CLEVELAND — On Saturday, fans of rap superstar Nicki Minaj were given their "moment for life" at a surprise meet-and-greet in Cleveland with the twelve-time Grammy-nominated artist.
Minaj’s appearance was announced on X Friday night, following her performance at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse.
The cryptic message read: "DTLR in-store tomorrow in Cleveland."
Fans waited for hours at Tower City for the one they call Queen Nicki Minaj. Like any queen, she arrived a little late, but fans said the wait was worth it.
“It’s Nicki Minaj. It’s the queen of rap. It’s Nicki the ninja, Nicki the Barbie, duh,” said Brandi Mansour, a Nicki Minaj fan.
Minaj’s followers, or as they’re known, "The Barbz," chanted for hours to summon their queen.
“Right when we found out, we booked our tickets, our flights, our hotel, and then just came,” said Iman Bazzi, a Nicki Minaj fan.
The star’s appearance came as she dipped her toes into the fashion industry, promoting her newest shoe collaboration, Loci, with London designer Frank Eribo.
“I’m honored that they rock with the sneakers, that they wanted to partner up with us. It’s just a dream come true, so that’s why I’m here,” Minaj told 3News reporter Bryant McCray.
When McCray asked Minaj about her thoughts on Cleveland, she said the city holds a special place in her heart.
“I am in love with Cleveland. I’ve been in love with Cleveland. This is not a just-started thing, like I’ve been rocking with Cleveland, so let that be known."
For some fans, Minaj is more than just a star—she’s a source of inspiration.
“I would just tell her thank you so much for inspiring me to keep going when it’s tough. Thank you for all the encouraging words through this journey of life, and for inspiring me to be the greatest I can ever be,” said Tamika McPherson, a Nicki Minaj fan.
The Loci shoes retail between $150 and $200, and are sold at DTLR location in store and online.