When Cardi B unleashed her debut album, “Invasion of Privacy,” in 2018, little did anyone anticipate that her music would continue to resonate powerfully half a decade later. The rapper stormed onto the scene, selling an impressive 255,000 album-equivalent units within the first week. Despite not releasing a second album, Cardi B remains a force in the music industry, consistently refining her artistry through features and singles that captivate audiences. Let’s delve into five standout tracks that demonstrate why Cardi B still reigns supreme.
“Be Careful”
From her debut album, “Invasion of Privacy,” “Be Careful” showcased a different facet of Cardi B’s musical repertoire. In contrast to her usual bold Bronx style, the track reveals a softer side as Cardi explores personal heartbreak. Singing the chorus herself, she issues a direct warning to the person who hurt her, emphasizing, “Be careful with me/Yeah, it’s not a threat, it’s a warnin’.”
“Bodak Yellow”
Undeniably influential, “Bodak Yellow” not only propelled Cardi B’s career but left an indelible mark on the rap industry. Drawing inspiration from Kodak Black’s “No Flockin’,” Cardi adopts Kodak’s flow and asserts her arrival with bold confidence. The track served as a declaration of her refusal to be underestimated in a male-dominated field, with the unforgettable hook, “I don’t dance now, I make money moves,” encapsulating her unapologetic stance.
“I Like It”
In 2018, Cardi B collaborated with J Balvin and Bad Bunny to create her biggest hit yet, “I Like It.” Sampling Pete Rodriguez’s “I Like It Like That,” the production seamlessly blends hip-hop and salsa, crafting the perfect summer anthem. The track not only solidified Cardi B’s chart-topping prowess but also introduced Anglo audiences to J Balvin and Bad Bunny, further expanding her musical influence.
“Money”
Following the success of her debut album, Cardi B delivered “Money,” a track that revels in the enjoyment of luxury. Building on her newfound fame, she highlights her priorities through the song. Fans eagerly anticipated a new album after “Money,” but the wait for Cardi B’s elusive follow-up continues.
“WAP”
In 2020, Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion made waves with “WAP,” a controversial anthem built on the sample of “Whores in This House” by Baltimore DJ Frank Ski. Despite pandemic lockdowns, the song’s provocative lyrics resonated with fans. Accompanied by a star-studded music video, “WAP” became an unforgettable cultural phenomenon.
Cardi B’s ability to consistently deliver chart-topping hits and maintain her influence in the industry proves that she remains a powerhouse, even without a second album. As we look forward to what she has in store, it’s clear that Cardi B’s reign is far from over.