The announcement of Cardi B’s eagerly anticipated sophomore album, Am I the Drama?, has taken the music world by storm, particularly due to its striking resemblance to a viral quote from Scarlet Envy, a standout contestant from RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars season six. This intriguing connection has sparked conversations across social media, blending the worlds of pop culture and LGBTQ representation. The album’s title resonates with fans who are deeply engaged with both the artist and the iconic show, highlighting the intersection of music and drag culture. As the music scene evolves, it’s essential to recognize how these cultural touchpoints influence artists’ creative expressions and their connection to diverse audiences.

At Brooklyn’s vibrant LadyLand Festival, a gathering that celebrates LGBTQ+ culture, the phrase “am I the drama?” has transcended mere words to become a significant part of queer meme history. When Scarlet Envy took the stage at 1:35 a.m. on Friday night, she instantly connected with the audience, embodying the spirit of the festival. Her presence was electric, and the crowd erupted in recognition, fully aware of the cultural significance behind her introduction of Cardi B. This moment was not just a performance; it was a celebration of identity, community, and the shared love for both drag and hip-hop, bringing together fans in a euphoric atmosphere filled with support and joy.

“Happy Pride, New York City!” Scarlet exclaimed, strutting across the stage in a dazzling red ensemble paired with an extravagant wig that captured everyone’s attention. “I’m here every single year — it’s good to be on the stage this year, bitch. My name is Scarlet Envy: I’m the drama,” she proudly declared, prompting cheers and finger snaps from the enthusiastic crowd. Her introduction set the tone for an unforgettable night, as she referred to Cardi as an “icon, legend, and hometown hero.” This acknowledgment not only showcases Cardi B’s immense influence in the music industry but also highlights the importance of representation in the entertainment world, particularly for marginalized communities.

As Cardi B made her grand entrance on stage dressed in a striking black-and-white horizontal-striped jumper, she playfully engaged with the LadyLand audience by asking, “Who’s tucking today?” Her humor, referring to a common drag term, immediately resonated with the crowd. “I’m an old bitch,” she joked lightheartedly. “I have like 100 kids, I’m ready for bed.” This playful banter not only showcased her charisma but also helped to break the ice, creating a warm and inviting environment for her fans. Cardi’s ability to connect with her audience through humor and relatability is part of what makes her performances so compelling and memorable.

Following her humorous introduction, Cardi B launched into a high-energy performance that left the crowd exhilarated. Despite the rain that began to fall, she guided the audience through an electrifying set filled with her biggest hits. “Let’s get sexy y’all!” Cardi shouted, setting the atmosphere ablaze. The LadyLand attendees, who had spent hours dancing, mingling, and celebrating, were more than ready to join her in this exciting moment. Cardi’s vibrant energy and the crowd’s enthusiasm created a dynamic synergy that made the festival experience truly unforgettable, emphasizing the power of live music in fostering community and joy.

Surrounded by two colossal inflatable fists, Cardi B delivered fan-favorite tracks such as “She Bad” and “Money,” along with her latest single “Outside,” which features a scathing response to Offset. Her performance was infused with the same fervor and personality that propelled her to stardom. Each song was met with roaring applause and sing-alongs from the audience, illustrating not only Cardi’s popularity but also the deep connection she shares with her fans. The combination of her engaging stage presence and the festival’s supportive atmosphere created a celebratory environment that highlighted the importance of music in bringing people together.

“Imma spill some tea, get ready for the tour,” Cardi teased, hinting at exciting news for her fans. During her set, she performed four out of her five Billboard Hot 100 chart-toppers, including “WAP,” “Bodak Yellow,” “I Like It,” and “Up.” Despite the increasingly intense rain, the audience remained captivated and enthusiastic, proving their unwavering support for the artist. After all, witnessing a hip-hop superstar perform live, especially in such a unique location under the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway, is a rare experience. LadyLand’s commitment to providing a platform for diverse musical talent makes it a standout event in New York City’s festival scene.

Before Cardi B took the stage, Ladyfag, the visionary founder of LadyLand and a pivotal figure in NYC nightlife, reflected on her long-standing connection with the Bronx-born rapper. “It’s a full circle moment for me and Cardi,” she shared, recalling a time back in 2017 when Cardi performed at Holy Mountain, Ladyfag’s legendary monthly party, before her meteoric rise to fame with “Bodak Yellow.” This backstory adds depth to their relationship and underscores the importance of community in the music industry, particularly for artists from underrepresented backgrounds.

“She got very excited about being with the gays,” Ladyfag reminisced in a recent interview with Billboard about that February 2017 performance. “She was only supposed to do a few songs, but she wouldn’t stop. Within a few months, she became one of the biggest stars in the world — and she always remembered it.” This heartfelt connection was palpable during Cardi’s performance, as she extended her time on stage to create an unforgettable experience for her LGBTQ+ fans and supporters, showcasing her commitment to her roots and the community that embraced her from the beginning.

Looking ahead to Saturday, June 28, the anticipation continues to build for the second and final night of LadyLand 2025. FKA Twigs is set to headline the evening, with performances from a diverse lineup including Pabllo Vittar, Boris, Eartheater, VTSS, Isabella Lovestory, and Kevin Aviance. This eclectic mix of talent promises to deliver another unforgettable night of music, celebration, and unity, further enriching the vibrant tapestry of New York City’s LGBTQ+ nightlife and culture.