Missy Elliott Caught Some heat From the Barbz After “Classics Vs. Hits” Question
Missy Elliott asked her Twitter followers what makes a record a ‘hit’ or ‘classic,’ prompting some to think she was shading Nicki Minaj.
Missy Elliott denies shading Nicki Minaj after asking her Twitter followers about the difference between a “hit” and “classic.” Two days after Minaj made Billboard Hot 100 history with new No. 1 single “Super Freaky Girl,” the Supa Dupa Fly rapper, producer and singer-songwriter found herself getting confronted by the Barbz after asking a seemingly innocent question.
I have a question…Is there a difference between A Hit & A Classic record or no? and if so what is this difference?
— Missy Elliott (@MissyElliott) August 24, 2022
Avid Minaj fans pressed Elliott about her catalog, even going as far as saying she has zero classics.
Missy Elliott always have something to say surrounding Nicki Minaj indirectly. I see her dirty spirit. It's been like that for years. Give it up mama. pic.twitter.com/Xv12t54A33
— Feat N M ? (@FeatNickiMinaj) August 24, 2022
All because Missy asked a question. pic.twitter.com/fXGIyEpQe6
— nimmi ? (@blackandbougie3) August 24, 2022
Two weeks ago, Minaj and Elliott gave each other flowers when it was announced that the “Super Freaky Girl” rapper would be awarded the MTV VMA Video Vanguard Award. In 2019, Elliott won the prestigious award, taking the stage with a career-spanning performance of songs “The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly),” “Hot Boyz,” “Get UR Freak On,” “Work It,” “Pass That Dutch” and “Lose Control.”
Mumbling & cackling ??? ?? nah omg thank you Missy.
You kicked down this ?.
Nothing but Love & Respect for your iconic artistry ? #VMAs #NickiVmas #VideoVanguard https://t.co/TB4kUWjiki— Nicki Minaj (@NICKIMINAJ) August 8, 2022
After Elliott’s question was taken out of context, the four-time Grammy winner clarified her original tweet.
I love so many of yall answers?This was a back & forth with my producer friends over https://t.co/TKu1vfK26P there a difference between Classics & hits & he said it’s more preference. So y’all helped??A few chose 2 be hurtful but understand this came from a positive place?
— Missy Elliott (@MissyElliott) August 24, 2022
Despite the Barbz going after Elliott, her hometown of Portsmouth, Virginia is honoring the multi-hyphenate artist with naming a boulevard in a new entertainment district after her. According to Fox 9, the 1-mile section of McLean Street will be renamed Missy Elliott Boulevard. The area will stretch from Portsmouth’s Airline Boulevard and Greenwood Drive near Tidewater Community College and Portsmouth Rivers Casino, set to open in early 2023.
On August 9, Elliott went to Twitter with the announcement, also sharing her gratitude for the Portsmouth City Council.
I am so Humbly Grateful??? #757 VA 2 up 2 down✌????? i been through many ups & downs & times I wanted to give up but Gods plan was different! & all I can do is say Thank you?? & Thank you to everyone on the City Counsel I am so GRATEFUL for EVERYTHING ??? https://t.co/LHUFunQIoc
— Missy Elliott (@MissyElliott) August 10, 2022