WHO THE #%$! IS CARDI B???

WHO THE #%$! 

IS CARDI B ???

Photo credit: Complex Magazine

If you're a Love&Hip Hop fanatic then I'm sure the name Cardi B rings a few bells. If not, by the time you finish reading this post, this feisty Bronx native is sure to be etched into your memory foreverrrr. (Only my Cardi fans understand that reference.) 

Cardi B, born Belcalis "Cardi" Almanzar, is an ex-stripper turned rapper/internet sensation. And as we all know, with fame comes negativity. Words like "slut," "stripper," "ghetto," and "hoe" seem to follow and define the young artist. 

But one word that I think best defines the wild, carefree entertainer; STRONG. In an exclusive interview with VLADTV Cardi explains how she used stripping as a means to escape domestic violence. At the time, she was living with her ex-boyfriend (who was abusing her) and was not making enough money to save up and move out. So she started stripping. 

But while Cardi keeps a light and humorous outlook on her past life. She is not encouraging other girls to make the same decisions as she did. In fact on her song "Everything", which is on her first mixtape titled Gangsta B!tch Music Vol. 1, Cardi explains how hard it was for her growing up. She talks about wanting to become successful so her family will no longer have to suffer. She also recounts the haunting thoughts of having to "trick" herself just to eat.

"That's the sh*t I did and it really makes me weak

I would close my eyes dying for it to be over

The thought of a stranger inside I just can't be sober

Dirty a*s breath breathing all over my shoulder

And no b*tch gone tell you that just respect a soldier"

What I love most about Cardi is her willingness to be open and honest. She is a great example for women everywhere. Even if you haven't been faced with the same hardships as Cardi you can relate to her. She's a very raw and real person. I admire her strength, and I admire her courage to tell her story. 

Her success and rise to fame inspires me daily. Not letting her past hold her back from her bright and promising future, Cardi stayed true to herself and rose to fame. From short 15 second rant and comedy videos, to a lead role on Love&Hip Hop, and even to dropping her first mixtape; Cardi is a force to be reckoned with. And what's even more inspiring, she uses her new-found fame as a platform to encourage girls to get their education, and follow their dreams. Cardi is a universal symbol of GIRL POWER. 

Continue to shine, Cardi B. Never let anyone stop you from chasing your dreams. This is only the beginning. 

stay classy, stay true

xo,Kenya