Yikes is exactly what diehard Nicki Minaj fans will say once they peruse the most updated Billboard Hot 100 and notice the Rap Queen’s latest single absent just three weeks after its arrival.
The Pooh Beatz-produced number, which premiered with little notice on February 7, was lauded for what many deemed a return to form for the diva. A hard-hitting cut, that acclaim was reflected commercially as it premiered at #23 on the Hot 100 – her 108th appearance on the tally (an extension of her record among female recording artists).
The good news stopped there. See what we mean inside:
After dropping to #81 on the Hot 100 last week, the refreshed chart reveals Minaj’s latest effort has slipped off the list all together in what would’ve been its third week.
Albeit billed a promotional single, ‘Yikes’ was undoubtedly a mean to ‘temp check’ and gauge public interest in the diva’s offerings while building buzz for her yet-titled fifth studio album slated for release later this year. From where we stand, initial reaction to the song suggests she succeeded on that front.
However, here’s hoping her next tune gets a bit more of a push (i.e. live performances, official music video, etc.) to spell a more long-term win on the charts.