Jamaican entertainer and Street Cred deejay, Skeng, recently shared a backstage moment with hip-hop heavyweights Nicki Minaj and Lil Wayne at Rolling Loud California. The trio posed for a photo after the rappers’ performances at the event, showcasing a camaraderie that hinted at potential collaborations and industry connections.
Skeng, currently in California with producer Rowan “Drop Top” Melhado, is rumored to be among the artists signed to Minaj’s new imprint at Republic Records, although official confirmation is pending. During an episode of Queen Radio on Amazon Music’s AMP, Minaj announced her venture into the world of record labels, expressing her commitment to supporting and nurturing artists beyond the confines of any specific genre.
In praising Lil Wayne for his influence on her early career, Minaj highlighted the importance of mentorship and guidance in the industry. She acknowledged Lil Wayne’s impact on her trajectory, emphasizing the need for a strong support system for emerging artists. The new label reportedly includes talents such as Nana Fofie, Tate Kobang, Rico Danna, and London Hill, adding diversity across genres.
Patty Lauren, a longstanding associate of Minaj, will play a crucial role as an A&R executive at the label, contributing to its growth and success. This move reflects Minaj’s commitment to providing a structured and supportive environment for emerging talents, drawing from her own experiences in the industry.
Skeng, who inked a deal with Geejam Music in June 2022 alongside producers John Coop & Shacko Di Truth, has been building bridges with Minaj. Their collaboration on the Likkle Miss remix, produced by Drop Top and DiTruth, marked a milestone for Skeng as it earned him his first entries on the Billboard charts.
Minaj, in an October 2022 interview with Jada Pinkett-Smith for Interview Magazine, revealed Skeng as one of her recent inspirations. The deejay’s authenticity and distinctive sound caught her attention, praising him for being unapologetically himself in a genre that often sees conformity.
The dynamic duo recently made headlines during Trinidad’s annual carnival celebrations, further solidifying their connection. Minaj’s latest single, “Red Ruby Da Sleeze,” samples the iconic Diwali Riddim, showcasing her ongoing exploration of diverse sounds and influences.
As the collaboration between Skeng and Minaj continues to gain momentum, it reaffirms the power of cross-cultural musical alliances and the impact of mentorship in fostering new talent within the industry.