Nicki Minaj.Photo: Arturo Holmes/Getty
Nicki Minajbrought her signature 50 shades of pink to the 2022 VMAs.
The queen of rap made a grand entrance with an ultimate mashup, making it her first VMAs performance since 2018.
The “Video Vanguard royalty” returned to the stage for heremcee dutiesin a fuchsia Dolce & Gabbana satin gown that draped her curves, dazzled with its gemmed bodice, and made a daring statement with a waist-high slit. She teamed the look with REZA and Cicada jewelry and stiletto heels.
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This year, Minaj, 39, was honored with the year’sMichael Jackson Video Vanguard Award.
During her speech, she thanked fellow artists who’ve inspired her — includingLil' Wayne,JAY-Z,Rihanna,Kanye West,Beyoncé,Britney Spearsand many more.
She also showed gratitude for her army of fans, known as Barbz, and dedicated the award to her23-month-old “Papa Bear” son, whom she shares with husbandKenneth “Zoo” Petty.
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Mental health was another subject threaded into Minaj’s speech. “I wishWhitney HoustonandMichael Jacksonwere still here,” she said. “I wish that people understood what they meant and what they were going through. I wish people took mental health seriously, even for the people who we think have perfect lives. I wishPop SmokeandJuice WRLDandNipsey Husslewere here.”
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Minaj’s latest looks joins arepertoire of iconic outfitsthat track back from her latest Met Gala moment to her first VMAs show in 2010.
Steve Granitz/WireImage
Minaj has also pioneered the meaning ofBarbiecore, with a collection of head-to-toe pink outfits behind her.
The 2022 VMAs are airing live Sunday night from the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.
source: people.com
