By Bemi Brooks 
When you see a global superstar like Cardi B, it’s easy to see only the glamour and fame. But what if the real secret to her unmatched drive and resilience wasn’t found in a recording studio, but in the front seat of a New York City taxi cab? That’s where the story truly begins, with a man named Carlos Alman. This retired taxi driver and family patriarch didn’t just drive the streets of NYC; he navigated the difficult path of an immigrant dream, laying an unshakable foundation for his daughter’s historic rise.
Before the world knew the name Cardi B, there was the story of her father, Carlos Alman. A man of Dominican descent, Carlos embarked on the classic immigrant journey, leaving his homeland for the promise of opportunity in the United States. He eventually settled in Washington Heights, Manhattan—a vibrant, bustling neighborhood known as a cultural heart of the Dominican community in NYC.
To provide for his family, Carlos Alman spent years behind the wheel of a New York City taxi. This wasn’t just a job; it was a testament to his determination. Furthermore, the life of a cab driver is one of grit, requiring 12-hour shifts, constant navigation, and the resilience to handle any challenge the city throws your way. Consequently, this role was more than a means to an end; it was a masterclass in perseverance, a lesson his children watched every single day.
The values Carlos embodied in his daily life didn’t stay in the taxi. They were brought home and instilled in his children, becoming the core principles that would define his daughter’s career. Think of his life as laying the foundation of a skyscraper—the work is unseen but essential for the glittering structure above.
- Relentless Work Ethic: Driving a cab for long hours to earn a living directly translates to the non-stop hustle Cardi B is known for. Her relentless tour schedules, multiple projects, and undeniable grind mirror the same dedication it takes to navigate NYC streets day in and day out.
- Financial Savviness: As an independent driver, Carlos understood the direct link between effort and income. This value of earning your own money and being financially independent is a theme Cardi has loudly and proudly championed. For instance, she has famously spoken about her refusal to rely on anyone else for her financial well-being.
- Street Smarts and Resilience: Surviving as an immigrant and a taxi driver in New York requires a unique, sharp intelligence. You learn to read people, navigate complex situations, and develop a thick skin. Ultimately, this fostered a resilience in Cardi, allowing her to handle the immense pressures of fame and the music industry with a sharp, no-nonsense attitude.
Many assume Cardi B’s explosive personality is a creation of reality TV and social media. However, a closer look reveals that her authenticity, confidence, and unfiltered nature have deep roots in her home environment. The strong, principled figure of Carlos Alman provided a blueprint for being unapologetically yourself.
Additionally, the cultural melting pot of her upbringing played a huge role. The strong Dominicano influence from her father, blended with the Trinidadian heritage from her mother, created a unique household rich in Caribbean culture. This diverse background is a key ingredient in Cardi’s unique sound and relatable, cross-cultural appeal.
While the world is fascinated by his daughter, Carlos Alman himself is a deeply private man. After years of dedicated work, he is now retired and enjoys a life away from the paparazzi’s flash. His current role is that of a grandfather and family man, cherishing time with his daughter and her children.
He handles his unintended public profile with quiet dignity. By all accounts, he remains a supportive figure in Cardi’s life, though he consciously chooses to stay out of the media narrative. This desire for a normal life is a testament to his character, proving that the true value for him was always family, not fame.
The story of Carlos Alman is more than a footnote in a celebrity biography. It is a powerful, classic immigrant narrative of sacrifice and quiet strength. His legacy isn’t just one famous daughter; it’s the foundation of ambition, resilience, and hustle he helped build for his entire family.
He is a reminder that behind every self-made success story, there are often quiet architects working tirelessly behind the scenes. Next time you see a self-made success story, look a little deeper. Consider the family, the sacrifices, and the quiet architects, like Carlos Alman, who helped build the stage.
We’d love to hear from you! What value passed down from a parent or grandparent has most shaped your own life?
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What is Carlos Alman’s nationality and background?
Carlos Alman is of Dominican descent. He immigrated to the United States and settled in the Washington Heights neighborhood of Manhattan, a vibrant hub for the Dominican community.
What did Carlos Alman do for a living?
He worked for many years as a taxi driver in New York City, a demanding job known for its long hours and grit, which exemplified a strong work ethic for his family.
How has Carlos Alman influenced Cardi B’s career?
While largely staying out of the spotlight, Carlos is credited with instilling core values like resilience, financial independence, and a relentless hustle in his daughter, traits that are central to Cardi B’s persona and business acumen.
What is Carlos Alman’s real name?
Carlos Alman is his public name. His daughter Cardi B’s full birth name is Belcalis Marlenis Almánzar, with “Almánzar” being a variation of his surname.
Is Carlos Alman still involved in Cardi B’s life?
Yes, by all accounts, he remains a part of his daughter’s and grandchildren’s lives. However, he values his privacy and chooses to stay away from the media glare, enjoying his retirement.
Where does Carlos Alman live now?
Specific details about his current residence are private to respect his family’s wishes. It is understood he lives a quiet life, likely in the New York area.
What is Carlos Alman’s relationship with Cardi B’s husband, Offset?
The dynamics of their personal relationship are kept private. Publicly, he has been seen at family gatherings, and Cardi B has shared that her family is supportive of her marriage and family life.