Polarizing rapper Nicki Minaj looks to reclaim (or solidify) her perch atop the female rap game with “Chun-Li,” one of two singles released April 13, 2018.

There’s good news and bad news – starting this review off with a BOOM! The good news is that Nicki Minaj is back with new music! The bad news is that her return didn’t come without its share of controversy, sigh.  Controversial comeback aside, the people are definitely giving Minaj what she wants – press.  The timing of the comeback seems strategic (*didn’t the Cardi B album just arrive*) but whatever, she’s back with two new singles – “Barbie Tingz” and “Chun-Li”– and that’s all that matters.

“Ayo, look like I’m goin’ for a swim

Dunk on ‘em, now I’m swingin’ off the rim

B*tch ain’t comin’ off the bench

While I’m comin’ off the court fully drenched.”

Like “Barbie Tingz,” Nicki Minaj is in full-on, hard-nosed, tough-as-nails mode.  In other words, she’s not playing in the least. Not merely exuding ‘that attitude’ all by herself, the production provides fuel for her fire. The backdrop is minimalist, comprised of a hard-hitting beat, sound effects, and a recurring synth.  Minaj tends to excel with simpler, repetitive productions, so it’s not surprising that she is again successful on “Chun-Li.” That said, does Minaj bring anything new or truly notable to the table with this particular single?

The answer to that question is no.  This is a flex-fest for Minaj, who brags about “Bentley tints” and “Fendi prints” among other things. Nonetheless, she plays into the persona of Chun-Li, including “copping the chopsticks” as well as having “Chinese ink on, Siamese links on.”

Final Thoughts

All in all, “Chun-Li” gives Nicki Minaj another enjoyable single.  It’s not the second coming and certainly doesn’t revolutionary rap, but it’s respectable.  Does it eclipse “Barbie Tingz?” Not in my opinion, but this single has actually been performing better.

Nicki Minaj • Chun-Li – Single • Young Money / Cash Money • Release: 4.13.18

Photo Credits: Young Money / Cash Money