Nicki Minaj recently took a moment to pay tribute to her former manager Deb Antney, recognizing her constant support and encouragement throughout her career. Antney, known for managing some of hip-hop’s biggest names and for being Waka Flocka Flame’s mother, was a key figure in Nicki’s rise to stardom. Sharing her gratitude on social media, Nicki reflected on the ways Antney always had her back, especially during tough times.
A Bond Beyond Business
On February 17, Nicki shared a heartfelt tribute to Antney, revealing how deeply she appreciated the strength and reassurance Antney offered during challenging moments. “This woman is somebody who, no matter what I went through, every time I called her, she’d tell me, ‘Girl, that ain’t no big deal, stop!’” Nicki said in the video, with Antney in the background. Nicki highlighted how important it was to have a woman in the music industry genuinely support her, encouraging her to keep going.
Antney’s Impact on Hip-Hop Culture
As the CEO of Mizay Entertainment, Antney has been instrumental in shaping Atlanta’s hip-hop scene, helping to launch and guide the careers of top artists, including Gucci Mane, French Montana, and her son, Waka Flocka. Additionally, Antney established one of Atlanta’s prominent online radio stations, B100, which has become a launching pad for emerging talent.
Antney’s influence in the music world extends beyond her business savvy. She’s made several appearances on VH1’s Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta, providing fans with a glimpse into her life and her dedication to the artists she manages. But as she shared in a 2016 interview, her success is rooted in her compassionate approach to management, focusing on the well-being of the artists she works with. “I really did have a very good team at that time,” she explained. “It was about the artist…helping people was my first love.”
Antney’s Heart for Healing
Antney’s background in social work shaped her management style, making her a trusted figure for artists needing guidance and support. “I just wanted to make their dreams become reality,” she said. For Antney, it wasn’t just about industry success but about healing and empowering her artists. Her compassionate approach made her stand out in a business often defined by competitiveness and profits.
Nicki Minaj’s Candid Social Media Moments
While Nicki’s livestream with Antney was heartfelt, she sparked concern with another livestream appearance on February 15, where she showcased some erratic behavior. Switching from whispering to shouting while rapping her hit “Moment 4 Life,” Nicki also announced plans to sign fans’ chests on her upcoming Pink Friday 2 Tour, causing a stir among fans.
