By Hardcore Critic
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer
Since the release of Pink Friday, fans have been eagerly anticipating the next album release from Nicki Minaj. Throughout the year of 2011, Nicki Minaj has been vague about her next album. Late in 2011, Nicki Minaj revealed she had a new album in the works, which would be called Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded. The first release from the new album was delivered in early December, “Roman In Moscow.”
The first single from Roman Reloaded was panned by critics, but Nicki Minaj regained a lot of respect with “Stupid Hoe,” which was an obvious dig aimed at Lil’ Kim. However, as more music was released from the album, it was clear Nicki Minaj was more focused on making pop music than hip hop. To that end, Nicki Minaj’s following, which already spans much bigger than hip hop, was highly pleased with her new music.
When Nicki Minaj revealed her album would contain 22 tracks, many felt the album was too long, as most rap albums usually deliver 12 to 15 tracks. The changes in Nicki Minaj’s style have left many disappointed, especially those who remembered her from her appearances on street DVDs freestyling. However, from the very beginning Nicki Minaj saw more for herself than being a rap star. Instead, Nicki Minaj viewed herself as a multitalented star, who can sing, rap, act, and attract large audiences of fans.
Everything Nicki Minaj set out to do happened and, for that, she deserves respect. Nicki Minaj had every intention of delivering a pop album to her fans. However, those who are still trying to categorize Nicki Minaj as a rapper and a rap artist will be highly disappointed in the new music, as Nicki Minaj has always had commercial appeal, easily navigating between signing and rapping. Nicki Minaj allowed all of her personalities to come to life on this new record, another turn-off for many hip hop fans, but Nicki Minaj cannot be classified as a “rapper” or a “hip hop artist.”
Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded is not a rap album, but does contain elements of rap. The hip hop fans who may be interested in picking up the album would love “Beez in The Trap,” which features 2 Chainz and, of course, “Stupid Hoe.” However, as previously stated, the album is more for the general audience than for the hip hop community, specifically. Due to this, Pink Friday: Roman Relaoded may not stand out as a notable rap/hip hop album. But, as far as great bodies of work, crediting creativity, it is one of the most-interesting albums released in years.
If judged as a rap album, rap and hip hop fans should not expect much from Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded, an otherwise good, solid, release.
Hip Hop Vibe’s Rating: 5/10
