The queen of rap is back. Actually, I should rather say that one of the many fabulous queens has returned. This time with two brand new singles: “Barbie Tingz” and “Chun-Li”. Both of which have been released in anticipation of her new studio album which, according to her interview with Zane Lowe on Apple Music, is going to be one to remember (I have had Minaj’s Chun-Li on repeat for days now).

The 35 year old rap goddess has hinted that the album has a lot to do with her love life, and I expect nothing less than a fabulous album from Minaj.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oCXvPWJClJg

For those who may not have already guessed, the tune and title for Minaj’s Chun-Li have been inspired by Capcom’s Street Fighter character of the same name. Unlike the Street Fighter character, however, Minaj’s version is far more risqué.

Judging from the official music video, which features the rapper in a PVC-clad outfit frolicking around a pink powder room, Minaj’s Chun-Li is definitely not the one from the 90s arcade classic. Interestingly, the video has been shot in “selfie-mode” with a series of clips sewn together to showcase Minaj flipping between different positions and cuts.

Since releasing her album “Pinkprint” in 2014, she has collaberated with a number of artists including Katy Perry and Ariana Grande. She has even worked together with ‘alleged nemesis’, Cardi B, on the hit single “Motorsport”.

I am a huge rap fan, especially female rap. I adore how the ladies can voice their opinions with no holds barred. Remember Lil’ Kim with her 1996 album “Hardcore”? It paved the way for female rap to embrace and express their feelings with words that would make anyone blush.

Nicki Minaj is a fantastic rap pioneer in her own right. With over 23 million followers on Spotify, she is definitely cemented in the world of rap and R&B music.

Minaj’s Chun-Li and Barbie Tingz are available now on Spotify, Apple Music and basically whatever streaming platform you happen to enjoy.

[Sources: HighsnobietyXXL Mag, YouTube (1), (2), (3)]