Lil Wayne, the legendary rapper from New Orleans, has been dominating the hip-hop scene since his teenage years. With his unique flow, clever wordplay, and endless energy, Weezy has dropped hit after hit, evolving from a Hot Boys member to a solo superstar. If you’re diving into his music or revisiting classics, this guide lists all of Lil Wayne’s solo studio albums in chronological order. We’ll break down each one with key details, a Spotify embed for easy listening, a short overview (around 100 words), and the full track list. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to his catalog, get ready to explore the evolution of one of rap’s greatest. Let’s start from the beginning!
List Of Lil Wayne Albums In Order by Year
The complete list of Lil Wayne albums in order highlights his iconic journey from Tha Block Is Hot to Tha Carter V. Each album reflects his evolution as a rapper, showcasing lyrical brilliance, diverse styles, and cultural influence, making him one of hip-hop’s most celebrated and enduring artists.
| Release Date | Album Title | Label | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| November 2, 1999 | Tha Block Is Hot | Cash Money, Universal | Debut solo album, went platinum |
| December 19, 2000 | Lights Out | Cash Money, Universal | Peaked at No. 16 on Billboard 200, certified gold |
| July 23, 2002 | 500 Degreez | Cash Money, Universal | Peaked at No. 6 on Billboard 200, certified gold |
| June 29, 2004 | Tha Carter | Cash Money, Universal | First in Carter series, went platinum |
| December 6, 2005 | Tha Carter II | Cash Money, Universal | Peaked at No. 2 on Billboard 200, platinum |
| June 10, 2008 | Tha Carter III | Cash Money, Universal | Debuted at No. 1, multi-platinum, Grammy winner |
| February 2, 2010 | Rebirth | Cash Money, Universal | Rock album, certified gold |
| September 27, 2010 | I Am Not a Human Being | Cash Money, Universal | Released during prison stint, went platinum |
| August 29, 2011 | Tha Carter IV | Cash Money, Universal | Debuted at No. 1, multi-platinum |
| March 26, 2013 | I Am Not a Human Being II | Cash Money, Universal | Peaked at No. 2, certified platinum |
| July 4, 2015 | Free Weezy Album | Young Money, Republic | TIDAL exclusive initially, peaked at No. 77 |
| September 28, 2018 | Tha Carter V | Young Money, Republic | Debuted at No. 1, certified platinum |
| January 31, 2020 | Funeral | Young Money, Republic | Debuted at No. 1, certified gold |
Lil Wayne Albums In Order: A Complete Guide to Weezy’s Discography
1. Tha Block Is Hot (1999)
Released on November 2, 1999, Tha Block Is Hot marked Lil Wayne’s explosive debut as a solo artist at just 17 years old. Backed by Cash Money Records and produced entirely by Mannie Fresh, this album showcased Wayne’s raw talent and street-smart lyrics, blending Southern bounce with gritty storytelling. It peaked at No. 3 on the Billboard 200, selling over a million copies and earning platinum status. Hits like the title track introduced Wayne’s high-pitched delivery and clever punchlines, setting the stage for his rise as a rap phenom. This classic captures the essence of early Cash Money energy and Wayne’s youthful hunger.
Track List:
1. Intro (feat. Big Tymers)
2. Tha Block Is Hot
3. Loud Pipes (feat. Juvenile, B.G. & Big Tymers)
4. Watcha Wanna Do
5. Kisha (feat. Hot Boys)
6. High Beamin’ (feat. B.G.)
7. Lights Off
8. Fuck Tha World
9. Remember Me (feat. B.G.)
10. Respect Us (feat. Juvenile)
11. Drop It Like It’s Hot (feat. B.G. & Mannie Fresh)
12. Young Playa (feat. Big Tymers)
13. Enemy Turf (feat. Juvenile)
14. Not Like Me (feat. Big Tymers & Paparue)
15. Come On (feat. B.G.)
16. Up to Me
17. You Want War (feat. Turk)
2. Lights Out (2000)
Dropping on December 19, 2000, Lights Out was Lil Wayne’s sophomore effort, building on his debut’s momentum. Again produced by Mannie Fresh, it highlighted Wayne’s growing confidence and lyrical prowess amid Cash Money’s rising empire. Though it didn’t match the sales of his first album, peaking at No. 16 on the Billboard 200 and going gold, tracks like “Shine” featuring the Hot Boys became anthems. At 18, Wayne tackled themes of street life, success, and maturity, showing glimpses of the versatile artist he’d become. This underrated gem solidifies his place in Southern rap history with infectious beats and sharp bars.
Track List:
1. Intro (Watch Them People)
2. Get Off the Corner
3. On the Grind
4. Hit U Up (feat. Hot Boys)
5. Everything
6. Fuck Wit Me Now
7. Lil One (feat. Big Tymers)
8. Break Me Off (feat. Big Tymers & Unplugged)
9. Skit
10. Wish You Would
11. Grown Man
12. Shine (feat. Hot Boys)
13. Jump Jiggy
14. Realized
15. Tha Blues
16. Let’s Go (feat. Big Tymers)
17. Biznite
18. Act a Ass (feat. B.G.)
19. Beef
3. 500 Degreez (2002)
Lil Wayne’s third album, 500 Degreez, hit shelves on July 23, 2002, as a playful nod to Juvenile’s 400 Degreez after his labelmate’s exit from Cash Money. Produced mostly by Mannie Fresh, it blended high-energy tracks with introspective moments, peaking at No. 6 on the Billboard 200 and earning gold certification. At 19, Wayne navigated label drama while delivering hits like “Way of Life” featuring Big Tymers and TQ. The album reflects his resilience and evolving style, mixing gangsta rap with radio-friendly hooks. Though not his biggest commercial success, it’s a key chapter in Wayne’s journey to stardom.
Track List:
1. Fly Talkin’
2. Look at Me
3. Way of Life (feat. Big Tymers & TQ)
4. Big Tigger Live on the Radio (skit)
5. Gangsta Shit (feat. Petey Pablo)
6. This Is the Carter (feat. Mannie Fresh)
7. Lovely
8. Gangsta and Pimps (feat. Baby)
9. Big Tigger Live on the Radio #2 (skit)
10. Bloodline
11. Where You At
12. Worry Me
13. 500 Degreez
14. Go Hard
15. Young’n Blues
16. Believe That (feat. Blaque & Mannie Fresh)
17. Rob Nice Live on the Radio (skit)
18. Fuck You (feat. Big Tymers)
19. What Does Life Mean to Me (feat. TQ & Big Tymers)
20. Get That Dough (feat. Baby, Tateeze & Cristale)
21. Fo Sheezy
4. Tha Carter (2004)
Released on June 29, 2004, Tha Carter kicked off Lil Wayne’s iconic series, signaling a new era for the young rapper. Produced by Mannie Fresh, it debuted at No. 5 on the Billboard 200, going platinum and establishing Wayne as a solo force. Tracks like “Go DJ” became massive hits, showcasing his charismatic flow and clever metaphors. At 21, Wayne explored themes of loss, success, and loyalty, dedicating songs to fallen friends. This album marked his artistic growth, blending Southern bounce with emotional depth, and set the foundation for the Carter legacy that’s defined his career.
Track List:
1. Walk In
2. Go DJ
3. This Is the Carter (feat. Mannie Fresh)
4. BM J.R.
5. On the Block #1 (skit)
6. I Miss My Dawgs (feat. Reel)
7. We Don’t (feat. Baby)
8. On My Own (feat. Reel)
9. Tha Heat
10. Cash Money Millionaires
11. Inside
12. Bring It Back (feat. Mannie Fresh)
13. Who Wanna
14. On the Block #2 (skit)
15. Get Down (feat. Baby)
16. Snitch
17. Hoes (feat. Mannie Fresh)
18. Only Way (feat. Baby & TQ)
19. Earthquake
20. Ain’t That a Bitch
21. Walk Out
5. Tha Carter II (2005)
Lil Wayne’s Tha Carter II, released December 6, 2005, solidified his status as rap’s rising star. Departing from Mannie Fresh’s sole production, it featured diverse beats and debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200, selling over a million copies. Tracks like “Fireman” and “Hustler Musik” highlighted Wayne’s maturing lyrics and confident delivery. At 23, he declared himself the “best rapper alive,” tackling fame, street life, and ambition. This album bridged his early work and superstardom, with introspective moments and high-energy anthems that showcased his versatility and set the tone for future classics.
Track List:
1. Tha Mobb
2. Fly In
3. Money on My Mind
4. Fireman
5. Mo Fire
6. On tha Block #1 (skit)
7. Best Rapper Alive
8. Lock and Load (feat. Kurupt)
9. Oh No
10. Grown Man (feat. Curren$y)
11. On tha Block #2 (skit)
12. Hit Em Up
13. Carter II
14. Hustler Musik
15. Receipt
16. Shooter (feat. Robin Thicke)
17. Weezy Baby (feat. Nikki)
18. On tha Block #3 (skit)
19. I’m a Dboy (feat. Birdman)
20. Feel Me
21. Get Over (feat. Nikki)
22. Fly Out
6. Tha Carter III (2008)
Tha Carter III, unleashed on June 10, 2008, catapulted Lil Wayne to global superstardom. After leaks and delays, it sold over a million copies in its first week, debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and going multi-platinum. Produced by a star-studded team including Kanye West and Swizz Beatz, it featured mega-hits like “Lollipop” and “A Milli.” Wayne’s innovative Auto-Tune use and bizarre wordplay shone through, earning Grammys and critical acclaim. This album captured his peak creativity, blending humor, introspection, and bravado, cementing his “best rapper alive” claim during a transformative era in hip-hop.
Track List:
1. 3 Peat
2. Mr. Carter (feat. Jay-Z)
3. A Milli
4. Got Money (feat. T-Pain)
5. Comfortable (feat. Babyface)
6. Dr. Carter
7. Phone Home
8. Tie My Hands (feat. Robin Thicke)
9. Mrs. Officer (feat. Bobby V & Kidd Kidd)
10. Let the Beat Build
11. Shoot Me Down (feat. D. Smith)
12. Lollipop (feat. Static Major)
13. La La (feat. Brisco & Busta Rhymes)
14. Playing with Fire
15. You Ain’t Got Nuthin (feat. Juelz Santana & Fabolous)
16. DontGetIt
7. Rebirth (2010)
Rebirth, released February 2, 2010, was Lil Wayne’s bold rock experiment amid legal troubles. Debuting at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 with 176,000 copies sold, it went gold despite mixed reviews. Produced by Cool & Dre and others, it featured guitar-driven tracks and Auto-Tune, with guests like Eminem on “Drop the World.” Wayne aimed to blend genres, but critics panned it as uneven. Still, it showcased his willingness to innovate during a chaotic period, including his prison sentence. Rebirth remains a curious detour in his discography, highlighting his rock star ambitions beyond rap.
Track List:
1. American Star (feat. Shanell)
2. Prom Queen (feat. Shanell)
3. Ground Zero
4. Da Da Da
5. Paradice
6. Get a Life
7. On Fire
8. Drop the World (feat. Eminem)
9. Runnin (feat. Shanell)
10. One Way Trip (feat. Kevin Rudolf)
11. Knockout (feat. Nicki Minaj)
12. The Price Is Wrong
8. I Am Not a Human Being (2010)
Released digitally on September 27, 2010, during Wayne’s prison stint, I Am Not a Human Being bridged the gap to Tha Carter IV. It debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 via digital sales, later hitting No. 1 physically, and went platinum. Produced by Boi-1da and others, it featured Young Money artists like Drake and Nicki Minaj. Tracks like “Right Above It” with Drake became hits. This album returned to rap roots after Rebirth’s rock venture, offering fans a mixtape-like vibe with Wayne’s signature wit, proving his influence even from behind bars.
Track List:
1. Gonorrhea (feat. Drake)
2. Hold Up (feat. T-Streets)
3. With You (feat. Drake)
4. I Am Not a Human Being
5. I’m Single
6. What’s Wrong with Them (feat. Nicki Minaj)
7. Right Above It (feat. Drake)
8. Popular (feat. Lil Twist)
9. That Ain’t Me (feat. Jay Sean)
10. Bill Gates
9. Tha Carter IV (2011)
Tha Carter IV arrived August 29, 2011, post-prison, debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 with 964,000 first-week sales, going multi-platinum. Produced by Polow da Don and others, it featured stars like Drake and Rick Ross. Hits like “6 Foot 7 Foot” and “How to Love” dominated charts. Wayne addressed his hiatus with aggressive bars and vulnerability, reclaiming his throne. Though some critics noted inconsistencies, it affirmed his resilience and commercial power, blending trap, pop, and introspection in a post-Carter III world.
Track List:
1. Intro
2. Blunt Blowin
3. MegaMan
4. 6 Foot 7 Foot (feat. Cory Gunz)
5. Nightmares of the Bottom
6. She Will (feat. Drake)
7. How to Hate (feat. T-Pain)
8. Interlude (feat. Tech N9ne)
9. John (feat. Rick Ross)
10. Abortion
11. So Special (feat. John Legend)
12. How to Love
13. President Carter
14. It’s Good (feat. Jadakiss & Drake)
15. Outro (feat. Bun B, Nas, Shyne & Busta Rhymes)
10. I Am Not a Human Being II (2013)
I Am Not a Human Being II, released March 26, 2013, followed Wayne’s legal battles, debuting at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 with 217,000 copies sold, eventually going platinum. Produced by Mike Will Made-It and others, it featured 2 Chainz and Drake. Tracks like “Love Me” became hits, but critics mixed on its vulgarity and length. Wayne explored fame, sex, and violence with his signature punchlines. This sequel to the 2010 album showed his continued evolution, blending trap and rock elements, though it faced scrutiny for inconsistency amid his health scares.
Track List:
1. IANAHB
2. Curtains (feat. Boo)
3. Days and Days (feat. 2 Chainz)
4. Gunwalk (feat. Gudda Gudda)
5. No Worries (feat. Detail)
6. Back to You
7. Trigger Finger (feat. Soulja Boy)
8. Beat the Shit (feat. Gunplay)
9. Rich as Fuck (feat. 2 Chainz)
10. Trippy (feat. Juicy J)
11. Love Me (feat. Drake & Future)
12. Romance
13. God Bless Amerika
14. Wowzerz (feat. Trina)
15. Hello (feat. Shane Heyl)
11. Free Weezy Album (2015)
Free Weezy Album dropped exclusively on TIDAL July 4, 2015, amid Wayne’s Cash Money feud, later hitting other platforms in 2020. It peaked at No. 77 on the Billboard 200. Produced by Infamous and others, it featured Wiz Khalifa and Jeezy. Tracks like “Glory” showcased Wayne’s fire, blending trap and introspection. This “free” project symbolized his label struggles, with raw lyrics on freedom and legacy. Though not a commercial giant, it reinvigorated fans, proving Wayne’s enduring talent during a turbulent time, and served as a bridge to Tha Carter V.
Track List:
1. Glory
2. He’s Dead
3. I Feel Good
4. My Heart Races On (feat. Jake Troth)
5. London Roads
6. I’m That Nigga (feat. HoodyBaby)
7. Psycho (feat. Leah Hayes)
8. Murda (feat. Cory Gunz, Capo & Junior Reid)
9. Thinking Bout You
10. Without You (feat. Bibi Bourelly)
11. Post Bail Ballin
12. Pull Up (feat. Euro)
13. Living Right (feat. Wiz Khalifa)
14. White Girl (feat. Jeezy)
15. Pick Up Your Heart
16. Street Chains
12. Tha Carter V (2018)
After years of delays and legal drama, Tha Carter V finally released September 28, 2018, debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 with 480,000 units. Produced by Zaytoven and others, it featured Kendrick Lamar and Snoop Dogg. Hits like “Uproar” and “Mona Lisa” revived Wayne’s buzz. At 36, he reflected on life, loss, and triumphs with emotional depth and classic bars. This long-awaited sequel closed a chapter, earning platinum status and critical praise for its vulnerability, proving Wayne’s timeless relevance in rap.
Track List:
1. I Love You Dwayne
2. Don’t Cry (feat. XXXTentacion)
3. Dedicate
4. Uproar
5. Let It Fly (feat. Travis Scott)
6. Can’t Be Broken
7. Dark Side of the Moon (feat. Nicki Minaj)
8. Mona Lisa (feat. Kendrick Lamar)
9. What About Me (feat. Sosamann)
10. Open Letter
11. Famous (feat. Reginae Carter)
12. Problems
13. Dope Niggaz (feat. Snoop Dogg)
14. Hittas
15. Took His Time
16. Open Safe
17. Start This Shit Off Right (feat. Ashanti & Mack 10)
18. Demon
19. Mess
20. Dope Newz (feat. Nivea)
21. Perfect Strangers
22. Used 2
23. Let It All Work Out
13. Funeral (2020)
Funeral, released January 31, 2020, debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, marking Wayne’s fifth chart-topper. A deluxe version followed in May with added features like Lil Uzi Vert. Produced by Mike Will Made-It and others, it included Big Sean and posthumous XXXTentacion. Tracks like “Mahogany” blended trap and introspection. At 37, Wayne explored mortality, success, and relationships with his signature wordplay. Though criticized for length, it went gold, showcasing his adaptability in modern rap while honoring his legacy amid evolving sounds.
Track List:
1. Funeral
2. Mahogany
3. Mama Mia
4. I Do It (feat. Big Sean & Lil Baby)
5. Dreams
6. Stop Playin with Me
7. Clap for Em
8. Bing James (feat. Jay Rock)
9. Not Me
10. Trust Nobody (feat. Adam Levine)
11. Know You Know (feat. 2 Chainz)
12. Wild Dogs
13. Harden
14. I Don’t Sleep (feat. Takeoff)
15. Sights and Silencers (feat. The-Dream)
16. Ball Hard (feat. Lil Twist)
17. Bastard (Satan’s Kid)
18. Get Outta My Head (feat. XXXTentacion)
19. Piano Trap
20. Line Em Up
21. Darkside
22. Never Mind
23. T.O. (feat. O.T. Genasis)
24. Wayne’s World
Frequently Asked Questions About Lil Wayne’s Albums
1. What is Lil Wayne’s most successful album? Tha Carter III (2008) is widely considered Lil Wayne’s most successful album. It debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, sold over a million copies in its first week, and went multi-platinum. Hits like “Lollipop” and “A Milli” dominated charts, earning a Grammy for Best Rap Album. Its commercial and critical success solidified Wayne’s status as a rap icon.
2. How many studio albums has Lil Wayne released? As of September 2025, Lil Wayne has released 13 solo studio albums, from Tha Block Is Hot (1999) to Funeral (2020). This excludes mixtapes, collaborative projects, and EPs. His prolific output, especially the Tha Carter series, showcases his evolution and lasting impact on hip-hop.
3. Which Lil Wayne album should I start with? For new listeners, Tha Carter III (2008) is the perfect starting point. It’s his most accessible and iconic work, blending catchy hits (“Lollipop”) with lyrical depth (“A Milli”). For early Wayne, try Tha Block Is Hot (1999) for raw energy, or Tha Carter V (2018) for a mature, reflective vibe.
4. Why was Tha Carter V delayed for so long? Tha Carter V faced years of delays due to legal disputes with Cash Money Records and Birdman. Contractual issues and financial disagreements stalled its release from 2014 to 2018. Wayne’s public feud and eventual resolution allowed the album to drop, debuting at No. 1 to critical acclaim.
5. Is Free Weezy Album a studio album or a mixtape? Free Weezy Album (2015) is considered a studio album, though it has a mixtape-like vibe. Released during Wayne’s Cash Money disputes, it was initially a TIDAL exclusive. Tracks like “Glory” and its raw energy make it a unique entry in his discography, later certified as a studio effort.
Conclusion
Lil Wayne’s discography is a testament to his evolution from a teenage prodigy to a hip-hop legend. From the raw Southern bounce of Tha Block Is Hot to the introspective Tha Carter V and the experimental Funeral, each album captures a chapter of his life, blending witty wordplay, bold innovation, and cultural impact. With 13 studio albums, multiple platinum certifications, and a Grammy-winning legacy, Wayne’s influence remains unmatched. Dive into his music via the Spotify embeds above, and let us know in the comments which Lil Wayne album is your favorite or what you’d like to see next from Weezy!
