Nicki Minaj’s ‘Starships’ Producer RedOne Reacts to Her Not Wanting to Sing Their Song
Photo by Rodin Eckenroth/WireImage Reading Time: 2 minutes
Nicki Minaj’s recent decision to shun her megahit “Starships” during live performances has stirred controversy among fans. Producer RedOne, known for his collaboration on the track, has responded to Minaj’s stance with unwavering respect for her artistic preferences.
RedOne is in Support of Nicki Minaj Not Singing “Starships”
Music lovers were left stunned during Minaj’s New Year’s Eve performance in Miami when the rapper abruptly halted her 2012 smash hit “Starships.” After the crowd eagerly belted out the opening lines, Minaj stopped the DJ and declared that she does not sing that song anymore.
“Psych, psych, psych! I don’t perform that song no more, y’all! I don’t like it… what y’all want me to do? Stupid song!” Minaj said.
In response to Minaj’s firm stance on retiring “Starships” from her live show, producer RedOne demonstrated a commendable display of respect and understanding. Addressing the controversy, he expressed his unwavering regard for Minaj’s artistic autonomy.
“I have the utmost respect for Minaj and I love her work very much. I will always respect an artist’s wishes.” RedOne said. “I feel very proud to have made that record with her along with the global success it made.”
Minaj has collaborated with RedOne on other hits like “Pound the Alarm” and still performs those live. As RedOne acknowledged, artists pick favorites from their careers the same way parents do with children.
Minaj No Longer Connects With Much of Her Past Music
This isn’t the first time Minaj has expressed distaste for her old material. She’s previously slammed tracks like “Your Love,” “Anaconda,” and admitted much of her discography makes her cringe.
Minaj just released a new album in December 2022 after a five-year hiatus. She’s clearly eager to move in a new creative direction, even if that means denouncing songs that launched her career.
While the abrupt blacklisting of “Starships” at her NYE show may have upset some fans, Minaj has the right to distance herself from past work. RedOne’s gracious response reflects an understanding that as artists evolve, their relationship with certain songs can change.
Minaj built her career on taking risks and speaking her mind. So while her “Starships” snub sparked controversy, she’s never been one to hold back out of fear of backlash. As Minaj begins this next era, her creative integrity matters far more to her than pleasing crowds with old hits.
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