Nicki Minaj Named Billboard's 'Rising Star' for 2011

   Nicki Minaj has been named Billboard's "Rising Star" for 2011, capping off a year that has seen the hip-hop star top the charts with her massive-selling "Pink Friday" album and, most recently, earn a pair of trophies at the American Music Awards.      
     The Rising Star Award acknowledges Minaj's phenomenal year and will be presented at the Billboard Women in Music Event on Dec. 2 in New York City.

Minaj will be joined at the sixth annual event by Billboard Woman of the Year Taylor Swift, her friend and an early booster through radio interviews and a widely seen concert cameo.

"I am deeply honored to be recognized by Billboard," says Minaj. "My nation of barbz and I have come a mighty long way; yet we are nowhere close to where God will take us. Sit back and enjoy the ride."

    The rapper and singer has emerged as one of music's most popular entertainers since releasing her debut album "Pink Friday" late last year.