Cardi B just turned a Jay-Z classic into her own Bronx victory lap.

Cardi B’s “Imaginary Playerz” has officially hit #1 on US iTunes, marking another major moment in her already decorated career. The track sees Cardi paying homage to Jay-Z by reimagining his classic “Imaginary Players” from In My Lifetime, Vol. 1. Her version keeps the swagger and sharpness of the original while layering in her own unapologetic Bronx flair. It’s a confident flex that sets the tone for her upcoming album Am I The Drama?, dropping September 19.

Since her Grammy-winning debut Invasion of Privacy, Cardi’s life has been anything but quiet. She’s gone through a very public divorce from Offset, welcomed multiple children, and kept herself firmly in the spotlight with headline-making interviews and appearances. Through all the personal ups and downs, she’s maintained her position as one of rap’s most influential figures.

On “Imaginary Playerz,” Cardi is in full braggadocio mode. Her delivery is sharp, her wordplay playful yet cutting, and her confidence radiates through every bar. While the song is a clear nod to Jay-Z’s influence, it’s far from a simple remake — Cardi makes it entirely her own, updating the theme of flexing on doubters for the 2025 rap landscape. The beat, cadence, and attitude feel tailor-made for her style.

If this single is any indication, Am I The Drama? will be an album where Cardi not only talks her talk but also cements her dominance in the game. Still, fans are hopeful that alongside the bangers, she’ll sprinkle in some introspective cuts that give us a deeper glimpse into her journey since Invasion of Privacy. For now, “Imaginary Playerz” is the perfect shot of energy to kick off this new era.

Quincy

Quincy is the creator of Ratings Game Music. He loves writing about music, taking long walks on beaches, and spaghetti that fights him back.