The highly-anticipated collaboration between Nicki Minaj and Kanye West, titled “New Body,” has hit a roadblock, with Minaj making it clear that the chance for its inclusion on West’s upcoming album, Vultures, has passed. The saga of “New Body” dates back to 2018, and recent events suggest that the duo’s musical partnership is not set for revival.
On Thursday, Kanye West took to social media to share a text message he sent to Minaj, seeking permission to include “New Body” on the Vultures album, a project crafted with Ty Dolla $ign under the moniker ¥$. The rapper’s message expressed his interest in clearing the track for the new album.
While Minaj did not immediately respond to West’s text, she addressed the matter during an Instagram Live session, asserting that the opportune moment for the song had passed. In her words, “Now regarding Kanye, that train has left the station, OK? No disrespect in any way, I just put out a brand new album. Now why would I put out a song that has been out for three years? Come on guys. You know?”
“New Body” was initially recorded in 2018 for Kanye West’s Yandhi album, which was eventually shelved. The rapper later considered transforming it into a gospel song for his 2019 record, Jesus Is King, a move that didn’t align with Minaj’s vision for the track.
Despite the song leaking and gaining popularity on TikTok, Minaj has consistently maintained that its official release is unlikely. In a February 2022 interview, she referred to “New Body” as “the biggest hit record that never came out,” emphasizing that the ship had sailed for the track.
As the fate of “New Body” remains uncertain, Minaj is reveling in the success of her recent album, Pink Friday 2. Packed with collaborations featuring A-list artists like Drake, 50 Cent, J. Cole, Lil Wayne, and more, the album has become a source of pride for Minaj.
Meanwhile, Kanye West has faced controversies, particularly related to antisemitic comments, leading to the loss of business deals and his billionaire status. Amidst the tumult, the curtain falls on the possibility of “New Body” making a fresh debut on Vultures, leaving fans to ponder what might have been.