How Carlos Alman’s Work Ethic Inspired Cardi B’s Rise to Stardom

In the glittering world of hip-hop, few stories captivate like that of Cardi B. From her raw beginnings in the Bronx to dominating charts with hits like “Bodak Yellow” and “WAP,” Cardi B—born Belcalis Marlenis Almánzar—has become a symbol of unapologetic ambition and resilience. But behind her fierce persona and chart-topping success lies a quieter influence: her father, Carlos Alman. As a Dominican immigrant who hustled as a taxi driver in New York City, Carlos embodied the kind of relentless work ethic that propelled his daughter from stripping to stardom. This article explores how Carlos Alman’s dedication, sacrifices, and values shaped Cardi B’s journey, proving that sometimes the most powerful inspirations come from the everyday grind.

Who Is Carlos Alman? A Glimpse into His Background

Carlos Alman may not seek the spotlight, but his life story is one of quiet determination. Born on March 19, 1958, in the Dominican Republic, Carlos grew up in a culture rich with vibrant music, strong family ties, and a deep sense of community. He emigrated to the United States in 1990, seeking better opportunities for himself and his family. Settling in New York City, he took on the demanding role of a taxi driver—a job that required long hours, navigating chaotic streets, and dealing with unpredictable passengers.

Unlike his famous daughter, Carlos maintains a low-profile existence. He has no active social media presence and rarely appears in the media, preferring to let his actions speak louder than words. Father to eight children—six from his first marriage and two, Cardi B and her sister Hennessy Carolina, with his second wife Clara Almánzar—Carlos has always prioritized family. His Dominican heritage, infused with values of hard work and cultural pride, became the foundation for how he raised his kids. Cardi B often describes herself as Afro-Latina, crediting her father’s side for her strong connection to Dominican roots.

This unassuming man didn’t just provide for his family; he modeled a blueprint for success through sheer perseverance. In interviews, Cardi has hinted at the profound impact her father’s immigrant story had on her, turning potential obstacles into fuel for her fire.

The Immigrant Journey: From Dominican Republic to New York Streets

Immigration stories like Carlos Alman’s are woven into the fabric of American success narratives. Leaving the Dominican Republic in his early thirties, Carlos arrived in the U.S. with dreams but few resources. New York City in the 1990s was a melting pot of opportunity and hardship, especially for newcomers. He quickly adapted, securing work as a taxi driver—a common entry point for many immigrants due to its flexibility and immediate earning potential.

The transition wasn’t easy. Taxi driving meant grueling shifts, often 12 to 18 hours a day, battling traffic, weather, and the city’s relentless pace. Yet, Carlos thrived by embracing the “immigrant work ethic”—a term often used to describe the unyielding drive of those building new lives abroad. His story mirrors that of countless parents who sacrifice comfort for their children’s future, instilling lessons in resilience without ever saying a word.

For Cardi B, growing up in a household split between her mother’s Trinidadian influences and her father’s Dominican ones, this journey was a daily reality. She witnessed firsthand the sacrifices immigrants make, which later informed her own hustle. In a world where Cardi could have easily fallen into complacency, her father’s example pushed her to aim higher.

Life as a Taxi Driver: The Embodiment of Hard Work

Carlos Alman’s career as a taxi driver wasn’t glamorous, but it was a masterclass in dedication. Waking up before dawn, navigating New York’s infamous gridlock, and ensuring a steady income for his family required discipline and grit. He wasn’t chasing fame or fortune; he was building stability. This blue-collar ethos—working long hours without complaint—became the cornerstone of Cardi’s worldview.

Cardi has openly credited her father’s taxi-driving days for teaching her the value of hard work. In one interview, she reflected on watching him grind through exhausting shifts, which inspired her to never settle for less. “My dad worked so hard to give us everything,” she’s said, emphasizing how his sacrifices motivated her to escape poverty. This isn’t just lip service; Cardi’s early jobs, from working at a deli to stripping at 19, echoed her father’s no-excuses approach. She once quipped about her “I ain’t gonna f**k this up because I ain’t going back” mentality—a direct nod to the fear of regression that her parents’ struggles instilled.

Experts note that children of immigrants often inherit this drive, turning parental hardships into personal rocket fuel. For Cardi, Carlos’s taxi cab wasn’t just a vehicle; it was a symbol of persistence that she carried into her music career.

Family Values and Cultural Pride: Shaping Cardi B’s Identity

Beyond the workday grind, Carlos Alman emphasized family and cultural heritage. Raised in a large Dominican family, he passed down traditions like merengue music, flavorful cuisine, and unbreakable family bonds. Cardi B proudly identifies with her Dominican roots, often incorporating Spanish lyrics and cultural references into her music.

His supportive parenting style also played a key role. Despite divorcing Cardi’s mother when she was young, Carlos remained involved, providing emotional and financial backing. Anecdotes from Cardi highlight this: On Father’s Day, she shared heartfelt tributes to the great fathers in her life, including her own. Even lighthearted moments, like allowing her daughter Kulture to get press-on nails (something he denied Cardi at that age), show his evolving role as a grandfather.

This blend of strict work values and warm family ties helped Cardi navigate fame’s pitfalls. She credits her father’s pride in their heritage for her confidence, turning what could have been cultural disconnection into a superpower.

Direct Influences: How Carlos Alman’s Ethic Fueled Cardi’s Ambition

Carlos’s influence on Cardi B is most evident in her unmatched work ethic. From her breakout on “Love & Hip Hop: New York” to viral social media rants that launched her music career, Cardi has always outworked the competition. Peers describe her as a “machine,” constantly grinding on albums, tours, and business ventures like her Whipshots brand.

In a Rolling Stone interview, Cardi spoke about choosing beats that reflect her hustle: “I could do more of an inspirational type of record — ‘I used to grind all my life’ — but then I decided to be like, ‘No, I’m going to shit on you bitches.’” This fire stems from Carlos’s example. As rapper Plies noted, Cardi’s “rags to riches” story is pure execution—no silver spoon, just relentless effort.

Her father’s long hours taught her that success demands sacrifice. Even amid personal challenges, like her high-profile divorce, Cardi channels that energy into her craft, much like Carlos did with his cab.

Cardi B’s Rise: From Humble Beginnings to Global Superstar

Cardi B’s ascent is a testament to her inherited grit. Born in 1992 in the Bronx, she faced poverty, gang influences, and family strife. At 18, she started stripping to escape an abusive relationship and support herself— a decision rooted in the practical survival skills her parents taught.

Her social media savvy turned her into a viral sensation, leading to music deals. “Bodak Yellow” hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 2017, making her the first solo female rapper to do so since Lauryn Hill. Albums like “Invasion of Privacy” earned Grammys, and her net worth now exceeds $80 million. Throughout, Cardi’s work ethic shines: She’s released mixtapes, collaborated with icons like Megan Thee Stallion, and built a family while dominating.

Critics argue her success came from connections, but Cardi counters that it’s her grind—mirroring Carlos’s—that sets her apart.

Quotes and Anecdotes: Cardi’s Tributes to Her Father

Cardi doesn’t shy from praising her dad. In posts and interviews, she shares stories like his strict rules turning into grandpa indulgences. On X (formerly Twitter), fans echo this, noting how her “hustler” vibe inspires them, much like Carlos inspired her.

One touching anecdote: Cardi recalled her father’s guilt-tripping during tough times, highlighting the complex but supportive dynamic that built her resilience.

The Lasting Impact: Lessons for Aspiring Artists

Carlos Alman’s legacy extends beyond Cardi B. His story teaches that true inspiration often comes from unsung heroes. For aspiring artists, the lesson is clear: Embrace the grind, honor your roots, and let family values guide you. In a industry full of overnight sensations, Cardi’s sustained success proves that a strong work ethic—passed down from a taxi-driving dad—can conquer all.

In conclusion, Carlos Alman’s quiet strength and tireless ethic were the sparks that ignited Cardi B’s meteoric rise. From Dominican immigrant to proud father of a superstar, his influence reminds us that stardom isn’t just about talent; it’s about the foundations built by those who came before. As Cardi continues to break barriers, her father’s lessons remain her north star, inspiring millions to hustle harder.