It comes a time in every MC’s career when they have to meet father time head on. It happens to the best and most dominant wordsmiths alike — just ask Lil Wayne.
We challenge those up in arms because of our claims to re-listen to the YMCMB rapper’s most recent projects and see if they measure up to anything he released between the years of 2005-2009. That’s what we thought.
Still possessing the ability to make a popular song has no bearing on Wayne’s current lyrical circumstance. It’s just the way the pendulum swings. Over time, a MC’s bars are bound to take a dive in quality from those written in their respective heydays.
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Lines like “I be so f**kin’ faded/ Who washed the colors with bleach” (from a song released today) simply don’t compare to perhaps anything said on Tha Carter II.
But that’s what memories are for. That said, we present 10 songs that’ll take you back to the days Lil Wayne seemingly could not be stopped.
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Photo: GQ
Fam-lay ft. Lil Wayne – “Git Busy (Remix)”
This remix of the Virginia rapper’s track may have flown under the radar, because the original didn’t have much steam either. However, Weezy kicks on of his filthiest, underrated verses here.
Lil Wayne – “Do It Again”
Yes, the New Orleans rapper has a good story in him. We kind of wish this made it to an actual album.
Lil Wayne – “Oh No”
This was the then rising rapper at his most unapologetic state. He knew he was next and that there was nothing anyone could do about it.
Lil Wayne ft. Freeway & T.I. – “Cannon (Remix)”
If you weren’t one to hop on the Weezy train early, this verse was one of the moments that made you a believer without question.
Lil Wayne – “Bass Beat”
Some would say that Tune has the best verse ever spit on this classic break beat. Not saying those are our thoughts, but you know…
Lil Wayne – “Get Em”
No lie. We’re fans of The Diplomats, but you practically forget this beat was originally theirs when you hear this Dedication 2 standout.
Lil Wayne – “Hustler Musik”
You’ll never hear a Weezy single sound like this ever again. Sad story.
Lil Wayne – BM J.R.
Tha Carter was well before Weezy would become a star, but this was the proverbial foreshadowing for what would become his story.
Lil Wayne – “Upgrade You” Freestyle
Every hood in America had Da Drought 3 double disc in constant rotation after it released. This was one of the project’s more memorable moments, thought we’re partial to “Live From the 504.”
Lil Wayne – “Tha Mobb”
If you didn’t know what Tha Carter II was going to be, you had a great idea after hearing this intro.
