Nicki Minaj has pulled out of a performance at the Jingle Ball to give herself time to finish her new album.
The 40-year-old rapper had been due to hit the stage for the festive event in Chicago, Illinois on Monday (04.12.23) but she cancelled her appearance at the last minute explaining she needed more time to focus on the launch of her record ‘Pink Friday 2’ which was previously delayed twice before.
In a post on X – formerly known as Twitter – she wrote: “I have to tell you something. One last thing. Hope it doesn’t make you sad. I won’t be able to perform tmrw in #Chicago for Jingle Ball. I was so excited to see you guys. Pls accept my sincerest apologies. I’ll make it up to you on the Chicago stops of my tour early next year. Details to come.”
However, Nicki confirmed her pal Lil Wayne has agreed to step in and perform in her place. She added: “My beloved brother/boss stepped up for me so that I wouldn’t have to push my album back. His name is Lil Wayne AKA the GOAT. He will perform tmrw @ the Chicago show.
“I am STILL performing @ the #Atlanta Jingle Ball on the 14th and now I’ll ALSO be performing at the #Miami Jingle Ball on the 16th. Album STILL dropping this FRIDAY.”
‘Pink Friday 2’ had initially been due for release in October but was pushed back until November 17. It was then delayed again with a new release date of December 8 to avoid clashing with Lil Wayne and 2 Chainz’s joint album ‘Welcome 2 Collegegrove’.
At the time, Nicki explained in an appearance on Instagram Live: “I have changed my album date. It’s been changed for some time now behind the scenes. Weezy [Lil Wayne] and 2 Chainz, they announced their date and you know how me and Weezy play. He would never do that if that was my album date.”