Nicki Minaj’s 2012 hit “Starships” just hit a major milestone, earning her another Diamond plaque from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
On November 18, the catchy track reached a staggering 10 million sales in the United States. But this isn’t Minaj’s first time at the Diamond rodeo. Her 2010 banger “Super Bass” snagged a Diamond status in 2021, followed by her feature on Jessie J’s “Bang Bang” earlier this year.
While “Starships” soared to No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and captured the hearts of many, Nicki has had mixed feelings about it. Back in 2012, a notorious summer spat with Hot97’s Peter Rosenberg over his criticism of the song got her riled up. Minaj admitted that she hated “Starships” too, even choosing not to perform it at a Miami event earlier this year.
When her DJ slipped it into the playlist that night, Minaj mockingly stopped the track, humorously telling the crowd, “Sike, sike, sike. I don’t perform that song no more, y’all! I don’t like it! What y’all want me to do?” Her playful defiance proved a point — despite the accolades, some songs just don’t hold a special place in their creator’s heart.
During a 2020 Q&A, Nicki went further, expressing regrets about recording “Starships” alongside her 2014 hit “Anaconda.” She candidly mused, “Why did I do that? I really think that every time I hear it.” Forget what critics said; it turns out that artists are their own biggest critics.
However, the beef with Rosenberg was ultimately squashed, showing that time can heal even the sharpest of feuds. Despite the rollercoaster of feelings, “Starships” remains an iconic bop with a Diamond seal to match.
Nicki Minaj might not love “Starships,” but its success is undeniable. After all, a Diamond certification is not just a reflection of sales; it’s a testament to the song’s lasting impact.
