What makes Tusa by Nicki Minaj notable?

'Tusa' became a cultural phenomenon, topping charts in multiple countries and earning platinum certifications across several markets. Its success on platforms like Spotify, where it amassed hundreds of millions of streams, reflects its major impact on contemporary pop and Latin music, influencing subsequent collaborations in the genre. Released at the start of 2019, 'Tusa' marked a significant moment in Nicki Minaj's career following her 2018 album 'Queen'. This collaboration with Karol G showcased Minaj's adaptability within Latin music and solidified her presence in the growing reggaeton scene, further expanding her global appeal.

How many songs are on Tusa?

Tusa has 1 track, running approximately 3 minutes.

Tusa

Nicki Minaj · 2019

3 min · 1 track · contemporary R&B

A vibrant blend of reggaeton and trap beats, underscored by an irresistible pop sensibility and smooth vocal interplay.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Tusa — The track exemplifies the fusion of hip-hop and reggaeton, highlighting Minaj's versatility while featuring a catchy chorus that became a viral sensation.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

56 /100

Foothills

Higher than 47% of albums we've rated

The song blends reggaeton and trap effectively while showcasing strong vocal dynamics.

What we noticed

The song features a call-and-response structure between Nicki Minaj and Karol G, creating a dynamic vocal interplay.
The production employs a reggaeton rhythm with trap elements, giving it a danceable quality that drives the track.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 8/10

Defined its genre or moment. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Showcased adaptability and achieved significant chart success, enhancing Minaj's recognition.
Themes: reggaeton fusion· viral pop sensation· Latin music collaboration
Moods: Energetic· Uplifting
Career context: Released at the start of 2019, 'Tusa' marked a significant moment in Nicki Minaj's career following her 2018 album 'Queen'. This collaboration with Karol G showcased Minaj's adaptability within Latin music and solidified her presence in the growing reggaeton scene, further expanding her global appeal.
Stylistic neighbors: Megan Thee Stallion· Doja Cat· Lil' Kim