Grammy-winning rapper Cardi B is back with a bang! A new music video, “Like What (Freestyle)” was recently released. The video is a tribute to two famous women in hip-hop: Lil’ Kim and Missy Elliott. The song is catchy and pays homage to these iconic figures.
The video, released on March 1, 2024, was directed by Cardi B’s ex-husband, Offset, who supported his wife’s new release on his Instagram Stories. The video showcases Cardi in a futuristic mansion, wearing eye-catching outfits. Think fur coats, revealing lingerie, and plenty of bling.Fans of Missy Elliott will instantly recognize the inspiration behind Cardi’s bedazzled eyebrow diamonds, a signature style of the legendary rapper. Missy herself even gave the video a shoutout on social media, writing:
“Cardi B you did that! Love the homage to my eyebrow diamonds. You are a star!”
The video is also packed with subtle nods to Lil’ Kim, another influential female rapper who paved the way for Cardi and many others. Cardi wears colored wigs, similar to Lil’ Kim’s, and strikes pose inspired by Kim’s album covers. The video also includes a reference to Elliott’s “She’s a Bitch” from her 1999 album Da Real World, which featured Lil’ Kim as a guest.
Cardi B doesn’t hold back in the lyrics, hinting at some playful jabs towards her rivals in the industry. She seems to take a shot at her longtime rival Nicki Minaj by saying,
“I had everything you have now five years ago.”
This refers to Cardi B’s “Bodak Yellow” topping the Billboard Hot 100 five years before Nicki Minaj’s “Super Bass.”
Cardi B’s “Like What” music video isn’t just a song release; it’s a celebration of female rap royalty. Lil’ Kim and Missy Elliott have influenced the genre. Cardi B is continuing their legacy and adding her style.
