Pop sensation Billie Eilish has made waves once again, this time by declaring Nicki Minaj as the greatest female rapper of all time. In a recent episode of Complex’s GOAT Talk, shared on March 27, 2025, the nine-time Grammy Award winner didn’t hesitate when asked about her pick, stating, "Nicki Minaj is, like, obviously… Nicki is GOAT, for sure." This bold assertion has reignited discussions among fans and critics alike about Minaj's legacy in the music industry.
While Eilish's statement might not surprise many, it comes against a backdrop of mixed feelings among her fans. In 2023, there was some frustration when it was believed that Eilish would feature on Minaj’s then-upcoming album, Pink Friday 2. Instead, Minaj opted to sample Eilish’s haunting track "When The Party’s Over" for her song "Are You Gone Already." Following the album's release, Minaj expressed her gratitude by sharing flowers and a heartfelt card from Eilish and her brother, Finneas, which read, "Congratulations and thank you for letting us into your world!" Minaj captioned her post, "Thank you for making this moment so special for me," highlighting the bond between the two artists.
In the same episode, Eilish discussed other personal favorites, revealing her GOAT life-anthem songs. She shared her appreciation for Lady Gaga, mentioning tracks like "Poker Face," "G.U.Y.," and "Alejandro," saying, "Honestly, I’ve been listening to a lot of old Gaga — that is my s–t right now." This love for Gaga's music reflects Eilish's eclectic taste and her admiration for artists who have paved the way in pop music.
When it comes to emotional music, Eilish revealed that the best album for her to cry to is Sufjan Stevens’ Carrie & Lowell. Specifically, she mentioned the song "Fourth of July," describing it as "so upsetting, deeply, deeply upsetting. And so beautiful and just so dark." This candidness about her feelings and the music that resonates with her adds depth to her persona, making her relatable to fans who find solace in similar tunes.
As for her favorite vocalists, Eilish named a trio of iconic singers: Ella Fitzgerald, Tori Kelly, and Beyoncé. She praised Fitzgerald as "like, my favorite singer" and expressed her long-standing admiration for Kelly, stating, "I’ve actually been a Tori Kelly fan since I think I was 11." Eilish's appreciation for Beyoncé was equally enthusiastic, as she remarked, "Beyoncé, I mean, duh. [Her voice] is so perfect. Perfect. Unbelievable. I’ve never heard her sing, like, a flat note ever." This admiration showcases Eilish's wide-ranging musical influences and her respect for artistry in various forms.
Currently, Eilish is enjoying a break from her ongoing Hit Me Hard and Soft tour, which kicked off in North America in the fall of 2024. After a successful run of Australian dates earlier this year, she is set to resume her tour on April 23, 2025, in Sweden, where she will kick off the European leg lasting through July. The tour has been a significant part of her career, following the release of her third studio album, Hit Me Hard and Soft, which debuted in May 2024, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard 200 and producing top 10 hits like "Lunch" and "Birds of a Feather."
In this latest episode of GOAT Talk, Eilish's choices reflect not only her personal preferences but also the influences that shape her music and artistry. Her confidence in declaring Nicki Minaj as the GOAT female rapper aligns with the sentiments of many fans who regard Minaj as a trailblazer in the hip-hop genre. As debates about the greatest of all time continue in the music industry, Eilish's endorsement adds a new layer to the conversation.
Fans and critics alike are eager to see how Eilish's career continues to evolve, especially with the upcoming European leg of her tour. With her ability to connect with audiences through her music and candid discussions about her influences, Eilish remains a significant figure in contemporary pop culture. As she navigates her journey, her insights into the artists she admires provide a fascinating glimpse into the inspirations behind her own work.
In conclusion, Billie Eilish's declaration of Nicki Minaj as the GOAT female rapper not only sparks conversation but also highlights the interconnectedness of artists within the music industry. As Eilish prepares to resume her tour and continue her artistic journey, fans are left anticipating what’s next from this remarkable young talent.
