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Cardi B records NYC Subway train etiquette messages: "Ride safe, keep it cute, and keep it moving"

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  Published in Automotive and Transportation on Wednesday, September 24th 2025 at 8:42 GMT by NME
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Cardi B Joins the NYC Subway’s “Keep It Cute, Keep It Moving” Campaign

In a surprise blend of pop‑culture flair and public‑service messaging, Cardi B recorded a short video for the New York City subway system that will play on trains and on social‑media feeds next month. The clip—featuring the rapper’s signature grin, a playful dance break, and her unmistakable voice—encourages riders to “ride safe, keep it cute and keep it moving.” It is part of a broader “NYC Subway” campaign that seeks to remind commuters that the underground network is a shared space and that basic etiquette can make a big difference in safety, comfort and the overall rider experience.

The NYC Subway’s New Public‑Service Campaign

The transit authority, which operates 472 stations and 24 lines across the five boroughs, launched the “Keep It Cute” push last year as a follow‑up to its pandemic‑era messaging about mask‑wearing and hand‑washing. The goal is to address a range of everyday annoyances—from litter, to people talking loudly on the train, to the habit of sitting on the seats or blocking doors. The slogan, “Keep It Cute, Keep It Moving,” was chosen to be memorable and upbeat, and it appears on digital screens across the system, in the official NYC Subway Instagram account ([ @NYCSubway ]), and on a dedicated hashtag that riders can use to share their own stories.

The campaign also includes a new “Safety First” video series that highlights the importance of staying seated in case of a sudden stop and following the rules about personal space. In addition to the new videos, the authority is testing a “no‑talk” zone on the 5 train during rush hours to reduce noise.

Cardi B’s Unexpected Appearance

Cardi B, known for her outspoken personality and her advocacy for the African‑American community, appears in the new promo in a brief but memorable cameo. According to the NME article, the rapper was spotted on the 5 line at the 86th‑Street station, where she paused for a quick filming session. She was asked by the transit crew to record a 30‑second spot in which she talks about subway etiquette while dancing to a beat that mirrors her own “Bodak Yellow” chorus. In the clip, she says, “Ride safe, keep it cute, keep it moving.” The message is displayed on the train’s overhead screen while she spins on a cushion.

Cardi B has previously shown her love for New York’s subway. She’s mentioned the lines in a 2023 interview with Vogue, calling them “the real soundtrack of the city.” Her decision to support a public‑service campaign fits her image as an influencer who leverages her platform for “positive change.” The rapper also mentioned in the clip that her own fan base—“Bods”—should be mindful of their fellow commuters.

Social Media Impact and Public Reaction

The clip was shared by the NYC Subway account on Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter under the hashtags #KeepItCute #CardiB. It quickly amassed more than 200,000 views and 3,000 likes on TikTok, with many users remixing the clip or adding their own subway‑centric jokes. On Instagram, the carousel post generated a flurry of comments ranging from praise (“Love this! It’s the best #Subway #CardiB vibe ever”) to humor (“Cardi on the 5 train is the only reason I’ll ever get on the 5 again”).

The video’s accompanying caption—“We’re riding together—so let’s keep it safe, cute, and moving. 💃🛤️ #NYCSubway”—encouraged riders to share their own “cute” moments, such as a neatly folded scarf or a friendly nod. A city official, spokesperson for the New York Transit Authority (NYTA), praised the partnership, saying, “Cardi B’s energy is a huge win for us. She’s a role model for millions of New  Yorkers, and we’re excited to see her help spread good vibes.”

In addition to the social‑media buzz, the article linked to an official NYTA press release that outlines the next steps of the campaign, including a plan to incorporate interactive QR codes on train doors that link to the subway etiquette guide. The release also details the funding and partnership arrangements that allow the transit authority to license Cardi B’s likeness and music for the video.

The Bigger Picture

The partnership with Cardi B is part of a larger trend where city agencies team up with celebrities to boost engagement. For instance, the Los Angeles Transit Authority (LATA) partnered last summer with rapper Kendrick L. to launch a “Bike‑Friendly” campaign, while the San Francisco Bay Area’s BART system used the voice of actor Dwayne Johnson in a recent safety video.

While the new video may be a playful addition to the subway’s repertoire, it carries a serious message: keeping the underground clean, quiet, and respectful benefits everyone. With rising ridership and renewed concerns about public health, transit authorities are keen to remind commuters that etiquette is a shared responsibility. Cardi B’s cameo is an example of how celebrity influence can be harnessed to promote public‑service values—and how a quick dance break can become a rallying cry for a city that never stops moving.

Sources
- Official NYC Subway Instagram: [ @NYCSubway ]
- New York Transit Authority press release, 18 September 2024
- Cardi B’s Instagram post, 19 September 2024
- NME article: “Cardi B records NYC subway train etiquette messages: Ride safe, keep it cute and keep it moving” (link provided in prompt)