Happy Birthday Cardi B: The 5 Biggest Tracks That Made Her a Global Superstar

Cardi B, who is well-known for calling herself a “regular shmegular girl” from The Bronx, has never been one to hide her roots. However, her ascent has been everything but typical. Rap’s elite have recognized Cardi for her unadulterated sincerity, audacious personality, and raw talent ever since her explosive debut with “Bodak Yellow.” Whether she’s spitting fire songs in the studio or posting raw tirades on Instagram, Cardi’s influence has been captivating people all over the world since the beginning.

1. Yellow Bodak

“Bodak Yellow,” Cardi’s breakthrough track, was a pivotal point in her career. Cardi became the first solo female rapper to top the Billboard Hot 100 chart in almost two decades with the track’s contagious melody and strong attitude in 2017. She rose to international fame with this song, her high heels firmly placed in the rap industry.

2. I Like It (with Bad Bunny & J Balvin)

In 2018, “I Like It” became an instant hit, fusing Cardi B’s swagger with J Balvin and Bad Bunny’s beats. The Latin trap-influenced song became a cultural phenomenon as it not only peaked at No. 1 but also propelled Latin music into mainstream American pop. Cardi’s ability to easily transition between audiences and genres was cemented with this smash.

3. Megan Thee Stallion & WAP

Cardi elevated audacity to a new height in 2020 when she released “WAP,” an unrestrained hit song featuring Megan Thee Stallion. Throughout the pandemic, the song ruled the airwaves and conversations alike, peaking at No. 1 for four weeks and becoming a seminal cultural moment. “WAP” cemented Cardi’s status as an audacious musical voice that shamelessly pushes limits and sparks dialogue.

4. Up

“Up” quickly rose to the top of the charts upon its release in 2021, demonstrating that Cardi hadn’t lost her creative spark. The rapper proceeded to establish her dominance in the business with another No. 1 hit thanks to the song’s infectious chorus and constant intensity. In addition to the song’s vibrant, energetic video, Cardi’s visual prowess was enhanced.

5. Girls Like You (Cardi B & Maroon 5)

While collaborating with pop band Maroon 5 seemed like an unexpected move, it became one of Cardi’s biggest hits. “Girls Like You” dominated the Billboard Hot 100 for seven weeks in 2018, earning Cardi her first Diamond Award. The song’s crossover appeal showcases Cardi’s versatility and ability to excel in every genre, from rap to mainstream pop.

Now approaching her 32nd birthday, Cardi B remains a hip-hop pioneer, effortlessly combining Bronx-raised authenticity with global superstardom. With five number one hits under her belt and many more on the way, she’s proven her reign isn’t over yet. Fans are anxiously awaiting their next move – whether it’s another chart-hitting anthem or a long-awaited second album. Cardi B has shown us that things are always looking up in her world – and she’s definitely keeping it that way.