Cardi B brings Washington Heights to a standstill

Cardi B turned a quiet Saturday in Washington Heights into a street party when she staged a surprise pop-up outside a local deli to promote her upcoming album 'Am I the Drama?'.

The Grammy-winning rapper drew hundreds of fans to Cloud Deli, where she was spotted dancing on the roof of her car as crowds swarmed with phones raised high.

The event, announced only hours earlier on Instagram, quickly transformed into a neighbourhood celebration of music, dancing and chants of "Cardi B is the Queen." Fans described the atmosphere as electric.

The Bronx native's second studio album drops Friday, and the pop-up doubled as a nod to her latest single 'Bodega Baddie', which references New York's iconic corner stores.

One witness said Cardi B danced with a baby passed up to her from the crowd, sending cheers rippling through the street. Local resident Alba Cruz added: "People were screaming, 'Cardi B is the Queen.' It felt like a block party."

Police confirmed one arrest on a minor charge during the gathering but provided no details. The rest of the event unfolded without major incident, despite fans climbing on vehicles and spilling into the road.

The pop-up showcased Cardi B's signature blend of spectacle and hometown pride, setting the stage for the release of 'Am I the Drama?'. Judging by the reaction in Washington Heights, her fans are ready for the next act.