On Sept. 19, Cardi B released her highly anticipated album “Am I the Drama?” In under 24 hours, the project went platinum, setting the record as the fastest female album ever certified by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA.)

Cardi first made history with her 2018 debut “Invasion of Privacy,” becoming the first female rapper to have every song on an album certified platinum or higher in 2022. With smart marketing and strong promotion, she has once again returned to the top of the charts.

“Am I the Drama?” features 23 tracks and collaborations with some of today’s biggest artists. Early standouts include “Safe” featuring Kehlani, “Dead” featuring Summer Walker, “Pick it Up” featuring Selena Gomez and the solo diss track “Pretty & Petty.” Cardi addresses her ongoing feuds with female rappers, her divorce from Offset, her new relationship with Stefon Diggs and claps back at those who doubt her.

The sound of the album is eclectic, blending drill, pop and R&B with New York Latin influences, especially on “Bodega Baddie.” Compared to “Invasion of Privacy,” which leaned more towards a pop-friendly sound, “Am I the Drama?” feels bolder and more grounded. Cardi sounds mature, confident and unapologetic as she reminds everyone that she still holds the crown.

Buzz grew when she announced the album and previewed “Imaginary Playerz,” a track that samples Jay-Z’s “Imaginary Player.” Fans speculated whether the album would follow that same gritty New York sound.

While some laid-back songs are perfect for cruising in the car, Cardi also delivers plenty of hard-hitting tracks that show off her Bronx roots and signature personality with tracks, such as “Hello,” “Errbody,” “Magnet” and “Trophies.”

She shows her vulnerability with the heartbreak track “Man Of Your Word,” and experiments with a unique sound on “What’s Going On,” featuring Lizzo. Her collaboration with Janet Jackson on “Principal” blends modern hip-hop with classic R&B, pairing hard-hitting lyrics with a strong sense of sex appeal.

A few choreographers who have worked in the commercial dance and entertainment industry with major artists shared their feedback on the album from a dance perspective.

West Coast–based creative director and choreographer Apollo Sa’Deek said the album shows Cardi’s ability to stay true to herself while still evolving. He highlighted how “Am I the Drama?” carries the same fiery confidence as “Invasion of Privacy” while also leaning into a more eclectic sound.

“I thought it was great! It was a fun and solid album. Compared to her previous album, this shows that she is consistent with her brand,” Sa’Deek said.

East Coast choreographer and professional dancer Miguel Robinson focused on the emotional depth of the project, reflecting on the way Cardi balances vulnerability with aggression, turning personal struggles into both relatable and hard-hitting tracks.

“It was a diary of heartbreak,” Robinson said. “Her album was on fire! She took ‘getting her lick back’ to the extreme!”

“Am I the Drama?” secures Cardi’s place at the top. She continues to show her skills, personality and drive, remaining among the leading female rappers in the game. Overall, I would give the album a nine out of 10 with no skips.