Cardi B Shuts Down Criticism Over ‘WAP’ and ‘Up’ Appearing on Upcoming Album
Cardi B has addressed growing backlash over her decision to include previously released hit singles “WAP” and “Up” on her upcoming album Am I the Drama?, slated for release on September 19.
The rapper took to X (formerly Twitter) to defend her choice, saying the inclusion of the chart-topping tracks was a nod to her fans, many of whom have requested a full-length album that officially features the widely streamed singles.
“This will be the last and only time I’m gonna address this,” she wrote. “‘WAP’ and ‘Up’ are two of my biggest songs. My fans have been asking me to put them on an album, and people search for them on IOP all the time… they deserve a home.”
She added that despite the popularity of both songs – “WAP” featuring Megan Thee Stallion was a cultural phenomenon in 2020, while “Up” dominated the charts in 2021 – they won’t contribute to her album’s first-week sales, challenging critics to reconsider their outrage.
“I let haters make me not submit ‘WAP’ for the Grammys, and at this point I’m giving my fans what they want!” Cardi added. “These two songs don’t even count for first-week sales, so what are y’all even crying about? Do y’all say anything when other artists pull out all their little tricks and ponies to sell out? Exactly. Now let them eat cake. Go cry about it!”
Am I the Drama? marks Cardi’s long-anticipated sophomore album, arriving seven years after her Grammy-winning debut Invasion of Privacy. The new project will feature 23 tracks, and was officially announced earlier this week with visually striking cover art that shows the rapper dressed in an ornate red gown, flanked by crows.
In a promotional video shared on Instagram, Cardi reflected on the journey to her second album, hinting at personal growth and transformation. “Seven years and the time has come. Seven years of love, light, and loss. I’m shedding feathers and no more tears. I’m not back, I’m beyond. I’m not your villain, I’m your karma,” she said.
The rollout for Am I the Drama? began with the release of the album’s lead single, “Outside,” last Friday. On the hard-hitting track, Cardi took aim at her estranged husband, Offset, amid ongoing divorce proceedings, delivering pointed lyrics: “Good-for-nothing, low-down dirty dogs, I’m convinced / Next time you see your mama, tell her how she raised a bitch.”
As anticipation builds, Am I the Drama? is expected to further solidify Cardi B’s position as one of hip-hop’s most dynamic and unapologetic voices.
