Nicky Minaj is the hottest act in rap and she’s only released one album. With an infectious style, solid rhyming and exotic looks, she’s already established herself as one of music’s reigning queens, and she pushes the envelope even further in a new photo shoot.

The singer, who can match Lady Gaga wig for wig and outrageous outfit for outfit, one ups the Paparazzi singer with voodoo-style face make-up for the cover and a spread in fashion magazine V.

The comparisons with Lady Gaga go beyond wardrobe. She has taken the hip hop world by storm much like Gaga rolled over a dozen pop princesses on her way to becoming queen of the disco ball.

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Minaj lets it be known in an accompanying interview that she is in full control of her career choices.

“Everything I do has been approved by me personally,” she says.

“My team is mostly made up of guys, but none of them would ever think about telling me what to wear, or what to do with my hair. They know that ultimately I’m gonna do what I’m gonna do.”
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And she does it.

The Trinidad and Tobago-born star released her album “Pink Friday” in November last year, and it shot up the charts, knocking everyone aside, except Susan Boyle, to finish at No. 2 on the pop charts.

The album sold its one millionth copy on Dec. 17. Nice Christmas present!

Nicki marked the occasion with a nod to her fans on Twitter.

‘Pink Friday remains the #2 Rap Album and the #4 Album in the country on Billboard’s 200. Thank you for your continued support,” she wrote.

She also gave a shout-out to her fans for covering V’s 2011 preview issue, called “The Shock Of The New.”

“Its safe to say my cover shoot in V Magazine is dedicated to my gays and fashionistas. My most bad ass shoot to date,” she Tweeted.

Nicki continued her victory lap with an appearance on Ellen DeGeneres.

“I can’t believe I’m sitting here talking to you!” she said.

Believe it. Check out Nicki’s photos (click to enlarge) and her performance on Ellen below: