Nicki Minaj Takes Malcom X Artwork Off Instagram; Apologizes For Backlash; Not Like She Was Trying To Start A Revolution

Nicki Minaj got flak from posting Malcom X artwork with an automatic rifle on Instagram and she wasn't wearing a flak jacket.

The cover art for Nicki Minaj's new single "Lookin' Ass N---a" got slammed because it showed Malcolm X holding a rifle. The orginal Malcolm X artwork was featured as in Ebony magazine in 1964. Malcolm X was assassinated 49 years ago this month at age 39.

Almost immediately after the Nicki Minaj Malcolm X cover art was unveiled, a petition went up on  Change.org asking that it be changed. By Thursday night, the petition had over 1,500 supporters.

On Wednesday, Minaj posted the Malcom X photo on her website and Instagram page. Nicki also got criticism for using the N-word.

Nicki Minaj addressed the backlash by apologizing on Instagram to the estate of Malcolm X. She explained the artwork "is in no way to undermine his efforts and legacy. That was never the official artwork nor is this an official single. This is a conversation. Not a single. I apologize to the Malcolm X estate if the meaning of the photo was misconstrued. ... I have nothing but respect (and) adoration for u."

The apology came with a screenshot from the video which shows Nicki Minaj holding a gun and asking "What seems to be the issue now? Do you have a problem with me referring to the people Malcolm X was ready to pull his gun out on as ['Lookin' A** N***az']? Well, I apologize. That was never the official artwork nor is this an official single. This is a conversation. Not a single. I am in the video shooting at ['Lookin' A** N***az'] and there happened to be an iconic photo of Malcolm X ready to do the same thing for what he believed in!!!!"

Nicki also explained her use of the racial epithet, saying "The word 'n-----' causes so much debate in our community while the 'n-----' behavior gets praised and worship. Let's not. Apologies again to his family. I have nothing but respect an adoration for u. The photo was removed hours ago. Thank you."

The picture was deleted from Minaj's Instagram account, but was still on her website Thursday.

"Lookin" will appear on Minaj's next album, "The Pink Print." No release date has been announced.