Ranking Every Song on ‘Pink Friday 2’ by ‘Nicki Minaj’

Featuring: J. Cole, Lil Wayne, Tate Kobang, Drake, Lourdiz, Lil Uzi Vert, Skillibeng, Skeng, Future, Tasha Cobbs Leonard, 50 Cent, Monica, Keyshia Cole

In the expansive and unapologetically audacious world of hip-hop, few stars blaze brighter than Onika Tanya Maraj, more deftly known as the inimitable Nicki Minaj. The Queens-bred lyricist’s discography is a testament to her undeniable prowess and versatility, from spitfire bars to soothing melodies.

Her December 2023 released lyrical labor of love, “Pink Friday 2,” is a testament to her artistic evolution. This album enlists an envious lineup of collaborators, including J. Cole, Lil Wayne, Drake, and even the melodic Monica & Keyshia Cole, magnifying its sonic richness. With tracks like “Are You Gone Already” to “Love Me Enough,” Minaj is unreservedly raw, weaving narratives vibrant with emotional truth and cultural relevance.

Perhaps the biggest draw of this lyrical odyssey is its introspective beats layered with Minaj’s signature braggadocious style, offering listeners an immersive dive into her audacious artistry. This exemplary work is a vibrant concoction of fiery bars, catchy bops, and soulful narratives that traverse a wide range of emotions and experiences.

So let’s get into it. From “Are You Gone Already” to “Love Me Enough,” here our fans rate every song on ‘Pink Friday 2’ by Nicki Minaj.

Nicki’s lyrical prowess is apparent, playfully twisting words into innuendos while exhibiting her mastery of metaphor. She establishes her superiority early with lines about surviving pressure and climbing to the top, solidifying her self-proclaimed position as the ‘baddest alive.’ The frequent references to her sexuality, stating how she leans into her own desires and maintains control in her relationships, showcases classic Nicki: unabashed, direct, and unshakeably confident. With references to other significant figures in music (like Master P, Rocky A$AP, and Rih’) she cleverly accentuates her status and influence in the hip-hop domain. “Super Freaky Girl” is more than a track; it’s a testament to Nicki’s lasting foothold in the game, her unique blend of audacity, wit, and unshakeable self-belief.

It’s an audacious anthem, woven with references to her royal status in the rap world, hinted at in the phrase, “Queen.” Nicki takes jabs at her detractors, referring to them as “wannabe Chun-Li’s,” alluding to her 2018 hit single where she positioned herself as the unbeatable street fighter. The lyric “700 on the horses, when we fixin’ to leave” is a subtle brag about her expensive wheels, further emphasizing her success. She seamlessly mixes in some Chinese, displaying a multicultural edge to her artistry. Her verses also contain violent imagery, all part of the power play that’s inherent in her brand of hip-hop. The song is even more aggressive, coupled with threats and warnings to her adversaries, showing the fearless and super-confident side of Nicki that her fans have come to love.

She’s flexin’ on ’em, throwing her weight around, lettin’ everybody know that she’s got the juice, and ain’t nobody can take that from her. She speaks directly to her prowess, her influence, and most importantly, the bread she’s making. Ain’t no lying in her game – Spotify can vouch for the streams, the fans can vouch for the vibes. She makes it clear she ain’t just playing around; she’s building and flexing an empire, setting herself apart from the crowd. “FTCU” isn’t just a club track – it’s the Queen staking her claim in this game, marking her turf with an authoritative declaration that can’t be ignored.

The lyrics reveal a deeply emotional and personal narrative, encapsulating the yearning for a lost relationship and the regret over wasted opportunities. Minaj delves into the emotional wreckage left behind when love turns sour, confronting her own shortcomings and the part she played in the relationship’s downfall. The meticulously crafted lyrics paint a vivid picture of longing and remorse, displaying Minaj’s impeccable storytelling ability. This track is a stark departure from her usual audacious, boss-lady persona, proving her versatility as an artist. The recurring line “I wish I’d have hugged you tighter the last time that I saw you” serves as an emotional anchor, resonating with listeners who’ve experienced loss. Minaj’s piercing vulnerability on this track makes it a standout on “Pink Friday 2”.

The song, loaded with a heavy dose of rhythmic repetition, boldly emphasizes Nicki’s autonomous power. She makes it clear that she’s not looking to be “everybody,” rather she’s focused on exceeding beyond the mold. The lyrics reflect a steadfast refusal to compromise or fit into a pre-existing archetype, and instead, thrives on the great distinctiveness of her persona. Lil Uzi Vert’s verse, in contrast, focuses on jealousy and desires, adding another layer to the overall narrative. Yet, the key message remains intact: independence and self-assuredness in the face of societal pressure. The track is an unabashed celebration of individuality, with Nicki Minaj and Lil Uzi Vert, two of the most distinct voices in hip-hop, explicitly rejecting the idea of being just like “everybody” else.

Channeling the spirit of Biggie Smalls, she makes it clear that she’s the queen and everyone else is playing catch-up. The lyrics are a potent mix of swagger and self-assuredness, taking jabs at her detractors while unapologetically celebrating her success. Minaj asserts herself as fashion’s favorite muse, dismissing potential opponents as weak, out-of-range contenders who can’t match her prowess. Beyond the glitz and glamor, there’s a palpable sense of gritty determination. Still dreamin’ while they’re jackin’, Nicki continues to pray and proves that her solitude is indeed appreciated. In characteristic Nicki fashion, she dismisses any talk of beef, describing it as her worst nightmare. There’s a duality here – a simultaneous depiction of her battle-hardened resilience and her supremacy in the industry. The song is an anthem of triumph – of Minaj asserting her reign over the rap kingdom while defying all challenges and odds.

A mesmerizing testament to Nicki Minaj’s lyrical prowess and her enduring partnership with Drake. The song’s lyrics offer a heavy dose of Nicki’s signature sass and confidence, painting a picture of a woman who’s immune to the weight of adversity, symbolized in the lines, “If these diamonds in my head can’t weigh me down now, What makes you think you could weigh me down?” With razor-sharp charisma, she stands defiant against doubters and naysayers, embodying the grind from “immigrant to a boss”. Drake’s feature collaborates seamlessly with her narrative, intensifying the braggadocious vibes, while tactfully addressing his own reputation as the occasionally shy guy. The track’s lyrics, imbued with undeniable swagger, create a resonating anthem of self-assuredness and resilience, further sealing Nicki’s reputation as an irrepressible titan in the hip-hop universe.

In this introspective cut from her ‘Pink Friday 2′ album, Nicki oscillates between grief, regret, and resignation. The lyrics hint at a deeply personal loss, possibly alluding to the passing of her father. The line “Telephone ring/He didn’t make it” strikes the listener with the rawness of sudden bereavement. The questioning tone in “Are you gone already?” reflects a sense of disbelief. The track further delves into the pain of solace with “Quiet when I’m comin’ home and I’m on my own”, signaling the artist’s struggle with loneliness and longing. Nicki also brings forth the complexities of self-worth and happiness in the face of success, with the line “Rich, yes, but are you happy?” Overall, “Are You Gone Already” is a poignant reflection of Nicki’s emotional depth and artistry.

The lyrics reveal a story where Nicki is neither shy nor reluctant to flex her power, whether it’s on the street or in the industry. She’s purchasing flashy cars, busting open bottles in clubs, orchestrating heists, and laying emcees to waste in broad daylight. This track shows us Nicki at her most ruthless, unashamed of her hard-earned wealth and status, but equally unafraid to call out the fakers and the frauds. The use of short, sharp questions that punctuate the verses creates a confrontational tone that’s as provocative as it is compelling. And through it all, Nicki’s lyrical prowess shines, combining braggadocio, biting humor, and vivid storytelling to show why she’s considered one of hip-hop’s greatest. “Beep Beep” is a stark reminder—underestimate Nicki Minaj at your peril.

We see a more vulnerable side of the Queen of Rap as she explores the complexities of attraction and apprehension. Striking a balance between her fierce and emotionally unrestrained persona (“Told him shoot his shot like his main opp”), and her more introspective side (“Thinking ’bout you lately, JoJo and K-Ci”), Minaj unleashes her lyrical prowess in “Fallin 4 U”. Visually, Minaj invites listeners into her glamorous world, using the signature Minaj charisma to paint vivacious imagery and showcase her spot in the hip-hop monarchy with the line, “Bitch, I’m the Pinkprint, tell him to kiss the pink ring”.

J. Cole team up to drop a serious banger. Less bar-heavy than some other cuts on ‘Pink Friday 2’, this track sees the Queen of Rap in her confessional mode. Minaj’s lines paint the complexity of a love-hate relationship, oscillating between her affections and frustrations. Lyrics about maintaining personal space even in an intimate relationship resonate like a cool breeze, showing that even rap royalty need some alone time to decompress. J. Cole’s verse, on the other hand, peels back layers with lyrics about dealing with a strong, independent woman and the challenges that come with it. His words touch on everything—from the emotional toll of loving someone with unresolved internal trauma to standing by your partner against the world’s judgment. This introspective song is a testament to Minaj’s and Cole’s rhyming prowess and emotional depth, reminding us why these two are still high up in the hip-hop Olympus.

Drawing upon her Caribbean heritage and New York upbringing, Minaj employs a controlled aggression, asserting a ferocity that bleeds through her bars – a signature trait that’s made her the reigning queen of hip-hop. Laying claim to her autonomy and sexual prowess, she blends unapologetic raps about love and loyalty with more braggadocious lines about her power and dominance. On the other hand, Wayne’s intro and outro tie the track together, echoing the theme of grit and intimacy that Minaj sets. Kobang brings a contrastive grittiness to the track, providing a dosage of raw street authenticity. In short, “RNB” is a potent cocktail of sensuality, assertiveness, and street savvy charisma, encapsulating the very essence of hip-hop.

Through the lens of this fast-paced banger, she’s schooling the game on the stark contrast between her status and that of the rest. Minaj flexes her royal status, affirming that she stands alone in her league – a sentiment echoed in her lyrics. There’s a sense of assertive self-confidence throughout the track where Minaj not only showcases her rap prowess but also calls out the fake ones in the industry. A noteworthy theme of individuality is prevalent, she reiterates how she doesn’t conform to stereotypes, setting her apart in a crowd. The repetition of “big difference between me and you” underlines her unmatched persona, and she’s not afraid to state it outright. The lyrics serve as a reminder of her continued influence and undoubted supremacy in the rap scenes. Overall, “Big Difference” signifies Minaj’s unabashed dominance, compelling listeners to appreciate the Queen’s reign in hip-hop.

Minaj embodies an unapologetic assertiveness that we’ve come to expect from her, blending her extravagant lifestyle with a straight-shooting Western theme that pays homage to the swagger of 90s hip-hop. The Harajuku Barbie stylistically straddles the boundary between the braggadocio of Biggie and the playful raunchiness of Lil’ Kim, throwing shots at her competition while projecting a powerful sexual aura. Her lyrics dance between luxury fashion references, sexual innuendos, and rambunctious gun talk, validating her prowess not only in the bedroom but also in the cutthroat world of hip-hop. Minaj conveys the complexity of her identity – she is a cowgirl riding the bull, a diva in C. Dior, the dream girl who every man desires yet can’t tame. The song is sassy, bouncy and unfiltered – quintessential Nicki – let’s dissect it further.

Teaming up with dancehall artists Skillibeng and Skeng, Minaj serves up a lyrical feast that’s jam-packed with raw, unfiltered expressions of self-assured femininity and power. The track’s verse structure oscillates between braggadocious lines and vivid expressions of both physical beauty and womanly wit, effectively capturing Minaj’s potent persona. The lyrical fusion of her tough New York upbringing and her Caribbean heritage creates a unique blend that underscores her versatility as an artist. The song’s narrative paints a picture of a woman who’s unapologetically proud of her roots and isn’t afraid to wield her sexuality as one of her many weapons. From its dancehall-infused beat to its provocative lyricism, “Forward From Trini” is a testament to Minaj’s ability to continually push the boundaries of what it means to be a femcee in the world of hip-hop.

Nicki injects her verses with clever wordplay and double entendres, maintaining her provocative irreverence in the lyrics. It’s a sexy anthem that plays around with the theme of birthdays and treats, using it as a metaphor for relations and power dynamics. As per usual, she subverts the expectations, maintaining control and demeanor even when letting loose. The song also works as an homage to her Pink Friday brand, celebrating her established identity in the hip-hop universe. The hook is catchy, the beat infectious, and Nicki’s delivery is drenched with confidence and flair. “Pink Birthday” showcases her versatility as a lyricist, affirming her ability to inject captivating narratives within club-ready anthems.

As a staple of Minaj’s style, she creatively flexes her lyrical prowess, traversing through themes of female empowerment, individuality, and resilience in the hip-hop world dominated by men. The song’s narrative embodies Nicki’s chameleon-like versatility, deftly moving from a playful homage to Cyndi Lauper’s “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” to an unapologetic assertion of her own dominion in the rap game. The lyrical content inhabits an interesting duality of a daughter’s innocent defiance against her father’s concerns and a powerful, independent woman justifying her hard-earned success. The addictive hooks, combined with brazen and audacious lyrics, further underscore Nicki’s unabashed persona, and her refusal to conform to industry standards or anyone’s expectations but her own.

The track draws its strength from the unfettered audacity we’ve come to associate with the Queen of Rap. From the get-go, she’s staking her claim, flexing her lyrical prowess, and pushing back at anyone who dares question her reign. The use of “bahm, bahm” as ad-libs underscores her statements with emphatic resonance, like truth bombs exploding to punctuate her words. The lyrics delve into themes of confidence, dominance, and the art of hustling, true to Nicki’s brand. She speaks of sticking to her terms in relation – ever the boss – and hints at her indisputable supremacy in the rap game. Lastly, the refrain about her ‘price’ shows her unapologetic self-worth, stressing to the world her inherent value and invaluable contributions to hip-hop.

The track’s lyrics convey a woman grappling with shifting loyalties in the ruthless game of hip-hop, capturing the bittersweet crucible of her ascent to the throne. She cautions about the treachery masked by the glamour and success in lines like “Who real or fake, sorry, baby, I don’t know” and “They don’t know me but they always judgin’ my life,” echoing the melancholy that sometimes accompanies the crown. Yet, Nicki also flaunts her dominance, reminding critics that her success is no fluke but the result of hard work and audacious talent. “My Life” hears Minaj oscillating between vulnerability and power, delivering a powerful narrative about being a woman in the high-stakes, high-rewards world of hip-hop.

Rooted in lo-fi beats and melodic raps, this tune delves into the complexities of love and relationships. Despite the breezy production, it hits hard on the psyche, appealing to the vulnerability behind the machismo often associated with hip-hop. Minaj’s poignant lyrics dissect intimate dynamics, reflecting on how emotional armor can mislead relationships, by suggesting that underneath, we “ain’t that different”. Future’s presence heightens this emotional undertone, as he navigates love’s destructive nature. The song’s brilliance lies not only in Minaj’s candidness but also in how it challenges hip-hop’s usual bravado. It’s a break from the ostentatious, asserting that vulnerability is not weakness. In a culture that often rewards surface toughness, this introspective narrative is a breath of fresh air, a testament to Minaj’s versatility and understanding of human nature.

The song allows Minaj to unveil her spiritual revelations, referencing a river as a sanctum for spiritual healing and God as a source of unfailing blessings. This bar-for-bar delivery is Nicki laying her soul bare, a shift from her typically braggadocious style. The track balances the sacred and the profane, juxtaposing her recent motherhood and her faith. Nicki affirms her source of strength and resilience, making clear that her blessings aren’t currency-based but God-given. From a lyrical standpoint, this song marks a departure for her, showing a depth that resonates with authenticity. As listeners, we’re given a glimpse of Minaj’s swirl of emotions, challenges, and triumphs, all while she reminds us of the importance of gratitude and humility in the face of life’s blessings.

She spits a searing commentary on her experiences in the industry, referencing the doubters who once laughed at her ambitions and the unparalleled victory she now holds as one of the greatest female rappers. Her swag-filled, no-holds-barred approach serves as a siren call to anyone who ever doubted her, effectively painting a potent picture of her indomitable spirit. Her introspective verses echo the struggles that she’s overcome, from a street violence episode to industry dismissals, reminding listeners that she’s more than crossed the chasm from doubter to conqueror. All while reflecting on the bittersweet nature of memories, and how they shape us. Artfully punctuating the track is the poignant chorus, ‘Memories don’t live like people do’, a profound lyric that’s testament to Nicki’s lyrical prowess and emotive storytelling.

The cut brims with streetwise bravado, painting a vivid picture of backstreet dealings and power dynamics. Minaj’s swagger meets its match in 50’s hardened realism, creating an intriguing sonic alliance. Minaj’s lyrics weave a narrative of fearless hustling and unapologetic disses, laced with her signature quick-witted punchlines. She adopts an assertive approach, exploring the theme of asserting dominance in an unforgiving urban landscape. From the lines about dropping a bag on a Rolls Royce to dismissing weak competition, Minaj stakes her claim at the top. And when she repeats “Murder, murder, murder, murder,” it’s less an incitement of violence, and more a declaration of her lyrical prowess, crushing the competition with surgical precision. Meanwhile, 50 Cent’s gritty verse amplifies the track’s relentless aura and echoes the do-or-die ethos of the streets, underpinning the song’s relentless energy and reaffirming the pair’s hustler status.

Underneath her trademark quickfire rap verses, there’s a raw honesty to these lyrics, shedding light on her journey from emotional dependence to self-affirmation. The synergy with Monica and Keyshia Cole’s powerful vocals reinforces Nicki’s message, fueling an anthem for self-love and liberation. This track isn’t just a personal testament, but an assertive stand against the hard-knock norms of patriarchal love, with Nicki using her voice to inspire her ‘Barbie’ army and beyond. “Love Me Enough” is a musical masterpiece that not only showcases Minaj’s lyrical prowess but also her emotional growth as an artist, echoing a sentiment that reverberates through the entire ‘Pink Friday 2’ album.