Cardi B has officially made history again, cementing her status as the best-selling female rapper in the United States. According to the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), the Grammy-winning rapper’s total certified career sales have now reached 77 million units, surpassing fellow rap powerhouses Nicki Minaj and Doja Cat.
The achievement coincides with the release of her latest studio album, Am I the Drama, which became the fastest album by a female rapper to go Platinum on the day of its release.
‘Bodak Yellow’ Breaks Another Record
Cardi’s breakout hit “Bodak Yellow” continues to be a defining record in her career. The chart-topping anthem, which made her the first solo female rapper to top the Billboard Hot 100 in nearly two decades, is now recognized as the highest-certified traditional single by a woman of color in RIAA history.
This new record further solidifies “Bodak Yellow” as one of the most successful rap songs ever released by a female artist — a track that launched Cardi B from social media fame to global superstardom.
Surpassing Nicki Minaj and Doja Cat
The RIAA update not only celebrated Cardi’s new album but also refreshed certifications for several of her biggest hits, including “WAP,” “Up,” “Press,” “Money,” and tracks from her debut album Invasion of Privacy.
With these updates, Cardi B’s cumulative certified sales now stand at 77 million units, putting her ahead of Nicki Minaj (65.5 million) and Doja Cat (60.5 million). This makes her the most commercially successful female rapper in U.S. music history when combining album and single certifications.
Where Cardi B Ranks Among All Female Artists
Among all female artists in the United States, Cardi B now ranks 14th overall in RIAA-certified career sales. The top positions remain dominated by pop and R&B legends such as Taylor Swift (242.5 million), Rihanna (217 million), Beyoncé (198.5 million), and Mariah Carey (150.5 million).
Cardi’s rapid ascent to the top tier of RIAA rankings underscores her unmatched impact in hip-hop and pop culture. Despite having released only two studio albums, her consistent dominance on streaming platforms and radio airplay reflects her ongoing influence and mass appeal.
A Legacy Still in Motion
As Am I the Drama continues to climb charts globally, fans and industry watchers are eager to see what milestones Cardi B breaks next.
Her blend of authenticity, charisma, and relentless work ethic has kept her at the forefront of music since her 2017 debut — proving that her reign in rap is far from over.
Note: The RIAA only credits certifications to lead artists. Any certified song where an artist is listed as a feature does not count toward their official career total.
