Nicki Minaj and Megan Thee Stallion are two of the biggest titans of the rap world – and lately they’ve been feuding, although that wasn’t always the case. Just five years ago, they were the best of friends.

Megan’s single “Hiss”, released in January, appears to take a dig at Minaj and her husband Kenneth Petty, a registered sex offender. Days later, Minaj released “Big Foot”, seemingly mocking Megan over her being shot by rapper Tory Lanez in 2020. Talk about low blows.

So how exactly did they get here – and how do their careers and bank accounts compare? Let’s take a closer look …

Nicki Minaj and Megan Thee Stallion were originally friends

Minaj and Megan’s first public interaction was during an Instagram Live session in July 2019, where Megan, now 28, then an emerging talent from Houston, expressed her admiration for Minaj, now 41.

The session marked the start of their friendship, leading to their collaborative hit “Hot Girl Summer”, which soared to No 11 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Meet Ye’s wife Bianca Censori’s Aussie ‘gangster’ and ‘Kardashian-like’ family

Despite a promising beginning though, the industry’s competitive nature, especially with the emergence of rivalries like Minaj and Cardi B’s, strained their bond. Megan’s work with Cardi on “WAP” initially seemed harmless, but by early 2021, a visible rift had formed between Minaj and Megan as they unfollowed each other on social media.

Their hip-hop fame

Minaj and Megan charted distinctive paths in the hip-hop industry. Minaj’s rise from a Trinidadian immigrant in Queens to a global hip-hop icon shows ambition and resilience. Beginning her career with New York rap group Hoodstars and catching the eye of Big Fendi, the CEO of Dirty Money Entertainment, she embarked on a solo journey marked by hit mixtapes and a distinctive style.

Signing with Young Money Entertainment in 2009 catapulted her to fame, as she blended rap with pop and challenged norms for female rappers with her unique alter egos and fashion sense. From the Super Bowl to American Idol, Minaj’s performances showcased her broad appeal, while endorsements and business ventures established her as an entertainment powerhouse.

Where is Chelsea Clinton now, amid revelations about her 2010 wedding?

Meanwhile, Megan stands out not only as an influential figure in rap, but also as a trailblazer. She made sure to graduate from university for the sake of her mum, she told People magazine. Her rise was driven by strategic moves, like her pivotal signing with 1501 Certified Entertainment. Her work, from “Tina Snow” to “Good News”, showcases her lyrical skill and dynamic persona, earning acclaim and a loyal fan base.

In 2024, Megan’s shift to an independent artist and her collaboration with Warner Music Group marked a significant new phase in her career, emphasising her control over her artistic direction.

10 of the richest hip-hop artists in 2023 – net worths, ranked

Their net worths and charitable projects

In 2024, Minaj and Megan both stand as strong figures in the rap industry, with net worths of US$150 million and US$30 million, respectively, per Celebrity Net Worth. Both have skilfully diversified their income, with Minaj leveraging endorsements, her rights with Young Money, acting and voice-over work, while Megan has made waves through partnerships with high-profile artists like BTS, and brands from Fashion Nova to Revlon, as well as launching virtual reality concerts.

Their smart business moves, including Minaj’s investment in Jay-Z’s streaming service and Megan’s strategic collaborations with Coach, Puma and Nike, underscore their industry savvy.

Both artists share a penchant for blending their luxurious lifestyles with philanthropy. Minaj enjoys the finer things, like luxury cars and fashion, and invests in property too, recently purchasing a mansion in Hidden Hills.

Megan, too, has a keen eye for property and celebrates her success with high-end fashion and jewellery.

Yet their wealth isn’t just for personal gain. Minaj funds university scholarships, and Megan founded The Pete and Thomas Foundation, supporting women’s charities.

This parallel approach to wealth – enjoying the rewards of their success while giving back to the community – highlights their shared values beyond their music, making them influential role models in and out of the hip-hop scene.

ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7tK%2FMqWWcp51kuqKzwLOgp52jZMC1xcueZp6mpJq%2Fta3Ip6SepqRkrrPAyJyjnmdjZ4JxhZdsZqadl5a7bsDHnpxmq6SWua21zqdkmqaUYruqr8qiZKahnpa3bq%2FOpqeaqpWZeqex1J2gp59dnbaxeceop2appZqyr7%2BMnaCsq5WZeqatwqFkqKyYmr9uusSwZKyhnpy5pr8%3D