Rewriting The Blueprint: A Case Study Of The Pinkprint, Nicki Minaj’s Persona

This thesis critically examines The Pinkprint album as a transformative era in Nicki Minaj’s career, analyzing its lyrics, performances, music videos, tours, and the persona she crafted during this period. Using a case study approach, this research explores how Minaj’s artistic choices in The Pinkprint, particularly the shift from theatrical alter egos like Roman Zolanski to the more personal Onika, redefined her public image and deepened her connection with fans. This study will deconstruct The Pinkprint's thematic elements by employing textual and visual analysis, focusing on its representations of vulnerability, empowerment, and identity. Drawing from Black Feminist Thought, Cultural Performance Theory, and Intersectionality, this research situates The Pinkprint within broader discussions on Black women’s self-representation, digital performance, and the evolving politics of hip-hop. This study analyzes Minaj’s lyrical storytelling and visual aesthetics, highlighting The Pinkprint as both an intimate artistic statement and a pivotal cultural moment. It contributes to conversations on gender and race. It offers insights into how contemporary artists navigate personal and public identity in an era of hyper-connectivity.