Nicki Minaj has warned those looking to enter the music industry to expect criticism.

The US singer and rapper has become an established act in the scene over the last few years but she is often subjected to online abuse.

Speaking to the Guardian, Minaj said that the best way to deal with online hate is to stay calm and avoid responding. When asked what advice she would give those struggling with online "idiots", the 'Beez in the Trap' star replied:

"Not to react! I've got caught up in reacting, sometimes, 'cos I'm crazy. It's better to realise that they're not talking to you, they're talking to your image. I'm not Nicki Minaj."

She added: "It's important to know that you're an amazing person. You have to know that as long as you love who you are – your morals, your values, that type of stuff – you're OK. And I have to remind myself of that, I really do. It gets tough. I just tell people: don't even come in the business if you think it's going to be peaches and rainbows and unicorns. It's not for the faint of heart. It's for fighters."