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Nicki Minaj

Nicki Minaj is the stage name of Onika Tanya Maraj-Petty, a Trinidadian-born rapper, singer, and songwriter.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Nicki Minaj, born Onika Tanya Maraj-Petty on December 8, 1982, in Saint James, Trinidad and Tobago, is a rapper, singer, and songwriter known for her rapid-fire delivery, alter egos, and major commercial success in hip-hop and pop music. She has a large following in Canada, where her music has been widely played on radio and she has toured extensively.

Early life and background

Nicki Minaj was born in Saint James, Trinidad and Tobago, and later became based in the United States. Her birth name is Onika Tanya Maraj, and she is of Trinidadian origin.

Music career

Minaj became known for her rap style, versatility, and work in hip-hop and pop. She has released major singles and is widely recognized as one of the most prominent female rappers of her era.

Personal life

Minaj married Kenneth Petty in 2019. Public biographies identify one child, a son referred to as Papa Bear, born in 2020.

Public image and influence

She is frequently described as influential in popular music and known for alter egos, animated delivery, and a distinctive visual style. Some sources refer to her as the "Queen of Rap" or "Queen of Hip-Hop".

Key facts

  • Nicki Minaj was born Onika Tanya Maraj on December 8, 1982, in Saint James, Trinidad and Tobago.
  • She is known for her rapid-fire rap style, alter egos, and major commercial success in hip-hop and pop.
  • She married Kenneth Petty in 2019 and has one son, Papa Bear, born in 2020.
  • She is considered one of the most prominent female rappers of her era.
  • Her music has a significant audience in Canada through radio play and touring.
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Canadian context

Nicki Minaj has had a major audience in Canada through mainstream hip-hop, pop radio, touring, and collaborations with Canadian artists and listeners.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Nicki Minaj?
Nicki Minaj is the stage name of Onika Tanya Maraj-Petty, a Trinidadian-born rapper, singer, and songwriter.
What are Nicki Minaj songs?
Well-known Nicki Minaj songs include "Super Bass," "Starships," "Anaconda," "Bang Bang" (with Jessie J and Ariana Grande), and "Chun-Li."
What is Nicki Minaj's net worth?
A reliable, consistently updated net worth figure was not provided in the available sources. Public estimates vary by outlet and should be treated cautiously.
Who is Nicki Minaj's husband?
Nicki Minaj's husband is Kenneth Petty; the couple married in 2019.
How old is Nicki Minaj?
She was born on December 8, 1982, which makes her 43 years old as of 2026.
Does Nicki Minaj have children?
Yes. Public biographies identify one child, a son commonly referred to as Papa Bear, born in 2020.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicki_Minaj
    Supports: Birth name, birth date, birthplace, spouse, children, and basic biography.
  2. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/biography/Nicki-Minaj
    Supports: Biographical overview, birth date, birthplace, nationality, and professional description.
  3. TeachRock — https://teachrock.org/traceitback/nicki-minaj/
    Supports: Birth name, birthplace, career background, and record-related context.
  4. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3747326/bio/
    Supports: Birth name, spouse, and child reference.
  5. Nicki Minaj Wiki (Fandom) — https://nickiminaj.fandom.com/wiki/Nicki_Minaj
    Supports: General career descriptors and public image details; less authoritative than Britannica.