While Nicki Minaj has been ensconced within several more "gossipy" narratives of late, we cannot forget that she has essentially mastered her craft. Lyrically, few can dispute Minaj's pen game; as she frequently points out on Queen, she does it fact write her own bars. The iconic rapper recently sat down with Genius' Rob Markman for an extensive conversation, where she broke down some interesting insight into her creative process. Though much was said throughout the interview, why not take a minute to step inside the mind of a lyrically inclined artist?
"I have written a song in my head in the shower," admits Nicki, citing "singing songs" as something she tends to freestyle. "In terms of lyrics, I switched the approach to doing a reference type of mumble track on the beat. Whatever I do the first time is usually the dopest flow. I like to keep that flow and then add words. I find it's confining to write in the studio." She admits that sometimes a change of scenery can help with the writing process, before reminding fans that "the essence of rap is fun." Clearly, Nicki knows her way around hip-hop history.
Extensive, to be sure, yet at once educational and entertaining. Nicki fans would do well to give this one a listen. Peep the discourse below.