Teen Vogue’s June/July cover star, Nicki Minaj, has learned to stay positive throughout her career. “I used to read the bad things people said about me. Then I asked myself, Why am I reading that when I have millions of people saying great things,” she says. “You cannot give negativity power.”

Crediting Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes, Missy “Misdemeanor” Elliot, and Nicki (Teen Vogue’s June/July cover star!) Minaj as her influences, up and coming rapper, Becky G. may just be our new favorite female artist! 

Get to know Becky before her debut EP drops this summer » 

“Color, color, color. When in doubt, add color. Then, add some more.” 

- Nicki Minaj 

What’s your beauty mantra?

When Nicki began freshman year at Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School, the famed New York City performing arts institution, things finally clicked into place. “It was the first time I felt like I really fit in. Everyone there was creative,” she says. “For once, I didn’t feel like there was something weird about me.” »

Between the award shows, platinum albums, and multiple alter egos, (Roman, Rosa, and the English-accented Martha, to name a few) Nicki Minaj has forged a public image that’s instantly recognizable worldwide.

As her ever-evolving look continues to shock and inspire us, we’ve rounded up the best beauty moments from her technicolor career »

“People treat this business like it’s high school. It can absolutely feel like one big popularity contest, and you know what? I can’t be bothered.”

- Nicki Minaj

Inspired by fashion shows, movies, and celebs including our colorful cover star, Nicki Minaj, Kailey F. of Oregon shows off a bright pink pout with winged liner as our beauty look of the day. 

Are you ready for your close up? Send us a pic and you could be featured on TeenVogue.com! »