SHENANIGANS! Nicki Minaj apologizes after using Malcolm X image for new song

Posted by | Ray Cornelius 

Nicki Minaj found herself in some pretty hot water on Thursday. The Grammy-nominated rapper came under fire after some controversial art work for her new single, “Lookin Ass N*gga” was posted on her website.

The explicit track’s cover art reveals an iconic photo of slain civil rights leader Malcolm X holding a gun and looking out of a window. I’m assuming the image of him holding the weapon is supposed to coincide with the “gun toting” image Minaj has in her video. Either way, it was a bad choice and the photo has a lot of people upset. There is even a petition to have the photo removed immediately.

Since the release of the cover art, Minaj has issued an apology to her fans and Malcolm X’s family/estate but has not removed the image from her website. Take a look at the cover and apology below and tell us what you think.

What seems to be the issue now? Do you have a problem with me referring to the people Malcolm X was ready to pull his gun out on as Lookin Ass Niggaz? Well, I apologize. That was never the official artwork nor is this an official single. This is a conversation. Not a single. I am in the video shooting at Lookin Ass Niggaz and there happened to be an iconic photo of Malcolm X ready to do the same thing for what he believed in!!!! It is in no way to undermine his efforts and legacy. I apologize to the Malcolm X estate if the meaning of the photo was misconstrued. The word “nigga” causes so much debate in our community while the “nigga” behavior gets praised and worship. Let’s not. Apologies again to his family. I have nothing but respect an adoration for u. The photo was removed hours ago. Thank you

Photo Credits: elrimix.com and mypinkfriday.com