Lil Wayne Unleashes Distinct Persona for Features: 'I don’t know that guy, I just know he always comes through'
By Sara Gaini
In a recent episode of Apple Music's Young Money Radio, Lil Wayne provided a glimpse into his creative process, offering insights into his approach when delivering standout guest features. Paired with guest Tyga, Wayne revealed a fascinating aspect of his artistry, expressing, "When it comes to them verses and them features, I admit there’s a me that I turn on for features that I do not know what the hell goes on. I don’t know that guy, I just know he always comes through.
This revelation sheds light on the enigmatic and multifaceted nature of Lil Wayne's musical persona. The idea that even the artist himself finds a distinct version emerging during featured performances adds a layer of complexity to his already legendary status in the hip-hop realm.
During the conversation, Wayne extended the discussion to Tyga, emphasizing the assurance he brings to collaborations. Comparing his guest verses to Tyga's ability to produce hits, Wayne stated, "Me featuring on someone’s song and killing the verse is just as sure as this man [Tyga] putting out a hit out. What Snoop said? These muthafuckas right here, we don’t miss."
Lil Wayne's recent feature on Benny The Butcher's "Big Dog" has garnered significant acclaim, showcasing his continued prowess as a featured artist. The Alchemist-produced track is set to be part of Benny The Butcher's upcoming debut album on Def Jam, titled "Everybody Can’t Go."
Wayne's stellar contributions extend beyond this recent feature, with noteworthy verses on tracks such as Nas' "Never Die," DJ Khaled's "God Did," Tyler, The Creator's "Hot Wind Blows," and Tyga and YG's "Brand New." This prolific feature run underscores Lil Wayne's enduring impact and versatility in the ever-evolving landscape of hip-hop.
As a veteran in the industry, Lil Wayne's reputation as a sought-after guest feature artist traces back to the late '90s, with memorable appearances on Cash Money hits like Juvenile's "Back That Azz Up" and B.G.'s "Bling Bling." Now, in the fourth decade of his illustrious career, Wayne continues to collaborate with a diverse array of artists, including Eminem, JAY-Z, Kanye West, Nicki Minaj, Drake, and many more.
Notably, several of Wayne's feature verses have received Grammy nominations, showcasing the enduring impact of his contributions to the rap genre. Whether it's the iconic "Make It Rain" with Fat Joe, "Soldier" with Destiny’s Child and Fat Joe, or "I’m On One" with DJ Khaled, Drake, and Rick Ross, Lil Wayne's versatility and artistry remain unparalleled.
The Grammy-winning collaboration "Swagga Like Us" with JAY-Z and T.I. in 2009 further solidified Wayne's position as a force in the industry. With each guest feature, Lil Wayne continues to reaffirm his status as an influential figure in hip-hop, leaving an indelible mark on the genre's ever-evolving landscape.