Nicki Minaj
Nicki Minaj at Elton John's Oscars after-party Reuters/ Gus Ruelas

If you've worked for Nicki Minaj lately, you might be out of a job. The singer has fired her hair and makeup team, as part of an apparent effort gain more respect.

A source explained to British tabloid The Sun, “Nicki is desperate to be taken seriously as an artist.”

Though her hairstylist, Terrence Davidson, who worked with Minaj for three years, released a statement in January saying he was quitting, he apparently was axed.

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

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

Minaj firing her “glam squad” would explain her more toned-down looks in recent weeks.

At the Elton John's Oscars afterparty, Minaj walked the red carpet in minimal makeup and with hair that was far less shocking than the outrageous hairdos she's worn over the years.

Last week, he addressed another topic of discussion—plastic surgery.

In a recent interview with Extra, Minaj, who is currently promoting the VIVA glam makeup line with MAC, spoke with Renee Bargh, and stated, “I’ve never had surgery on my face.”

Many have speculated that the 30-year-old rapper has had a nose job, among other facial surgeries. But Minaj counters that it's all about the makeup she uses.

“When people see my makeup, they think all types of crazy things that I'm doing to my skin, but it's makeup.”

The rapper, who often presents herself as a Barbie, even admits that though there are audience viewers who idolize her, she's not always glamorous.

Minaj admits that her dressed-down look is usually a “scarf on my head, T-shirt, Uggs.”

It will be interesting to see how Minaj’s style will evolve as she moves forward with her new makeup and hair team.