Joe Budden declines Nicki Minaj’s offer to perform “pump it up” on tour

Joe Budden, a seasoned rapper and influential podcaster, recently found himself at a crossroads when Nicki Minaj extended a surprising invitation. As the Pink Friday 2 Tour rolled into Newark, New Jersey, Minaj reached out to Budden just 30 minutes before her show, sparking a whirlwind of emotions and decisions.

The invitation

In a candid moment, Minaj contacted Budden, proposing that he join her on stage for a special performance of his iconic track, “Pump It Up.” The unexpected offer caught Budden off guard, leaving him to weigh the pros and cons of stepping back into the limelight.

"Nicki hit me last night, said Budden. “She hit me when she was about to go on in Jersey, I was home. She didn’t say, ‘Yo, come out to Jersey’ and do that. She was 30 minutes from going on stage and she hit me. I said, ‘I want to go to the New York show.’ And she said, ‘Yeah, you’re gonna come out and do ‘Pump it Up.’"

Budden’s reasoning

Budden’s response was swift: he politely declined Minaj’s invitation. But why? The rapper-turned-media-personality revealed that his decision wasn’t about forgetting the lyrics or lacking enthusiasm. Instead, it centered around the physical demands of performing.

"It ain’t the words, Budden explained. “It’s my body. I gotta go out there and act hype, and I don’t know, I ain’t hype … I ain’t hype no more."

Nicki Minaj’s show

While Budden opted out, Minaj’s show was far from lacking surprises. She delighted fans by bringing out unexpected guests, including Fivio Foreign and Jadakiss. The energy in the arena soared as these hip-hop heavyweights graced the stage alongside the Trinidadian superstar.

Nicki Minaj's Pink Friday 2 World Tour was a sensational musical odyssey that enraptured fans across North America and Europe. With her signature flair and boundless energy, Nicki delivered electrifying performances, effortlessly blending her iconic hits with tracks from her latest album. From sold-out arenas to prominent festival appearances, each show was a testament to her status as the queen of rap, leaving audiences spellbound and craving more.

The tour not only celebrated Nicki's fifth studio album, "Pink Friday 2," but also showcased her versatility as an artist through collaborations with industry heavyweights like Future, Drake, and J. Cole. Tracks like "Last Time I Saw You" and "Super Freaky Girl" set the stage ablaze, solidifying Nicki's position as a powerhouse in the rap scene.

Whether she was dazzling fans with her fierce fashion choices or engaging with the crowd, Nicki Minaj's tour was a showcase of unapologetic artistry and empowerment, leaving an indelible mark on all who were fortunate enough to witness it firsthand.

Legacy of “pump it up”

“Pump It Up,” released in the early 2000s, catapulted Joe Budden to fame. Its infectious beat and memorable lyrics became anthems for a generation of hip-hop enthusiasts. Even though Budden declined the recent opportunity, the legacy of “Pump It Up” continues to resonate within the genre.

What's Joe Budden up to now?

Budden’s unmistakable voice resonates through the digital airwaves as he hosts The Joe Budden Podcast. Alongside co-hosts Rory Farrell and Mal, Budden dissects hip-hop, pop culture, and current events. Their candid discussions, witty banter, and unfiltered perspectives have garnered a devoted following. Whether they’re debating the latest album drops or dissecting industry drama, the podcast remains a must-listen for fans and curious minds alike.

Budden’s media prowess extends beyond audio waves. As a co-host on State of the Culture, he dives deep into the pulse of urban entertainment. From rap beefs to societal shifts, Budden’s sharp analysis keeps viewers engaged. His no-holds-barred approach ensures that no topic is off-limits. Whether he’s critiquing artists’ moves or dissecting cultural nuances, Budden’s presence adds an authentic edge to the show.

In the end, Joe Budden’s decision reflects the complex interplay of nostalgia, physical limitations, and artistic evolution. As fans reminisce about the hit single, they also witness the ever-evolving landscape of hip-hop—a testament to the enduring power of music.