The album features many special guests rapping and singing alongside Nicki, including Beyonce, Drake, Lil Wayne, Meek Mill, Jeremih, and Skylar Grey. Opening with the hard beat of "All Things Go," Nicki opens up in her lyrics as she addresses personal and family issues. Her vulnerability continues in "I Lied," an emotional ballad where she doesn't allow herself to fall for another man. Guitar loops run underneath "The Crying Game," another honest slow jam that features haunting background vocals from British singer Jesse Ware (who is not credited on the album).
One of Nicki Minaj's most unique characteristics is how she switches up her lyrics. "Get On Your Knees," with guest Ariana Grande, is raw and straight to the point, exampled with the verse, "I got a bow on my panties because my ass is a present." Her strong attitude continues with "Feeling Myself." A looping synth line weaves through the song as Beyonce lends support. "Only" is one of the strongest songs on the album, showcasing Nicki's aggressive lyrics over a dark beat. Drake, Lil Wayne, and Chris Brown guest on the track with some nice lines. "Want Some More" continues the hyped up energy before "Four Door Aventador" takes over with a flow that pays homage to Biggie's "Warning."
R&B singer Jeremih guests on "Favorite," in which he just wants to be Nicki's favorite. "Buy A Heart" continues with the theme of love that's found throughout The Pinkprint. One of most popular leadoff singles on The Pinkprint, "Anaconda," makes its appearance deep into the album, and features samples from Sir Mix-a-Lot's "Baby Got Back." "The Night Is Still Young" is an immediate party anthem, and "Pills N Potions" is a brooding piano ballad. Skylar Grey lends beautiful vocals in the chorus for "Bed Of Lies," which is another piano heavy tune mixed with rolling drums.
The deluxe edition of The Pinkprint features three additional songs closing out the album. Once again, Meek Mill makes an appearance for "Big Daddy," a monster rap track with heavy bass and nightmarish sound effects creeping behind it. "Shanghai" hits with heavy beats that fade in and out while Nicki raps with a no-nonsense attitude. "Win Again" cements Nicki's place in the rap game with a strong vocal delivery that touches on her career.
"The Pinkprint" is an album where you can hear Minaj's music influences, and explores a variety of genres. Pop, rap, R&B, and dance elements are found in every song, and prove that Nicki Minaj can explore many styles in her craft.
The deluxe edition of The Pinkprint is currently available on Amazon (CD, MP3) and iTunes. You can also listen to the full album stream above via Spotify.
For more music, news, videos, and tour dates from Nicki Minaj, visit her Zumic artist page.
