There's a really interesting article on Racialicious about 2NE1 & Nicki Minaj:
http://www.racialicious.com/2011/12/...door-for-2ne1/
Basically, it talks about the issues that previous Asian artists have had in breaking into the US market and how 2NE1 might have a better chance at it partly due to the accomplishments and influences of Nicki Minaj. In particular, it has to do with breaking stereotypes and redefining the roles of women of colour in the entertainment industry.
It's a great read and makes me very hopeful that 2NE1 will find success in the US even if I'm not so much of an active fan anymore.