In the lead-up to the highly awaited release of Nicki Minaj’s latest album, “Pink Friday 2,” the rapper’s devoted fan base, known as the Barbz, has taken creativity to new heights by harnessing the power of generative artificial intelligence (AI).
Months of teasers on social media concluded in the creation of a fictional city called #GagCity, inspired by the surreal sky train journey depicted in the album’s cover art. The city, projected with an enthralling pink and dreamlike visual, has become a digital feeling, attracting not only fans but also major brands enthusiastic to join in this unique online spectacle.
we’re here to caffeinate #GAGCITY pic.twitter.com/kMVzHWUm2u
— Dunkin' (@dunkindonuts) December 7, 2023
The start of #GagCity hints back to September when Minaj unveiled the album artwork featuring her heading towards a pink city on a sky train. The Barbz community, well-known for its online engagement, wholeheartedly embraced the imagery.
Before Nicki Minaj’s new album came out, her fans playfully called the time leading up to it a journey to Gag City. They got this idea from the LGBTQ term “gag,” which means feeling overwhelmed. As the album release date got closer, fans used AI to create and share their versions of Gag City, turning a digital idea into something everyone could imagine.
11.17.23 #PinkFriday2 🎀 pic.twitter.com/Tm9ugiGAlH
— Nicki Minaj (@NICKIMINAJ) September 5, 2023
Nicki Minaj liked the AI creations of Gag City. The singer told her fans to “get ready for landing” as the album release date approached. This combination of generative AI with the artist’s story was a special moment where technology and fan culture came together. It showed how AI can help celebrities and their fan base be more creative and reach more audiences online.
This also displays the increasing power of stan culture, where dedicated fan groups have a big influence on stories and trends. Minaj’s online presence combined with the creative AI made a big digital world. Social media users, brands, and even other celebrities joined in, saying they’re citizens of Gag City.
As we begin to prepare for landing, please make sure your tray tables are put back up & your seat belts are tightly fastened. The captain has activated the “no bathroom” sign. If you look out the window, you’ll begin to see the beauty…clear waters, pink dolphins…#GagCity #PF2
— Nicki Minaj (@NICKIMINAJ) December 6, 2023
Using generative AI for creative things is not new, but “Gag City” is special. It’s a first-of-its-kind example of a fan base using this AI to get attention for a project. As the digital world keeps evolving, Nicki Minaj’s “Gag City” is a great start to how prominent people, avid fan groups, and new technologies can work together. It opens up new ways for storytelling and partnerships in the entertainment industry.
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This is so tea #GAGCITY 🥹🧡💕 https://t.co/d7nsEQs12j
— BIA (@BIABIA) December 7, 2023
