In an era where the female rap genre is thriving, Nicki Minaj continues to stand at the pinnacle. The “Queen of Rap” has topped the 2024 rankings for best-selling female rappers for sales in the United States, despite releasing no new music this year.
Her unparalleled ability to dominate sales, streams, and influence places her ahead of formidable contemporaries like Doja Cat, Megan Thee Stallion, and Cardi B. This achievement underscores her longevity and the loyalty of her fanbase, sparking renewed debates about her place in the ever-evolving landscape of hip-hop.
The 2024 Top 10 Female Rappers by Sales
The list of 2024’s best-selling female rappers in the US is a testament to the diverse and competitive nature of the genre:
- Nicki Minaj
- Doja Cat
- Megan Thee Stallion
- GloRilla
- Sexyy Red
- Cardi B
- Latto
- Flo Milli
- Lauryn Hill
- Ice Spice
While Nicki Minaj reigns supreme, artists like Doja Cat and Megan Thee Stallion have also had remarkable years, driven by new music releases and strong fan engagement. Meanwhile, rising stars like GloRilla and Ice Spice have captured attention, hinting at the future of the genre.
Nicki Minaj’s Enduring Appeal
Nicki Minaj’s continued dominance comes as no surprise to her fans. With over a decade in the industry, she has built an unmatched legacy with hits like “Super Bass” and “Anaconda,” along with her feature appearances on chart-topping collaborations. What makes 2024 remarkable is her ability to outsell peers without releasing new music. Instead, her extensive catalog continues to rack up streams and sales, showcasing her lasting impact on both casual listeners and die-hard fans.
Minaj’s influence is further amplified by her strategic presence on social media. Known for engaging directly with her fanbase, the Barbz, she remains a prominent figure in pop culture discussions. Her collaborations with brands and her ability to stay relevant in a fast-paced industry contribute to her continued success.
Rising Stars and New Challenges
While Nicki Minaj sits comfortably at the top, the 2024 rankings highlight the rise of new voices in female rap. GloRilla and Sexyy Red have brought fresh perspectives and sounds to the genre, resonating with younger audiences. Their success reflects a broader shift in hip-hop, where unique storytelling and experimentation are increasingly celebrated.
Doja Cat and Megan Thee Stallion, who hold the #2 and #3 spots respectively, have continued to push boundaries with their music and visuals. Doja’s genre-blending approach and Megan’s unapologetic lyricism have solidified their positions as trailblazers. Cardi B, despite a quieter year musically, remains a fan favorite, with anticipation building for her next major release.
How Female Rappers Are Shaping 2024’s Music Scene
The dominance of female rappers extends beyond sales figures. Artists like Flo Milli and Latto have demonstrated that they are not just one-hit wonders, while Ice Spice has used viral moments to establish herself as a force to be reckoned with. Lauryn Hill’s inclusion in the top 10, despite her limited recent output, speaks to the timelessness of her work and its continued resonance with audiences.
As hip-hop celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, the contributions of female rappers are more prominent than ever. From Grammy wins to viral TikTok challenges, their cultural influence rivals and often surpasses that of their male counterparts.
Best-Selling Female Artists in 2024
Nicki Minaj’s achievements are even more impressive when viewed alongside the best-selling female artists across all genres in 2024. Here’s the list:
- Taylor Swift
- Billie Eilish
- Sabrina Carpenter
- SZA
- Beyoncé
- Ariana Grande
- Olivia Rodrigo
- Chappell Roan
- Lana Del Rey
- Rihanna
- Nicki Minaj
- Doja Cat
- Lady Gaga
- Dua Lipa
- Charli XCX
Minaj’s position at #11 overall, and as the highest-ranked rapper, underscores her crossover appeal and ability to compete with global superstars like Taylor Swift and Beyoncé.
What’s Next for Nicki Minaj?
As 2024 comes to a close, fans are eagerly anticipating what’s next for Nicki Minaj. With rumors of a new album and potential collaborations circulating, the stage is set for her to continue her reign into 2025. For now, her status as the best-selling female rapper of 2024 reaffirms her position as one of hip-hop’s most enduring icons.
In a genre that thrives on competition and innovation, Nicki Minaj’s ability to maintain her dominance while inspiring the next generation of female rappers is a testament to her unparalleled legacy.
Mia Brooks dives deep into the beats and rhythms of the music industry, covering everything from chart-topping albums to underground artists. With a passion for discovering new talent and exploring the stories behind the songs, Mia keeps readers updated on all things music.
