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Nicki Minaj Celebrates Major Shakeups at Cardi B’s Label, Warner Music Group

BY JO Mensah September 21, 2024 3:43 PM EDT
Nicki Minaj
Nicki Minaj Photo source: Instagram/@nickiminaj

Nicki Minaj appears to be reveling in the recent shakeups at Cardi B’s record label, Warner Music Group, as a wave of high-profile executives has been ousted in a major restructuring.

Among the most notable departures are Julie Greenwald, the head of Atlantic Records, and Kevin Liles, the CEO of 300 Entertainment. Both executives were integral to the label’s growth, but their exits are part of a broader leadership overhaul that sees Elliott Grainge stepping in as CEO of Warner Music Group.

Minaj, signed to Republic and Young Money under Universal Music Group, took to X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday to comment on the layoffs. In a series of posts, she appeared to gloat over the changes, suggesting that her rivals might need to explore new job opportunities. She even referenced her imprint, Heavy On It, launched last year.

The rapper seemed to take particular satisfaction in the news, adding a lighthearted jab at her industry competitors, further fueling the ongoing tensions between her and Cardi B, who is signed to Atlantic Records. Their feud, which dates back to 2018, has remained a prominent fixture in the music industry, with fans of both artists closely monitoring any potential drama between them.

Warner Music Group’s restructuring will affect approximately 150 to 175 employees, including senior executives across various labels. According to Billboard, Atlantic Records, 300 Entertainment, and Elektra Records will all see significant cuts.

In a memo, Warner Music Group’s CEO Robert Kyncl expressed his gratitude to the departing staff members, acknowledging their hard work and contributions to the company. However, the leadership change signals a new direction for the conglomerate under Grainge, who is expected to introduce a fresh managerial structure.

Minaj’s celebration of these layoffs comes amid ongoing claims that Atlantic Records once tried to entice British rapper Lady Leshurr to diss the ‘Pink Friday 2’ rapper in exchange for a lucrative recording deal. 

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