Three very different women—Nicki Minaj, Taylor Swift, and Katie Couric—all came together for the 2011 Billboard Women in Music awards (sponsored by Crest 3D White). The event celebrated some of the top 40 most powerful ladies in biz, including executives, singers, and producers. Swift took the grand prize of Woman of the Year, while Minaj scored the Billboard Rising Star medal. We also got the pleasure of watching the stars' acceptance speeches, during which we learned that when Swift tweeted Minaj's hit "Superbass," it instantly jumped to the top of the charts. After, Couric interviewed Swift on stage, and when the news anchor asked the country star why she doesn't booze like a typical 21 year old, she responded with a shrug that she "just doesn't feel like it." Read more of their inspiring words!

Nicki Minaj

Real Beauty: You have had so many beauty collaborations recently (with MAC Cosmetics and OPI). What's next?

Nicki Minaj: I am working on a fragrance, and they take a while to come into fruition. But I can't wait until my Barbz smells like me, and I smell like my Barbz!

[Editor's note: Minaj calls herself a Harajuku Barbie, a.k.a., "Barbz." Now, her fans are referred to as "Barbz," as well. We also got a tip at the awards show that an official Nicki Minaj Barbie will be released soon—whoop!]

Taylor Swift

Real Beauty: What inspired you to cut bangs?

Taylor Swift: I showed up to a photo shoot, and [the stylists] wanted to do clip-in bangs and straight hair, so I said, 'why don't you just cut 'em?' I just like the way bangs look on other people. Also, I always seem to want to straighten my hair in the winter. I don't know why. It's a winter thing. And I took it a step further this time.

Click here to read our full interview with Swift, and find out what she's wearing on New Year's Eve!

Katie Couric

Real Beauty: You have said that your daughter is a huge fan of Taylor Swift. Do you like her as well?

Katie Couric: I do. She's fun to listen to. A lot of it has to do with teenage angst, and anybody can relate to that. She is a good role model in how she behaves and in what she achieves. She's very creative, and she has obviously found her passion. I really appreciate that she writes most of her songs and sings from the heart.

RB: Who is your role model?

KC: Eleanor Roosevelt.

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