Cardi B has reignited speculation about her relationship with fellow rapper Latto after making an unexpected lyric change during her NPR Tiny Desk Concert debut, replacing a familiar shout-out with a reference to Kelly Rowland. The 34-year-old rapper delivered an energetic performance on Monday, 19 October 2026, but it was one particular moment during her song ErrTime that attracted attention.
Instead of mentioning Latto, as she does in the original recording, Cardi referenced someone named Kelly, widely interpreted as former Destiny's Child singer Kelly Rowland. The change comes after a public disagreement between the two rappers, although Cardi has not confirmed whether the altered lyric was intended as a slight.
Cardi B Removes Latto's Name During Tiny Desk Performance
Cardi performed an eight-song set accompanied by a live band, delivering fresh arrangements of some of her biggest hits. However, listeners familiar with ErrTime noticed that the rapper had changed a lyric originally praising Latto's appearance. During the performance, Cardi replaced the original reference with a line mentioning Kelly, prompting speculation that she was referring to Rowland.
The substitution attracted particular attention because the original lyric had previously been viewed as a friendly acknowledgement of Latto. While the change might appear minor, the history between the two artists has given it additional significance. Cardi has not publicly explained her decision to alter the lyric, leaving its intended meaning uncertain.
Kelly Rowland Reacts to Cardi B's Unexpected Shout-Out
Kelly Rowland appeared pleased with the apparent reference, sharing a clip from Cardi's Tiny Desk performance on her Instagram Stories. The former Destiny's Child member accompanied the video with an enthusiastic message, writing, 'Get it Cardi!!!' Cardi subsequently reposted Rowland's reaction and responded, 'I love youuuu!!!'
Their exchange added another dimension to the moment, suggesting that Rowland welcomed the recognition. However, neither artist publicly linked the interaction to Cardi's previous disagreement with Latto. The friendly exchange also provided a contrast to the speculation surrounding the missing shout-out.
What Happened Between Cardi B and Latto?
Cardi and Latto previously maintained a friendly professional relationship, collaborating on a remix of ErrTime in September 2025. However, their relationship became strained after a leaked telephone conversation surfaced in which Cardi made disparaging remarks about Latto. The recording prompted public criticism and renewed attention to the relationship between the two performers. Cardi subsequently apologised for her comments, acknowledging that her remarks had been disrespectful.
Latto later addressed the situation through her music, including the song Gimme Dat, which reflected her feelings about their disagreement. During an interview on The Breakfast Club, Latto discussed the fallout and indicated that reconciliation remained possible. She explained that she was 'open to the conversation', suggesting that the disagreement did not necessarily have to end their relationship permanently.
Despite those remarks, neither rapper has publicly confirmed that their differences have been resolved. The latest lyric change has therefore drawn attention to a relationship that has already experienced public tension.
Cardi B's Tiny Desk Debut Features Eight Songs
Beyond the unexpected lyric change, Cardi's Tiny Desk debut showcased her performance style in a more intimate musical setting. Dressed in black alongside her musicians, she performed tracks including Hello, Man of Your Word, Be Careful, Up, AH HA, Bodak Yellow and I Like It. The rapper also interacted with the audience between songs, bringing humour and personality to the performance. Her appearance followed the release of her second studio album, Am I the Drama?, in September 2025 and her subsequent Little Miss Drama Tour.
Although the performance celebrated her catalogue, the altered ErrTime lyric became a separate talking point. For now, the reason behind Cardi's decision remains unclear. Whether the change was simply a spontaneous shout-out to Rowland or carried a deeper message towards Latto has not been established. Until Cardi addresses the speculation, suggestions that she deliberately shaded her former collaborator remain interpretations rather than confirmed facts.
