The wait is over. Lil Wayne‘s Tha Carter V is finally out!
The album opens up with a touching message as the rapper’s mother as she calls her son, Dwayne Michael Carter Jr., her “rock.” Wiping the tears away we’re able to move forward and the next track, “Don’t Cry” is just what we needed. Lil Wayne’s delivery is on point as ever, but he takes a leaned back, inspirational approach with this one. Featuring stunning vocals from XXXTENTACION, Weezy certainly knows how to get our attention.
XXX isn’t the only feature on the album. The album is filled with star-studded collaborations including Travis Scott, Nicki Minaj, Kendrick Lamar, Snoop Dogg, Ashanti, and more. His daughter Reginae Carter jumps on “Famous” to deliver the chorus. The personal song holds its own as a strong, hair-raising ballad — and one of the best on the sprawling 23-track album. 
Choosing favorites on this album will prove to be difficult. “Mona Lisa” featuring Kendrick Lamar is easily the most buzzed about. “Dope Ni**az” with Snoop Dogg is an instant classic. But, really, it’s not about the features — we’re hearing Lil Wayne at his finest. He is truly one of the greatest of all time and Tha Carter V is a shining example.
By the way, happy birthday Weezy! Today is the day.
