The chart-topping anthem "WAP" by Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion has officially achieved RIAA Diamond certification, marking a significant milestone for both artists and the hip-hop genre. The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) confirmed the diamond status on Monday, August 3rd, signifying 10 million units sold in the United States. This achievement underscores the immense cultural and commercial impact of the collaboration.
Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion took to social media platform X, formerly Twitter, to share their excitement and acknowledge the monumental accomplishment. Cardi B expressed her gratitude to fans for their continuous support, stating, "Awww y’all WAP just went diamond… me and @theestallion really did that!! Love y’all so much… thank you for streaming and making history with us #WAP." Megan Thee Stallion echoed the sentiment, responding with a celebratory message, "WOWW omg diamond sisterrr thank you for having me!"
The diamond certification adds another prestigious accolade to Cardi B’s already impressive discography. She now holds the record for the most diamond-certified songs by any female rapper, with "WAP" marking her fourth. This achievement solidifies her position as a dominant force in the music industry. For Megan Thee Stallion, "WAP" represents her first diamond-certified single, a testament to her rapidly ascending career and undeniable star power.
The Genesis and Impact of "WAP"
Released in August 2020 at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, "WAP" immediately made waves for its unapologetic lyrics and assertive portrayal of female sexuality. The track debuted at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, becoming the first-ever collaboration between female rappers to achieve this feat. It held the top spot for four non-consecutive weeks, dominating airwaves and streaming platforms globally.
The music video accompanying "WAP," featuring a cameo by reality television star Kylie Jenner, further amplified the song’s reach. It quickly garnered millions of views on YouTube, becoming a visual phenomenon that sparked widespread discussion and admiration. The video’s extravagant visuals and confident performances cemented the song’s status as a cultural touchstone.
Cardi B has previously shared insights into the creation of "WAP," revealing her initial vision for a multi-artist collaboration. In a 2020 interview with Hot 97, she explained, "I been had this record for a long time. I wanted it to be like four, five females." She recounted the seamless creative process with Megan Thee Stallion, noting the infectious energy of the track. "It was just such a good vibe. When I heard the song, I thought she only put one verse… I didn’t even know she put a verse almost at the end of it… It was just too fire."
A History of Chart Dominance and Performance Milestones
The success of "WAP" extended beyond its commercial performance, translating into significant cultural moments. Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion delivered a memorable live performance of the anthem at the 2021 Grammy Awards, generating considerable buzz. The duo later reunited on stage during Cardi B’s headline set at Wireless Festival in 2022, thrilling fans with their electrifying chemistry.
The song’s explicit nature and bold subject matter also ignited conversations about female empowerment, artistic freedom, and the double standards often applied to women in music. While some critics and conservative groups voiced objections, "WAP" was largely celebrated by fans and music industry observers for its groundbreaking approach and its role in pushing boundaries within the hip-hop landscape.
Cardi B’s Continued Reign in Hip-Hop
The diamond certification for "WAP" arrives as Cardi B continues to solidify her legacy in hip-hop. Her status as the female rapper with the most diamond plaques underscores her consistent ability to produce commercially successful and culturally impactful music. This milestone reinforces her influence and enduring appeal in a competitive industry.
Cardi B has been actively engaging her fanbase with new music. Her single "Hot Shit," released in July 2023, preceded her subsequent release, "Enough (Miami)," in August. These recent tracks signal her ongoing commitment to delivering fresh material and maintaining her momentum in the music scene, following her critically acclaimed 2025 project, Am I the Drama?
Megan Thee Stallion’s Rise to Superstardom
For Megan Thee Stallion, the diamond certification of "WAP" is a pivotal moment in her burgeoning career. Known for her assertive lyrics, infectious charisma, and entrepreneurial spirit, the Houston native has rapidly become one of the most prominent voices in contemporary hip-hop. Her debut studio album, Good News, released in 2020, received critical acclaim and commercial success, further establishing her as a formidable artist.
Megan Thee Stallion’s journey from independent artist to global superstar has been marked by a series of hit singles and collaborations. Her ability to seamlessly blend confident storytelling with catchy hooks has resonated with a diverse audience, solidifying her status as a cultural icon. The diamond certification for "WAP" serves as a powerful validation of her impact and her integral role in shaping the modern hip-hop soundscape.
The Broader Implications of "WAP"’s Success
The diamond status of "WAP" highlights the enduring power of collaborative efforts between female artists in hip-hop. It demonstrates that when talented women unite, they can achieve unprecedented commercial success and leave an indelible mark on popular culture. The song’s longevity and continued streaming performance indicate its lasting appeal and its significance as more than just a fleeting trend.
Furthermore, the RIAA’s recognition of "WAP" as a diamond-certified single reinforces the evolving landscape of music consumption. In an era dominated by digital streaming, achieving this level of success requires sustained engagement from millions of fans across various platforms. It speaks to the song’s ability to transcend generational divides and maintain its relevance in the digital age.
The continued success of "WAP" also serves as a powerful reminder of the cultural impact that bold and unapologetic artistic expression can have. Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion, through their collaboration, provided a platform for female empowerment and sexual liberation, sparking conversations and inspiring listeners worldwide. Their achievement with "WAP" cements its place in music history as a landmark track that broke barriers and redefined possibilities for women in hip-hop.
