Nicki Minaj is one of the few artists that can claim to be the greatest rapper of all time. Some fans say 2pac, Biggie, or Eminem, while others argue Rakim, Jay-Z, or Nas. Indeed, there's a long list of talented artists that make that claim. However, Minaj is one of a handful of female artists considered the greatest. She had a significant breakthrough in 2010 with The Pinkprint and went on to release several classic albums. Minaj parlayed that fame into a movie career and more. She is known for her unique fashion sense and is one of the most influential celebs.
Minaj is on top of the world now, but it was a struggle getting up there. She had a rough childhood that continues to impact her life. Minaj is open and honest in her lyrics, but there is some stuff that Nicki would rather forget. It's time for a closer look at Nicki Minaj and her darkest secrets. Here is Nicki Minaj: 20 Secrets From Her Childhood She Wants To Keep Hidden.
20 Nicki Minaj Isn’t Her Real Name
There isn't a person in the world that doesn't know the name, Nicki Minaj. Well, it turns out that Nicki Minaj isn't her name. She was actually born Onika Tanya Maraj, but a producer forced her to have the stage name. She even admits to hating her name and fought the producer. She didn't like the stage name and just wanted to go by her real name.
In the end, she agreed to the name, but her family and close friends call her by her real name.
19 Might Be A Mom
Nicki Minaj likes to keep certain items out of the public eye. Of course, that leads to rumors spreading because she's so private. Indeed, for years, there's been speculation that Minaj gave birth when she was a teenager. The rumor suggests that the baby was given up for adoption. At the same time, others believe she is raising the child out of the public eye.
18 Father’s Problems
Nicki Minaj's father, Robert Maraj, struggled with substance abuse for most of his life. Minaj recalls growing up in an intense environment, surrounded by the problems between her parents. Indeed, she saw an ugly and dark side of her father. He often took out his anger on his wife in front of the kids. The traumatic feelings never left Minaj.
17 She Was Timid And Shy
Nicki Minaj has a fashion sense and personality all her own. She can be blunt and offensive at times. However, there was a time in her life when Minaj wasn't like that at all. Indeed, there was a time when she was timid and shy. Her former manager recalls Minaj crying and feeling insecure. She's now one of the most famous stars in the world.
16 Not A Strict Household
Nicki Minaj was born in Trinidad and Tobago but came to the Bronx as a child. Minaj admits that her mother wasn't tough, and she didn't grow up in a strict household. There's even a part of her that wishes her mother was strict. Minaj feels she would have benefited from the structure.
15 Fear Of Heights
It's safe to say that Nicki Minaj isn't scared of a thing. Indeed, she takes on her enemies and never backs down. Nicki's determined to be the best and never gives up. She truly is fearless. Well, unless it involved heights. Yes, the fearless Minaj isn't afraid to get into a brawl but is terrified of heights.
14 Lived With Grandmother In Saint James
Nicki's parents couldn't make the relationship work, and her mother moved to the U.S. At first, Minaj stayed behind with her grandmother. Indeed, Minaj continued to live in Saint James for a lot longer before her mother reached out. She finally came to the U.S., and her life was never the same.
13 Bookworm
Nicki Minaj has a particular image she needs to uphold. She gives off the impression she came from the streets, but that's not the case. Minaj had a tough childhood that molded her into who Nicki is now. However, she did have time to enjoy the simpler things in life. For instance, she is quite the bookworm and has enjoyed reading since a very young age.
12 15 Different Alter Egos To Deal With Life
Nicki Minaj is just one of the many characters she created. Indeed, she's been creating alter egos her entire life. As a child, she created various egos to deal with her traumatic home life. The problems between her parents made her fantasy a reality. She created many characters, including Rosa, Nicole, and Cookie.
11 Discovered Meryl Streep In Art School
As noted, Nicki Minaj needs her image to be a certain way. She needs people to believe she came from the mean streets. Of course, Nicki found time to attend Fiorello H. La Guardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts. She always knew she wanted to act or rap. While in art school, she discovered Meryl Streep and became obsessed. It's easy to see Streep's influence.
