One of the biggest songs of 2023 was Ice Spice and Nicki Minaj’s song “Barbie World,” which interpolated Aqua’s 1997 hit “Barbie Girl.” However, it wasn’t the only song to sample that song. In 2022, Saweetie previewed a clip of her own song, “Icy Girl, Icy World,” generating some impressive buzz months before “Barbie World” was tapped to feature on the Barbie film’s soundtrack. Unfortunately, her song was never released and fans awaiting the Bay Area rapper’s big comeback were left disappointed. While one of her collaborators on the song offered his own take on the situation, Saweetie never addressed why she shelved “Icy Girl”… until now.
When a fan on Twitter (never calling it “X”) posted a clip of Saweetie previewing the song during a livestream and asked, “What happened to this?” Saweetie’s response was short and simple. “Warner wouldn’t clear it,” she explained.
Although it appears Saweetie is still signed to the label, she hasn’t been shy about calling out Warner in the past. Earlier this month, she called on the label to approve the budget for the rollout of her single “Nani,” which she’s been teasing for weeks. And in 2020, she vented her frustrations with the label for flubbing the release of her song “Best Friend” with Doja Cat.
Meanwhile, although Saweetie said she didn’t mind Nicki Minaj and Ice Spice “borrowing” her idea for the Barbie soundtrack, her co-writer on the song, Jason Martin (fka Problem), censured the bigger star for what he saw as dirty business. “I can confirm this song and idea was sent to her last year to submit for the Barbie movie,” he posted on Twitter. “It’s sad to see that the original artist has been pushed off a song that was her idea and was meant for both of them.”
Diamonté Quiava Valentin Harper, the artist now known worldwide as Saweetie, is a captivating rapper from the sunny climes of Santa Clara, California. She grew up with a musical landscape punctuated by MC Hammer, Salt-N-Pepa, and, of course, Tupac. Her strong, family-driven upbringing helped foster a fiercely independent spirit that would propel her from humble beginnings to a thriving career in the music industry.
A gifted scholar, she earned a full-ride to the University of Southern California, where she juggled books by day and honed her musical talents by night. In 2016, a video of her freestyling over the beat from Khia’s “My Neck, My Back” in her car catapulted her into the public eye, so Saweetie was born. Today, she boasts an impressive net worth of $5 million in 2024, according to CAKnowledge.
Gold Records & Platinum Hits
Saweetie’s first major hit, “Icy Grl,” quickly went viral, offering a taste of the artist’s fiery lyricism and irresistible hooks. The track, which landed her a deal with Warner Records, went on to achieve RIAA platinum status. High Maintenance, her debut extended play, demonstrated Saweetie’s capacity for delivering catchy hits. With tracks like “B.A.N.” and “Agua,” the album won over critics and fans alike. Her follow-up, Icy, proved she was no flash in the pan, with the Gold-certified “My Type” becoming a summer anthem.
Beats & Bling: Personal Life
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 08: Saweetie performs onstage during AT&T Playoff Playlist Live at Banc of California Stadium on January 08, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images)
Saweetie has carved a unique niche with bold fashion choices, establishing herself as a style icon. Her icy aesthetic, showcased in countless red carpet appearances, mirrors her equally cool and confident music. Meanwhile, in her personal life, Saweetie has been open about her former high-profile relationship with fellow rapper Quavo. Despite the spotlight on their romance, she has maintained a steadfast focus on her craft, staying committed to her mantra of female empowerment and hustle.
The Sweet Life: Other Business Ventures & Philanthropy
INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA – MARCH 03: Rapper Saweetie performs onstage during the first day of Rolling Loud Los Angeles 2023 at Hollywood Park Grounds on March 03, 2023 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Scott Dudelson/Getty Images)
Not one to limit herself, Saweetie expanded her empire into the world of fashion and beauty. She collaborated with PrettyLittleThing for a clothing line, revealing her flair for design. Her makeup collection with Morphe further underscored her ability to diversify her brand. When it comes to giving back, Saweetie’s heart is as large as her ambition. She established the Icy Baby Foundation, a non-profit focused on empowering and uplifting young people in underprivileged communities.
Cold As Ice: Wrapping Up Saweetie’s Story
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 23: Saweetie attends a basketball game between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Golden State Warriors at Crypto.com Arena on February 23, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Allen Berezovsky/Getty Images)
From her university days to chart-topping hits, Saweetie’s journey is a thrilling melody of resilience, dedication, and determination. Her songs serve as anthems for a new generation, inspiring millions to dance, dream, and defy expectations. A pioneer, a trendsetter, and a powerhouse, Saweetie has transformed her love for music into a $5 million empire. One thing is certain: her music, style, and influence will continue to blaze a trail in the industry, a tune as mesmerizing and memorable as the artist herself.
(@Saweetie) April 21, 2024
