While Nicki Minaj’s upcoming album was reportedly scheduled for release on March 27, 2026, the acclaimed rapper has allegedly postponed its debut amid an escalating financial dispute with music mogul Jay-Z over Tidal streaming service equity.
The conflict, which has now spilled into public view, centers on Minaj’s claims that Jay-Z owes her between $100 million and $200 million related to her stake in the streaming platform.
The dispute traces back to 2015 when Jay-Z acquired Swedish company Aspiro for $56 million and launched Tidal as an artist-owned streaming alternative.
According to industry sources, Minaj was promised equity and a promotional role in the platform, arrangements she claims were never properly honored, particularly following Tidal’s sale in March 2021.
Sources reveal Minaj’s Tidal equity promises went unfulfilled after the platform’s 2021 sale, leaving the artist without proper compensation.
In July 2024, Minaj took to X (formerly Twitter) to unleash what many described as a “bitter tirade” against Jay-Z, even posting an AI-generated image mocking him with a pink wig while holding documents related to the $200 million dispute.
“Karmic debt comes due for ‘Hov,'” she remarked sarcastically, triggering widespread support from her fanbase.
Legal experts note the complexity of the situation, pointing out that in jurisdictions like New York and New Jersey, unsigned contracts can still be enforceable if there’s evidence of performance, email exchanges, or partial payment.
Critics have characterized Jay-Z’s handling of artist equity as that of a “slimy businessman,” though others question why formal documentation wasn’t secured.
Minaj has stated her intention to use any recovered funds to support her #StudentOfTheGame charity, which provides educational assistance to fans.
Meanwhile, industry insiders suggest the conflict has strained Minaj’s relationship with Roc Nation, Jay-Z’s entertainment company, effectively limiting her business options.
The controversy highlights broader challenges within the music industry regarding artist compensation and equity in streaming platforms, a recurring issue that has affected multiple artists in their dealings with Tidal since its inception.
Music rights experts suggest that Minaj could have better protected her interests by registering with performance rights organizations that ensure proper royalty collection and distribution for artists.
Some legal professionals recommend that Minaj pursue her claims through formal legal channels rather than continuing her social media campaign against Jay-Z.
This dispute underscores the importance for artists to establish diverse income streams beyond streaming platforms to protect their financial interests in an increasingly complex music industry landscape.
Adding fuel to the fire, Minaj has expressed frustration over Jay-Z’s involvement in Super Bowl performance selections, particularly his decision to choose Kendrick Lamar over Lil Wayne for the 2025 halftime show.
