In June of last year, Ice Spice became embroiled in controversy after her former friend Baby Storme leaked private messages in which the Bronx rapper criticized Nicki Minaj. The revelations complicated what had appeared to be a flourishing partnership, following the success of “Princess Diana” and their modern rendition of Aqua’s “Barbie World.”

As 2024 progressed, the ripple effects became more pronounced. In a candid Rolling Stone interview, Ice Spice confirmed the texts were authentic, admitting that she had described Minaj as “ungrateful” and “delusional” in a moment of frustration. Yet her sharpest disappointment was aimed at Storme. “The saddest part of the whole situation is that someone I trusted for years exploited my openness for personal gain. I feel used, basically,” she said.

Business Hurdles, But Respect Holds

Complicating matters further were behind-the-scenes business negotiations. Minaj had sought to formalize a deal with Ice Spice, but the rising star’s commitments to two record labels created an obstacle that neither side could easily overcome. Speaking with Keke Palmer on her podcast Baby, This Is Keke Palmer, Ice Spice reflected on the timing: “Despite my efforts to let our representatives manage the situation, it was simply the wrong time for a new deal.”

Even amid these setbacks, Ice Spice has been careful to stress that her bond with Minaj remains intact. “It’s all love, as always. I still look up to her—she’s like family to me,” she said, echoing sentiments from her Rolling Stone interview: “I could have expressed my feelings better, but I have immense respect for Nicki and will always appreciate her contributions to my career and the culture.”

For now, their relationship endures, tested but not broken. While the leaks sparked intense conversation among fans and the Barbz, both artists appear committed to maintaining mutual respect. The turbulence may have complicated their collaboration, but it has not erased the admiration that originally brought them together.