Lil Wayne Shakes Up Rap World: Drake and Eminem Secure Spots in His Updated Top 5 List!

Lil Wayne, the influential rapper and hip-hop mogul, has once again stirred excitement in the rap world with his updated list of top five favorite rappers. In a recent interview with Cam Heyward for the podcast Not Just Football, the 41-year-old artist not only revealed his revised top five but also hinted at the imminent release of his highly anticipated album, Tha Carter VI.

During the interview, Lil Wayne was asked to share his current top five rappers. With his characteristic humor, he began by listing himself in various monikers—”Lil Wayne, Weezy Baby, Tunechi”—before delving into his actual favorites. “My top five rappers of all time are Jay-Z, Missy Elliott, Eminem, the Notorious B.I.G., and Drizzy [Drake],” he declared at the 23:30 mark of the podcast.

This updated list is notable for the inclusion of Eminem and Drake, two artists who were absent from his previous lists shared in 2023. Last August, in an interview with Billboard commemorating the 50th anniversary of hip-hop, Lil Wayne had named Missy Elliott, Jay-Z, the Notorious B.I.G., Goodie Mob, and UGK as his top picks. He reiterated this lineup in a conversation with Nick Wright on What’s Wright? in 2022.

The inclusion of Drake, often referred to as Drizzy, is particularly significant. Drake has often cited Lil Wayne as a major influence and mentor in his career. The mutual respect and admiration between the two have been well-documented, making Drake’s addition to Wayne’s top five a nod to their enduring professional relationship.

Lil Wayne’s acknowledgment of Eminem also highlights a deep-seated respect between two of rap’s most prolific figures. Both have continually pushed the boundaries of the genre, and their mutual admiration has often been expressed in their music and interviews.

Beyond his updated list, Lil Wayne provided fans with an eagerly awaited update on his next major studio album, Tha Carter VI. When asked about the album’s release, Wayne responded with characteristic nonchalance, “Carter VI when? I don’t remember that, actually. It’s soon, though, because it’s what’s next from me. It’s coming out next, actually. I’m not sure of the actual date but it is my next project.”

Later in the podcast, at around the 19:30 mark, he offered further insight into the album’s progress, revealing that it is complete and currently undergoing final edits. “It’s been done,” he confirmed, adding another layer of anticipation for fans eagerly awaiting new music from the rap icon.

Lil Wayne’s influence on hip-hop is undeniable. Since bursting onto the scene as a teenage prodigy, he has continually evolved, influencing countless artists and shaping the genre’s trajectory. His updated top five list not only reflects his personal tastes but also underscores the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of hip-hop.

As fans await the release of Tha Carter VI, Lil Wayne’s revelations serve as a reminder of his enduring impact on the music world. His ability to adapt, innovate, and celebrate the achievements of his peers ensures that he remains a pivotal figure in hip-hop, continually shaping its future while honoring its past.