Nicki Minaj, the immensely successful rapper, was recently honored with the prestigious MTV VMA Video Vanguard Award, a recognition previously bestowed upon iconic artists like David Bowie, the Beatles, Tom Petty, Madonna, Janet Jackson, Britney Spears, Beyoncé, Rihanna, and Pink. In a heartfelt gesture, music power couple Beyoncé and Jay-Z took a moment to extend their congratulations to their fellow artist.
Nicki Minaj shared a video on her Instagram account, revealing a stunning arrangement of cream-colored roses sent to her by the Carters. Accompanying the beautiful flowers was a note expressing their heartfelt sentiments. “Congrats on your beautiful award,” the note read. “Sending you all of our love.”
Expressing her appreciation, Nicki responded on Instagram, saying, “Thank you so much to both of you. For everything.” The rapper had previously mentioned Beyoncé and Jay-Z during her VMA acceptance speech, recognizing them as sources of inspiration for her artistic journey.
“Thank you to all the people who inspired me and who I think inspired my flow,” Nicki remarked during the VMA stage. “The people who gave me huge opportunities that I’ll never forget, Kanye West, Beyoncé, Madonna, Mariah Carey, Eminem, Britney Spears, Rihanna,” she continued.
Nicki Minaj’s acceptance speech also paid tribute to iconic musicians and personal idols throughout her career, with a poignant mention of Whitney Houston and Michael Jackson. She expressed a wish for more understanding of the mental health struggles these music legends faced and advocated for a serious consideration of mental health issues, even among those who may seem to have perfect lives.