting the family during difficult times.
Despite these hardships, Minaj demonstrated a passion for performing arts from a young age. She attended Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts, where she studied acting and honed her skills, setting the stage for her future career in music and entertainment.
Career Milestones
Minaj’s musical journey began with the release of her mixtapes “Playtime Is Over” (2007), “Sucka Free” (2008), and “Beam Me Up Scotty” (2009). These projects garnered attention and led to her signing with Young Money Entertainment in 2009. Her debut studio album, “Pink Friday” (2010), achieved critical acclaim and commercial success, featuring the hit single “Super Bass.”
Throughout her career, Minaj has released several successful albums, including “Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded” (2012), “The Pinkprint” (2014), and “Queen” (2018). She has collaborated with numerous artists across various genres, further cementing her versatility and influence in the music industry.
Physical Attributes
- Height: 5 feet 2 inches (157 cm).
- Weight: Approximately 62 kilograms (137 pounds).
- Body Measurements:
- Bust: 40 inches (102 cm).
- Waist: 28 inches (71 cm).
- Hips: 45 inches (114 cm).
- Bra Size: 34B.
- Shoe Size: 7 (US).
- Dress Size: 12 (US).
- Hair Color: Naturally black, though she frequently wears wigs of various colors.
- Eye Color: Dark brown.
These features contribute to her dynamic stage presence and unique personal style.
Please note that physical attributes can change over time, and the figures provided are based on available information.
Net Worth and Financial Ventures
As of 2025, Nicki Minaj’s net worth is estimated to be approximately $150 million. (Source: Celebrity Net Worth)
Source of Income
Music Sales and Streaming: Minaj’s successful albums and singles have sold millions of copies worldwide, contributing significantly to her wealth.
Concert Tours: Her global tours, known for high-energy performances, have generated substantial revenue.
Endorsements and Partnerships: Minaj has collaborated with brands like MAC Cosmetics, Pepsi, and Fendi, enhancing her income through lucrative deals.
Business Ventures: She has launched products such as her own fragrance line and invested in various business ventures, diversifying her income streams.
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Personal Life
She married her childhood friend, Kenneth Petty, in October 2019. The couple welcomed their first child, a son affectionately known as “Papa Bear,” on September 30, 2020.
In recent years, Minaj has openly discussed the profound impact of motherhood on her life and career. She has expressed that becoming a mother has brought new meaning to her life, enhancing her creativity and influencing her artistic direction.
However, her personal life has faced challenges. In June 2024, Minaj sparked concern among fans after posting a peculiar video discussing her experiences with motherhood, leading to speculations about potential marital issues. Additionally, in January 2025, she was sued by her former tour manager, Brandon Garrett, for alleged assault and battery during an incident backstage in April 2024. Minaj’s attorney has denied these allegations, calling them false and frivolous. (Source: Page Six & People.com)
Despite these personal challenges, Minaj continues to be a prominent figure in the music industry, balancing her professional endeavors with her roles as a wife and mother.
Recent Developments
In January 2025, Minaj faced legal challenges when she was sued for assault by a former employee. The lawsuit alleges that Minaj attacked the individual backstage during a tour.
Conclusion
Nicki Minaj’s journey from a young aspiring artist to a global music icon exemplifies her resilience, talent, and adaptability. Her contributions to music, fashion, and culture have left an indelible mark, and she continues to influence and inspire artists and fans worldwide.
FAQs
What is Nicki Minaj’s real name?
Nicki Minaj’s real name is Onika Tanya Maraj-Petty.
2. How old is Nicki Minaj?
Nicki Minaj was born on December 8, 1982, making her 42 years old as of January 2025.
3. What is Nicki Minaj’s height?
Nicki Minaj is approximately 5 feet 2 inches (1.57 meters) tall.
4. What is Nicki Minaj’s net worth?
As of 2025, Nicki Minaj’s net worth is estimated at $150 million.
5. What are some of Nicki Minaj’s most popular songs?
Some of Nicki Minaj’s most popular songs include “Super Bass,” “Anaconda,” “Starships,” and “Bang Bang.”
6. Has Nicki Minaj won any awards?
Yes, Nicki Minaj has won numerous awards, including six American Music Awards, 10 BET Awards, and four Billboard Music Awards.
7. What is Nicki Minaj’s alter ego?
Nicki Minaj has several alter egos, including Harajuku Barbie and Roman Zolanski.
8. Is Nicki Minaj active on social media?
Yes, Nicki Minaj is active on various social media platforms, including Instagram and Twitter, where she engages with her fans and shares updates.
9. What is Nicki Minaj’s fashion style?
Nicki Minaj is known for her bold and eclectic fashion choices, often incorporating vibrant colors, unique accessories, and avant-garde designs into her wardrobe.
10. What philanthropic efforts has Nicki Minaj been involved in?
Nicki Minaj has been involved in various philanthropic efforts, including supporting education initiatives and disaster relief efforts.