Nicki Minaj features on Vogue Italia cover, opens up about balancing motherhood with music career

Nicki Minaj, 42, graces the cover of Vogue Italia this month, where she opens up in a candid interview about the pressures of fame and her decision to delay motherhood.

Despite being one of the best-selling music artists of all time, with over 100 million records sold, the rapper revealed that the relentless criticism she has faced over the years has often made her question her place in the industry.

"I’ve heard every possible criticism about me," Minaj confessed. "I’ve thought about quitting so many times. I’m glad I didn’t. I hope my story can be an inspiration to others and encourage them not to give up," she continued.

The Super Bass hitmaker, who is a mother to a four-year-old boy with her husband Kenneth "Zoo" Petty, also shared her personal reasons for delaying motherhood. She explained that the pressures of her career, particularly the need to support her family, meant that she postponed having children. "I didn’t go to every Thanksgiving, every Christmas, or birthday party because I had to work," Minaj noted. "The price I paid was not having a 'normal' life."

Nicki emphasized that while her career has allowed her to provide her son with opportunities she never had, there are still challenges, particularly around maintaining his privacy. "When we go out, I have to worry that someone will take his picture," she said.

Reflecting on her upbringing, Minaj spoke about the discipline she received as a child. "I was one of those kids who could tell when an adult was stupid. I had nothing, and I wanted it more than anyone else," she added. Minaj’s determination and ambition from a young age have been integral to her success, as she often told others she would one day become a star.

The full interview, along with her cover feature, will be available in the May 28 issue of Vogue Italia and online at vogue.it.