Michael Becker / FOXYou'd think after all the backstage drama, on-camera fights and lackluster ratings, Nicki Minaj's American Idol gig was less than fun for her. But you'd be wrong, according to the singer herself.
"My experience was great! It was a blessing," she told us exclusively at the launch of Myx Fusions Moscato in New York on Thursday. "I had a wonderful time and I learned a lot about myself; I learned a lot about the world's perception of me. And I think it was a great thing for hip-hop to see me transcend, and then I can come come back and still do the BET Awards and still be authentic in what I do."
But Minaj wasn't just part of the Idol machine for her career, but to help out the aspiring singers throughout the competition.
"It was really inspiring, and I got a chance to see kids fulfill their dreams and be part of that," she said. "No complaints whatsoever!"
Of course we had to ask who she thinks would be good to replace her and the rest of the judging panel, who all jumped ship after season 12 wrapped—except for Keith Urban, who has yet to make an official announcement. We've already reported that Fox is courting Idol alums for next season, including Jennifer Hudson. But like the rest of the country, Minaj has no clue who should be the judges.
"I have no idea, but God bless them!" she laughed when we asked who should fill in for her. And the idea of her appearing on a spinning red chair on The Voice?
"You never know, anything can happen!" she answered coyly.
Would you like to see Nicki Minaj on The Voice? Who do you think should be Idol judges next year?
—Reporting by Jennifer Cooper