What began as a cryptic post quickly unraveled into a headline-grabbing war of words between two of music’s most prominent women—Nicki Minaj and SZA.
The tension sparked July 15, when Minaj took aim at Top Dawg Entertainment’s former president Terrence “Punch” Henderson, accusing him of bullying and referencing his ties to SZA. While SZA’s seemingly lighthearted “don’t take the bait” post initially felt harmless, Minaj interpreted it as shade—and fired back hard.
The rap icon’s responses grew increasingly sharp, including barbs about SZA’s appearance, talent, and even her fanbase. She referenced the controversial institutionalization of RocNation CEO Desiree Perez’s daughter and used the hashtag #JusticeForDemoree, dragging an unrelated issue into the spotlight.
SZA responded in stride, defending herself and her success. “I get bullied by millions online every day then step out on a packed stadium tour,” she said. Still, she seemed to deescalate, signing off with a peaceful, “Y’all have a blessed night.”
But Minaj wasn’t done, throwing further jabs at SZA’s album SOS Deluxe: Lana and sharing resurfaced posts that allegedly show SZA insulting other female artists.
The feud highlights a recurring theme in Minaj’s career—public clashes with other women in music—and fans are split on whose side they’re on.
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