In an unlikely turn of events, Cardi B wins her first Grammy for best rap album. Making her the first female rapper to win the category. Long overdue for female rappers. Moreover, Cardi B’s win represents the origin of the American Dream.
From a ridiculed, trolled, and undermined exotic dancer to a Grammy-Award Winner, multi-magazine cover star, and platinum selling artist. This Dominican girl from the Bronx proves that we are not defined by our past or financial status.
Instead, Cardi B’s 2019 Grammys win reminds us that the original version of what the American Dream was is very much alive and kicking. For the dreamers, the odd balls, the weirdos, for people of color, for women of color, for female rappers, for those embracing their uniqueness unapologetically, Cardi B’s win meant so much more.
Because to be in the world of entertainment is not for the faint at heart. Aside from answering to the public, the industry itself is cut-throat.
While her win may also be a topic of controversy in comparison to other artists and the Grammys selective and peculiar process for rap album wins, there’s no denying that Cardi B had plenty of people singing her songs since her debut. There’s also no denying that she’s the first to shatter the glass ceiling as is the first solo female rapper to have won Best Rap Album.
If the rap industry is really about supporting women as some claim to be, they’ll be found cheering Cardi B for her win because what was once a longshot is now an attainable conversation.
For anyone who’s ever degraded and insulted dancers in the past or present, please remember the 2019 Grammys. Here’s the girl that was taunted for her teeth, her authentic personality, sexual identity and exploration, a winner amongst many who tried but couldn’t come up on top.
Photo Credit: Jora-Frantzis
