At the American Music Awards 2011, Nicky Minaj picked up two awards on Sunday.

She won the Award for the Favorite Artist in the category of Rap/Hip-Hop Music. There's so much love in this room, she exclaimed. I have to thank god... Kane, Ester Dean... I have to thank Taylor Swift.

She won the second award for Album in the Rap/Hip-Hop Music category. Minaj was almost moved to tears while reciving the Award. I have to thank Lil Wayne because if it wasn't for him I wouldn't be here, she said. She proclaimed loudly, Chase your dreams.

Minaj began her music career in 2007 after she released her first mixtape Playtime is Over. Her 2010 debut album, Pink Friday, quickly became a commercial success.

Singer Nicki Minaj poses backstage with her awards for Favorite RapHip Hop Artist and Favorite RapHip Hop Album at the 2011 American Music Awards in Los Angeles November 20, 2011
Singer Nicki Minaj poses backstage with her awards for Favorite Rap/Hip Hop Artist and Favorite Rap/Hip Hop Album at the 2011 American Music Awards in Los Angeles November 20, 2011 Reuters
Nicki Minaj performs at the 2011 American Music Awards in Los Angeles
Nicki Minaj performs at the 2011 American Music Awards in Los Angeles Reuters
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