WireImage
The Roots and Nicki Minaj seemed like an odd combination. They are both hip-hop but each represents a different style of the genre. One, legendary and known for their progressive, rock-fused sound and the other, sassy and up-and-coming, known for quirky outfits, stage personas and revitalizing women in hip-hop.
During the show, the Roots proved after almost 20 years since their first album, 'Organix!' they are still a force in the music industry. At their core, the Roots are hip-hop, but their music is an eclectic fusion of jazz, funk and hardcore rock. The members are veterans, with Black Thought being one of hip-hop's greatest frontmen and Questlove owning the ability to compete with any legendary rock drummer.
At about 10:20PM Nicki Minaj hit the stage to her loyal group of Barbz and Ken Barbz, many rocking hot pink wigs. She opened with her popular diss track 'Roman's Revenge,' which some say is about her rival Lil' Kim. Rocking her blond Marge Simpson, Bride of Frankenstein-esque wig, Minaj ripped through the track, kicking, thrusting and jumping on every corner of the stage.
Watch Nicki Minaj Perform 'Roman's Revenge' at Tryx Launch
For everyone who says Nicki is just a gimmick, don't be fooled, she has performing chops. The New Yorker looked her fans right in the eye, smacked as many hands as possible and at one point signed hats, CDs and body parts. While every performer says they love their fans as a stock reply, Nicki is sincere. The love she received from New York City is what made her a star.
Backed by six dancers in pink wigs, Nicki performed favorites like 'Did It On 'Em,' 'Right Thru Me,' and her current single 'Super Bass.' She closed with 'Moment 4 Life,' her highest charting song on the pop charts.
Before leaving the stage, Nicki thanked Casio and said, "I'm a black girl from Southside Jamaica Queens in New York City -- that is why I tell you don't give up." Nicki has clearly never given up. And last night aggressively demonstrated why she has the wherewithal to survive the fickle entertainment industry.
Watch Nicki Minaj Perform 'Right Thru Me' at Tryx Launch
Download Nicki Minaj Songs | Buy Nicki Minaj Albums
Taylor Swift Dominates at 2013 Billboard Music Awards
Kellie Pickler Named 'Dancing With the Stars' Champion
Tim McGraw's 'Superstar Summer Night' Special to Air May 19
Beyonce Releases New Anthem, 'Grown Woman'
Carrie Underwood 'Goats' Hunter Hayes With Blown Away Tour Prank
Who Won 'DWTS'?
Blake Shelton Will Return for Season 5 of 'The Voice'
PHOTOS: This Is The Best Response To Abercrombie CEO Mike Jeffries We've Seen Yet
J. Cole Performs 'Born Sinner' on 'Late Night With Jimmy Fallon,' Reveals Competitive Spirit Against Kanye West
Wolf Blitzer's Embarrassing Moment With Tornado Survivor
Toby Keith Says His Hometown of Moore, Oklahoma 'Will Perservere' After Deadly Tornado
PHOTO: Dog Guards Dead Victim's Body After Oklahoma Tornado Disaster
Tim McGraw Stops Atlanta Show to Help Ailing Fan
Rescuers Continue Search For Tornado Survivors
Miguel and Fan Are 'Okay' After Crazy Kick at 2013 Billboard Music Awards
Demi Looks FANTASTIC In A Bikini
Man Reportedly Beheaded In Brutal Assault In London Neighborhood
The World's Most Powerful Women
PHOTOS: Christie Brinkley Gets Back Into A Swimsuit At 59 Years Old
Mother Dies With Infant During Oklahoma Tornado
PHOTOS: Tornado Aftermath Leaves Trail Of Destruction
NY Times Eviscerates Obama White House
15 Incredible Cat Photobombs
Singer Sues McDonald's, Claims Chicken Sandwich Incident Ruined Her Voice
Grossed Out Student Finds "Worm" In His McMuffin
CBS Reporter's Grave Allegations
Tornadoes Strike Oklahoma
Mila Kunis And Ashton Kutcher Put Their Romance On Display
PHOTOS: Tornado Devastates Moore, Oklahoma
WATCH: Tornado Victim Finds Dog During CBS Interview
Guess Who?
PHOTO: LARGEST Python Ever Caught In Florida!
Tara Ellison: Why I Gave A Toast At My Ex-Husband's Wedding
