A heated exchange erupted online this week between rap icon Nicki Minaj and R\&B star SZA, with SZA revealing she had previously turned down two collaboration requests from Minaj.
The drama unfolded on X (formerly Twitter) after Minaj accused Top Dawg Entertainment President, Terrence “Punch” Henderson — SZA’s former manager — of rejecting business offers and allegedly bullying her. SZA, who split from Henderson in 2024, later posted a cryptic message: “Mercury retrograde… don’t take the bait lol silly goose.”
Although not directed at anyone, Minaj took offense and launched a tirade, hurling insults at SZA. She mocked the singer’s appearance, accused her of lying, and downplayed her musical relevance, stating, “If every song you’ve ever done vanished, the music business wouldn’t even miss you.”
The rapper further jabbed, “What have you done besides yodel with auto-tune? Boo, I’m an icon. You’re not.”
Known for avoiding public drama, SZA broke her silence with a calm but pointed response. She confirmed she had indeed declined Minaj’s collaboration requests and posted evidence — a screenshot of a direct message from Minaj’s team requesting a feature.
SZA wrote, “Nicki. You absolutely know my music and what I contribute because you’ve asked for features twice. In addition to rapping my lyrics on ‘Feeling Myself’… you’re having a moment. I’m not sure why, but be blessed.”
She also addressed the harassment she regularly faces, saying:
“I get bullied by millions online every day, then go perform for sold-out stadiums where I feel real love. I’m the most successful I’ve ever been. Get some perspective and bark at the wall!!!”
In response, Minaj resurfaced old tweets allegedly posted by SZA that criticized stars like Beyoncé, Rihanna, Madonna, and Ciara — women SZA would later collaborate with. Minaj accused her of targeting fellow female artists without cause.
The feud also gave Minaj a platform to revive her long-standing issues with Roc Nation and its CEO, Desiree Perez, using the hashtag #JusticeForDemoree in reference to Perez’s daughter, who has accused her mother of mistreatment. Minaj hinted at broader industry conflicts involving power, bullying, and control.
This latest clash adds to Minaj’s long list of public fallouts with female stars, including Cardi B, Megan Thee Stallion, Latto, Miley Cyrus, and Mariah Carey.
Many fans noted that SZA’s decision to engage publicly marked a rare shift from her usual low-profile demeanor. Still, she chose to bow out gracefully, tweeting, “Lmao lemme go back to being calm, shy and meek. Y’all have a blessed night! See you tomorrow for night 2, Paris!”
SZA is currently on tour with Kendrick Lamar and recently took the stage at Paris La Défense Arena.
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