By Rose Miami 
HangupsMusic.com – In a monumental achievement that further cements her legacy in the annals of hip-hop, Cardi B has officially become the first female rapper to boast four RIAA-certified diamond songs. This groundbreaking milestone was reached following the recent certification of her incendiary 2020 collaboration with Megan Thee Stallion, "WAP," which has now surpassed the 10 million units sold mark in the United States.
The certification, announced on Monday, August 3rd, marks a significant moment for both artists. For Cardi B, it represents her fourth diamond plaque, a feat unmatched by any other female rapper. Furthermore, "WAP" itself is now the first collaboration between two female rappers to achieve diamond status, underscoring the cultural impact and commercial power of the track. This also signifies Megan Thee Stallion’s first-ever diamond certification, a testament to her formidable presence in the music industry.
Released in August 2020, "WAP" was initially positioned as the lead single for what was then anticipated as Cardi B’s sophomore album, Am I the Drama?. The track, produced by Ayo the Producer and Keyz, immediately captivated audiences, debuting at the coveted number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 and rapidly ascending to become one of the most talked-about and successful songs of that year. While the release of her sophomore project would eventually be postponed by five years, "WAP" secured its place on the eventual album, its monumental success preceding the full project’s arrival.
The latest RIAA accolade places "WAP" in esteemed company within Cardi B’s discography. Her previous diamond-certified hits include her breakout 2017 anthem "Bodak Yellow," the infectious 2018 single "I Like It," a vibrant collaboration featuring Latin music superstars Bad Bunny and J Balvin, and her impactful feature on Maroon 5’s 2018 chart-topper "Girls Like You." Each of these tracks has demonstrated Cardi B’s consistent ability to craft commercially viable and culturally resonant music.
Upon hearing the news, Cardi B took to X (formerly Twitter) to express her gratitude and excitement. "Awww y’all WAP just went diamond… me and @theestallion really did that!! Love y’all so much… thank you for streaming and making history with us #WAP," she wrote, directly acknowledging Megan Thee Stallion and the collective effort that propelled the song to such heights.
Megan Thee Stallion reciprocated the sentiment, reposting Cardi B’s message and adding her own jubilant reaction. "WOWW omg diamond sisterrr thank you for having me," she exclaimed, highlighting the strong bond and mutual respect between the two artists.
The journey to diamond certification is a rigorous and prestigious one, requiring a song to achieve an equivalent of 10 million units sold in the United States. This metric encompasses digital downloads, physical album sales, and streaming equivalents, where 1,500 streams are counted as one unit. For a track to reach this level, it signifies an extraordinary level of sustained popularity and engagement from fans over an extended period.
Cardi B’s consistent presence at the top of the charts and her ability to generate multiplatinum and diamond-certified hits speak volumes about her artistry and her connection with a global fanbase. Her career trajectory, from her origins as a reality television personality to her current status as a global music icon, is a narrative of ambition, authenticity, and undeniable talent. Her impact extends beyond commercial success, as she has consistently used her platform to advocate for social issues and empower women, particularly women of color, in the music industry and beyond.
The "WAP" certification not only adds another glittering jewel to Cardi B’s already dazzling crown but also serves as a powerful statement about the evolving landscape of music consumption and the enduring power of female artistry in hip-hop. The song’s explicit lyrics and unapologetic portrayal of female sexuality sparked considerable debate and discussion upon its release, further cementing its status as a cultural phenomenon. Its ability to transcend initial controversy and achieve such a significant commercial milestone is a testament to its undeniable appeal and the artists’ bold vision.
As Cardi B continues to navigate her illustrious career, her four diamond-certified songs stand as a powerful testament to her enduring influence and her ability to consistently deliver music that resonates with millions. Her record-breaking achievement opens new doors for aspiring female artists, proving that with talent, determination, and a unique voice, the highest echelons of success are attainable. The music industry watches with anticipation to see what heights Cardi B will reach next, as she continues to redefine the boundaries of hip-hop and inspire a new generation of artists.
