Rumors of a collaboration between Azealia Banks and Nicki Minaj have been making the rounds. But is there any truth to this claim? While fans have been buzzing about the possibility of two of hip-hop’s most dynamic female rappers working together, the history between Banks and Minaj tells a different story.
Azealia Banks and Nicki Minaj have had their share of highs and lows. Admiration quickly turned into fiery criticism as Banks never shied away from voicing her opinion about Minaj. There was even one time in 2017 when Banks extended an olive branch, apologizing for past remarks and respecting Minaj’s role in hip-hop. There was even hope for friendship—or even collaboration—between the two for a short time.
Things dramatically turned in 2018 when Banks strongly condemned Minaj for her collaboration with polarizing rapper Tekashi69. She publicly denounced Minaj’s action as morally despicable. This began a series of public attacks, with Banks making jibes about Minaj’s appearance and career choices.
Fast-forward to 2025, and the rumor mill is grinding again about the potential collaboration. What set it off this time around? Social media posts are suggesting that Banks is ready to partner with Minaj. However, scrutiny of Banks’ recent online activity reveals something different. Rather than expressing her wish to collaborate with Minaj, Banks has remained with her series of critical barbs.
When her supporters brought up the long-standing beef between Minaj and Megan Thee Stallion earlier this year, Banks hit back with lengthy Instagram posts explaining Minaj’s allegedly jealous demeanor towards Megan’s success. She even went as far as to say that Minaj was upset with Jay-Z’s public approval of Megan, further fuelling the fire of their already fiery rivalry.
In another incident, Banks reacted to reports that Minaj had surpassed Lisa of BLACKPINK as the second most-streamed female rapper on Spotify. Far from congratulating Minaj on her achievement or even proposing a collaboration, Banks took the opportunity to criticize the way Lisa was categorized as a rapper, sparking another controversy on social media.
Despite the current tension, hip-hop fans still expect a collaboration from Banks and Minaj. Both are known for their sharp lyricism, distinct voices, and unapologetic attitude towards music. A song with them would bring Banks’ experimental creativity and Minaj’s mainstream popularity.
Banks has been adamant about her affection for dark lyricism and hard beats, hallmarks of Minaj’s sound. If the two put their differences aside, they would have something legendary. But with the long-standing feud and recent social media beef, it doesn’t appear likely—at least not anytime soon.
Though the idea of Azealia Banks and Nicki Minaj working together is appealing, the signs are that it is something of a dream for the fans rather than something that would ever come about. Banks has not said anything regarding working with Minaj in recent years. Instead, her online presence is one of criticism, not collaboration.
