Anyone familiar with songstress Nicki Minaj knows all too well just how colorful and outlandish some of her costumes have been in recent years. Wearing wigs of all shapes and sizes and many bright and revealing outfits, Minaj surely has drawn her share of attention in building her star status.

And while Minaj’s appearance seems to go hand in hand with her brazen personality, she appears to be making a serious career change.

According to a report from Bossip.com on Monday, March 4, Minaj has apparently fired the people responsible for her make-up and hair, also known as the “glam squad”.

The news comes a day after the rapper fought off rumors that she hasn’t received any plastic surgery.

“Nicki is desperate to be taken seriously as an artist,” a source close to the 30-year old singer revealed.

“She’s fired her long-standing hairdresser who has been responsible for some of her crazy hairstyles over the years,” added the insider. “She’s also fired her stylist.”

Minaj also seems to be set on focusing on a new album and there are whispers that she may not be returning on the next season of “American Idol”.

“Nicki feels that now she’s done with ‘American Idol’, she can finally be taken seriously and release a proper hip-hop album,” stated the source.

Chris Robinson can be reached at Trimond@aol.com and www.HustleBoss.com