Cardi B, born Belcalis Almanzar, is a Grammy-winning rapper and pop culture icon known for hits like “Bodak Yellow,” “I Like It,” and “WAP.” Rising from humble beginnings in New York City, she gained fame with her unapologetic personality and raw talent. 

Cardi first captured attention on social media and reality TV before dominating the music scene. Her trailblazing career includes groundbreaking accolades like being the first solo woman to win the Grammy for Best Rap Album with Invasion of Privacy.

Born on October 11, 1992, in the Bronx, New York, Cardi B has roots in both Trinidad and the Dominican Republic. Raised in the Bronx and spending time in Washington Heights, Cardi's upbringing was shaped by the struggles of her community.

Her teenage years were tumultuous; she joined the Bloods gang and later turned to stripping to escape poverty and a toxic relationship. Despite dropping out of college, she credits stripping for helping her regain control of her life.

Her stage name, Cardi B, originates from the nickname "Bacardi," inspired by her sister's name, Hennessy. “The ‘B’ stands for whatever... depending on the day,” she joked.

Cardi first made waves on social media platforms like Instagram and Vine, where her candid videos earned her a loyal following. In 2015, she joined VH1’s Love & Hip Hop: New York, showcasing her charisma and ambition. After two seasons, she left the show in 2017 to pursue a music career full-time.

Cardi debuted musically with remixes and mixtapes, including Gangsta B** Music Vol. 1* in 2016. She signed with Atlantic Records in 2017 and released Gangsta B** Music Vol. 2*, solidifying her place as a rising star. That same year, Cardi dropped her breakthrough single, “Bodak Yellow.” 

The track topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart, marking her as the first solo female rapper to achieve this feat since Lauryn Hill in 1998. In March 2021, “Bodak Yellow” became the first diamond-certified single by a female rapper.

Cardi’s debut album, Invasion of Privacy, was released in April 2018 to critical and commercial success. Featuring collaborations with artists like Chance the Rapper, SZA, and Migos, the album shattered streaming records on Apple Music. 

Tracks like “I Like It” and “Bartier Cardi” kept her at the top of the charts, and her Grammy win for Best Rap Album in 2019 made history.

Beyond her solo success, Cardi has been a go-to collaborator for major artists. Her partnerships include the chart-topping remix of Maroon 5’s “Girls Like You” and viral hits like “WAP” with Megan Thee Stallion. Other standout tracks include “Please Me” with Bruno Mars and “Rumors” with Lizzo.

Personal Life: Marriage, Motherhood, and Challenges

Cardi B married Migos rapper Offset in 2017. Despite their public ups and downs, including allegations of infidelity, the couple shares three children. 

Their first daughter, Kulture, was born in 2018, followed by Wave in 2021, and another child in 2024. Cardi has remained open about the challenges of balancing fame, family, and personal growth.

Legal Troubles and Accountability

Cardi’s past has occasionally caught up with her. In 2018, she was involved in a legal case stemming from an altercation at a Queens strip club. 

After initially rejecting a plea deal, she pleaded guilty to misdemeanors in 2022, accepting responsibility for her actions. “These moments don’t define me,” she reflected, emphasizing her growth.

Fans eagerly await Cardi B’s sophomore album, which she teased for release in 2024. While the timeline has shifted due to personal reasons, Cardi reassures fans that “things are getting done.” 

With a string of chart-topping hits and a loyal fan base, Cardi’s influence on the music industry remains unparalleled.