Cardi B has always been outspoken, but when her name starts trending for the wrong reasons, she doesn’t stay quiet for long. After her recent performance in Saudi Arabia, online chatter quickly turned into full-blown speculation, with some users claiming the rap star was paid to promote the country beyond her appearance on stage.
In today’s hip hop, where every move is dissected and every quote can spark debate, silence often allows rumors to grow. That’s exactly why Cardi chose to address the conversation head-on. Instead of letting social media narratives define her experience, she decided to speak directly to her fans in her own words.
This moment goes beyond one performance or one viral clip. It touches on how rap artists navigate global stages, cultural expectations, and loyal fan bases across borders. Cardi B’s response offers insight into her mindset, her evolving perspective, and why she believes honesty with fans matters more than public opinion.
Cardi B responds to Saudi Arabia promotion claims
During an Instagram Live now circulating on social media, the Am I the Drama? artist directly denied claims that she was paid to promote Saudi Arabia beyond her performance fee.
“I see certain people saying that, like, the things that I’ve been saying about Saudi Arabia, like I got paid for that, like for promo or something like that,” she said. “I wanna make it very clear: I only got paid to perform out there.”
Cardi made it clear that her comments were not sponsored and that no additional money was involved. According to her, everything she shared was based on her personal experience, not a business agreement.
Cardi B shares honest experience
While discussing her trip, Cardi explained that some of her long-held beliefs about the country were challenged. She acknowledged that Saudi Arabia still has strict rules, especially when it comes to dress codes and alcohol.
However, she also expressed surprise at how everyday life looked for many women she encountered. Cardi described them as living “very regular, cool” lives, a contrast to what she previously imagined.
She also noted that Saudi Arabia remains deeply religious, but from her point of view, progress has been made over time.
Cardi B also addressed the ongoing debate in hip hop about artists refusing to perform in certain countries as a form of protest. She admitted her stance has changed.
“Things have definitely changed out there,” she said. “I think it’s a very friendly country. The people are amazing. And I remember when, like, a lot of artists, including myself, refused to go out there because of the laws. But to be honest with you, that doesn’t affect nobody but the fans and the people out there…”
For Cardi, the focus is now on the fans. She believes skipping shows hurts everyday supporters more than those in power, a perspective that continues to spark discussion in rap and hip hop culture.