Last night, Cardi B made history. Belcalis Almanzar became the first woman to ever win a Grammy as a solo rap act (Lauryn Hill won in 1996 as part of The Fugees). The Bronx-born rapper took home the statue for her debut album Invasion of Privacy in the Best Rap Album category, and gushed when she took the stage to accept the award. “The nerves are so bad,” she said. “Maybe I should start smoking weed.” Same Cardi, same.
Belcalis used the rest of her time onstage to thank her publicist, manager, friends and family. Back in the green room, Cardi posted a euphoric video on Instagram celebrating the win. “Thank you so much Bardi Gang! Thank you for always supporting me!”
The “I Like It” star even dedicated her award to the late Mac Miller, who was also up for the prize for his final studio album Swimming. “I read an article that Mac Miller’s family said that if he don’t win, they want me to win. So I’m sharing this Grammy with you, motherfucker. Rest in peace!” She went on to shout out her choreographer and glam team, and yell “Bronx in the building!” at the top of her lungs. Classic.
In yet another video, she continued to share her gratitude for all the support. “Thank you Bardi Gang because y’all love me through the good and the bad.”
“Every award to me is special,” she said. “Every award goes to my mother’s house and every award to her is just as special, and it’s just as special to me. I am so thankful.”
Watch both videos below: