Cardi B | Biography

• By Stone Palmer
• Original : April 02, 2025

Who is Cardi B?

Cardi B, born Belcalis Almanzar on October 11, 1992, in New York City, has emerged as one of the most influential figures in modern hip-hop. Growing up in the Bronx, she embraced her mixed Caribbean heritage—her mother is Trinidadian and her father is Dominican. Before launching her music career, Cardi gained attention through her candid social media presence, illustrating her experiences as a stripper. This visibility led to her breakout role on VH1's "Love & Hip Hop: New York", where her bold personality captivated audiences, ultimately paving the way for her transition into music.

In 2017, Cardi B made history with her debut single “Bodak Yellow,” which topped the Billboard Hot 100, making her the first female rapper to achieve this milestone with a solo single since Lauryn Hill's “Doo Wop (That Thing)” in 1998. Following this success, her debut album, "Invasion of Privacy", released in 2018, received widespread acclaim and earned her the Grammy for Best Rap Album, making Cardi the first solo female artist to win this prestigious award. With hits like “I Like It” and “WAP,” Cardi B has solidified her position as a pop culture icon and a formidable force in the music industry.

Early Life and Education

Cardi B, born Belcalis Almanzar on October 11, 1992, in New York City, grew up in the Bronx and spent significant time in Washington Heights with her grandmother. Growing up in a culturally diverse environment, she is of mixed Caribbean descent—her mother hails from Trinidad and her father is Dominican. This rich heritage played a key role in shaping her vibrant personality and unique artistic style. Cardi's early life was marked by challenges, including poverty and exposure to gang culture, as she was affiliated with the Bloods gang during her teenage years.

In terms of education, Cardi B attended the Renaissance High School for Musical Theater & Technology, which laid a foundation for her creative pursuits. Although she initially aimed to pursue a career in the performing arts, personal circumstances led her to make the bold decision to become a stripper. Cardi's experience in this line of work not only helped her escape an abusive relationship but also provided a sense of empowerment. She later reflected on this decision positively, emphasizing that stripping opened up new avenues for her personal and professional growth, helping her finance her education and ultimately leading her to fame.

Career Rise with Reality TV and Music

Cardi B, born Belcalis Almanzar on October 11, 1992, in New York City, burst onto the music scene after establishing herself as a reality TV star. Her rise began in 2015 when she joined the cast of VH1’s reality show "Love & Hip Hop: New York." Known for her candid personality and unfiltered commentary on life, Cardi B quickly became a fan favorite. Her charisma and relatable story resonated with audiences, providing her with a platform to showcase her musical talent. Leaving the show in 2017, she made a decisive move towards her music career, setting the stage for her phenomenal breakthrough.

In 2017, Cardi B released "Bodak Yellow," which achieved unprecedented success, topping the Billboard Hot 100 chart and marking a significant milestone as the first diamond-certified single for a female rapper. Following this hit, her debut album, "Invasion of Privacy," showcased her versatility as an artist, featuring collaborations with high-profile artists and earning her a Grammy for Best Rap Album. Cardi's musical career reflects her journey from humble beginnings to becoming a global icon, constantly breaking barriers in a predominantly male industry. Her story encapsulates empowerment, resilience, and the transformative power of music, as she continues to evolve as an artist while navigating personal challenges.

Success with Invasion of Privacy and Grammy Wins

Cardi B's debut studio album, "Invasion of Privacy", released in April 2018, marked a monumental point in her career, showcasing her musical range and lyrical prowess. Blending hip-hop with elements of Latin music, the album included chart-topping hits such as "Bodak Yellow," "I Like It," and "Be Careful." It shattered streaming records, becoming the most-streamed female album on Apple Music in its first week. The album's success solidified Cardi as a formidable force in the music industry, earning acclaim from critics and fans alike. Its diverse tracks illustrated her ability to merge different genres, appealing to a wide audience.

Recognition for her work culminated in four Grammy nominations at the 2019 awards, where Cardi made history by becoming the first solo female artist to win the Grammy for Best Rap Album. "Invasion of Privacy" was praised not just for its commercial success but for its narrative depth, as Cardi candidly shared her life experiences and struggles. The album’s impact extended beyond charts, resonating with listeners and elevating Cardi B's status as a cultural icon. Her Grammy win was a crowning achievement, highlighting her journey from social media sensation to a respected artist in the music landscape.

Personal Life: Married Life with Offset and Children

Cardi B, born Belcalis Almanzar, has had a tumultuous relationship with her husband, Offset, a fellow rapper and member of the group Migos. The couple began their romantic journey in early 2017 and celebrated a secret wedding in September of the same year, with only Cardi's cousin present. Though their marriage episode was filled with passionate moments, it was overshadowed by various challenges, including Offset’s infidelity. Despite these struggles, the couple welcomed their first child, Kulture Cephus, in July 2018, which momentarily brought them closer. However, their relationship experienced several ups and downs, including a brief separation and reconciliation.

Cardi B and Offset expanded their family further with the birth of their son, Wave Cephus, in September 2021. Following this, Cardi announced her third pregnancy in 2024, reflecting on the joy of motherhood amidst her complex relationship dynamics with Offset. The couple is currently in the process of divorcing, which Cardi has addressed publicly, expressing her feelings towards the relationship while affirming her love for their children. As they navigate co-parenting, both Cardi and Offset remain committed to raising their kids together while processing their individual journeys.

Net Worth and Earning: Cardi B's income

Cardi B, born Belcalis Almanzar, has established herself as a powerhouse in the music industry both creatively and financially. Over the years, her musical career has blossomed, notably with breakout hits like "Bodak Yellow," which propelled her to fame and earned her a diamond certification. Aside from her music, Cardi has diversified her income streams through various endorsements, brand collaborations, and reality television appearances. Her unique blend of talent and business acumen positions her among the highest-earning female rappers today.

In addition to her musical achievements, Cardi B has leveraged her social media following to market products ranging from fashion lines to beauty brands. Her social media platforms, particularly Instagram, generate significant revenue opportunities through sponsored posts and advertisements, adding to her financial portfolio. As of 2023, her estimated net worth is reported to be around $40 million, underlining her status as not just an artist, but also a savvy businesswoman in the entertainment industry. Cardi B continues to evolve, exploring new ventures and nurturing her brand while staying committed to her artistry.