Latto has been one of the up-and-coming rappers in the female rap game in the past few years.
Thanks to her "Big Energy" song, the rapper was catapulted into prominence. After failing to secure a feature from Nicki Minaj, she then sought the help of Mariah Carey, who later agreed to do the record with her.
Latto, formally known as Alyssa Michelle Stephens, has publicly professed her love for Minaj on many occasions. However, because of the 2023 Grammy Awards nomination drama with Minaj last year, Latto has since been on the receiving end of criticism because of her comments at the time.
Latto, Nicki Minaj Feud
Last year, a report from The Hollywood Reporter revealed that Nicki Minaj's record-breaking song "Super Freaky Girl" was recategorized into the pop category despite being a rap record.
Because of this, Minaj used Latto's "Big Energy" as an example, that if her record would be recategorized to pop from rap, then the same track should also be recategorized because it sonically sounded the same.
Latto, however, took offense at this and slammed Minaj for allegedly discrediting her success. She went on to quote tweet unnamed Nicki Minaj tirades, which the latter eventually revealed to not be about her but another TikTok content creator.
As the drama unfolded, Latto age-shamed Minaj for being a "bully" at 40 years old. The other retorted sarcastically, accusing her of age shaming after begging her for a feature on "Big Energy."
Eventually, both camps ceased fire. "Big Energy" received a nomination for Best Melodic Rap Performance, and Latto received Best New Artist award. "Super Freaky Girl" was snubbed by The Recording Academy on Song of the Year and Record of the Year nominations despite making some historical charts and cultural strides since it was released.
Latto, however, failed to win any of her nominations at the 2023 Grammy Awards.
In a recent interview with Billboard, Latto alluded to her feud with Minaj again.
"It's difficult navigating through situations like that because there's a disconnect. I will look at myself as a fan of someone and they will view [me] in a whole different light," she reflected. "It's disappointing. You just got to take it to the chin and keep pushing."
Barbz, Minaj's fans, however, pointed out that Latto had been opportunistic in starting a fight with Minaj, despite the latter just stating her song as an example.
"It's unpleasant to know that Nicki didn't say anything bad, just using it as an example, but Latto is opportunistic and thought that going against Nicki calling her old was going to bring her success," a fan posted.
"What Nicki initially said was correct and it should of been left at that ... everything else was unnecessary on both parts the dropping messages and recording phone called etc. wasn't called for," another echoed.
What do you think of Latto's statements?
READ ALSO: Nicki Minaj, Latto Feud Explained: Here's Why The Two Rappers Are Firing Online
