Lil Wayne Albums Ranked: Fan Favorites (2025)
Stepping into the vast and influential world of Lil Wayne is always an electrifying experience for music fans.
His discography isn't just a collection of albums; it's a timeline of modern hip-hop's evolution. Today, we're taking on the exciting task of exploring Lil Wayne albums ranked, looking first at how the fans feel.
This journey will highlight what many consider the best Lil Wayne albums, driven by community sentiment. We'll also touch on how these releases stack up based on current popularity data. Let's dive in!
Ranking Lil Wayne's albums: The fan favorites
Here's how the albums stack up based on fan sentiment, community discussions, and overall buzz.
We're starting with the most beloved.
1. Funeral (2020)
Released in early 2020, `Funeral` marked Lil Wayne's thirteenth studio album.
It featured an extensive list of guest artists. Big Sean, Lil Baby, Jay Rock, and Adam Levine were among them.
A deluxe edition, released later, added even more names. Doja Cat, Tory Lanez, and Lil Uzi Vert joined the project.
The album made a strong commercial debut. It landed at number one on the US Billboard 200.
Key tracks:
- Mahogany
- I Do It (ft. Big Sean, Lil Baby)
Securing the top spot in our fan-driven ranking, `Funeral` clearly resonated deeply with Lil Wayne's audience upon its release.
Its blend of modern sounds and Wayne's signature lyricism seems to be a winning combination for many listeners.
2. Tha Carter (2004)
`Tha Carter`, released in 2004, is the first installment in Lil Wayne's iconic album series.
This series has spanned over two decades, with a total of six albums planned as of early 2025.
These albums have been released under various labels. Cash Money Records and Young Money Entertainment are notable among them.
Producers like Mannie Fresh and Kanye West have contributed significantly to the series' sound.
Key tracks:
- Go DJ
- BM J.R.
Coming in strong at number two, `Tha Carter` holds a special place in the hearts of many fans.
It's often seen as a pivotal moment. This album marked a significant step in Lil Wayne's evolution as an artist.
3. Rebirth (2009)
`Rebirth` is Lil Wayne's seventh studio album, released in early 2010.
This project was famously promoted as Wayne's rock music debut. However, it still incorporated hip hop tracks.
Guest appearances included artists like Eminem, Shanell, and Nicki Minaj.
Despite mixed critical reviews, the album debuted at number two on the US Billboard 200. It eventually achieved platinum certification.
Key tracks:
- Drop The World - Album Version
- Knockout - Album Version
The polarizing `Rebirth` lands at number three, a testament to its memorable impact, whether loved or debated.
Fans often discuss its ambitious genre shift. For some, this experimentation is a key part of its appeal.
4. Tha Carter III (2008)
`Tha Carter III`, Lil Wayne's sixth studio album, was released in June 2008.
It followed a successful run of mixtapes and high-profile guest appearances. The album featured stars like Jay-Z, T-Pain, and Kanye West.
It was a massive commercial success. It sold over one million copies in its first week in the US.
The album spawned major hits including "Lollipop" and "A Milli." It earned widespread critical acclaim and won a Grammy for Best Rap Album.
Key tracks:
- Lollipop
- A Milli
A landmark album for many, `Tha Carter III` sits at number four according to fan sentiment.
Its chart dominance and critical success solidified Lil Wayne's status as a superstar. Fans often recall its major cultural impact.
5. No Ceilings (2009)
`No Ceilings` is Lil Wayne's renowned mixtape, originally released in 2009.
It became famous for Wayne's freestyles over popular instrumentals. The mixtape received widespread critical acclaim upon its initial free release.
An abridged version was officially released to streaming services in August 2020. This version excluded some original tracks but added a bonus song.
Key tracks:
- Shoes
- Surf Swag
The legendary mixtape `No Ceilings` captures the fifth spot. Its official streaming release brought a classic back to the forefront.
Fans consistently praise Lil Wayne's lyrical dexterity and creative energy on this project.
6. Tha Carter V (2018)
`Tha Carter V`, Lil Wayne's twelfth studio album, arrived in September 2018.
Its release followed years of delays due to contractual disputes. The album featured a diverse cast of guests, including Kendrick Lamar, Nicki Minaj, and Travis Scott.
It debuted at number one on the Billboard 200. The album achieved one of the largest streaming weeks ever at the time.
A deluxe edition was released in 2020 to mark its second anniversary.
Key tracks:
- Let It All Work Out
- Mona Lisa (feat. Kendrick Lamar)
The long-awaited `Tha Carter V` ranks at number six with fans.
Its eventual release was a major event. Many listeners appreciated the personal themes and lyrical depth after the extended anticipation.
7. Tha Carter IV (2011)
`Tha Carter IV` is Lil Wayne's ninth studio album, released in August 2011.
Recording sessions for the album had started much earlier but faced several delays. This included Wayne's prison sentence at the time.
The album features a notable list of collaborators. Drake, Rick Ross, John Legend, and André 3000 are among them.
It debuted at number one on the US Billboard 200. It sold 964,000 copies in its first week. Critical reception was generally mixed.
Key tracks:
- She Will
- 6 Foot 7 Foot
At number seven, `Tha Carter IV` is another highly discussed entry in Lil Wayne's discography.
Fans often point to its collection of hit singles and memorable guest verses as high points.
8. Tha Block Is Hot (1999)
`Tha Block Is Hot` is the debut studio album by Lil Wayne.
It was released in November 1999 by Cash Money Records and Universal Records.
The album was almost entirely produced by Mannie Fresh. It showcased a young Wayne stepping into the solo spotlight.
It debuted at number three on the US Billboard 200. The album was certified platinum just over a month after its release.
Key tracks:
- Tha Block Is Hot
- Fuck Tha World
Lil Wayne's debut, `Tha Block Is Hot`, holds the eighth position in this fan ranking.
It's remembered fondly by many as the introduction to a future icon. The raw energy of a young Lil Wayne is a significant draw.
9. I Am Not A Human Being (2010)
`I Am Not A Human Being` is Lil Wayne's eighth studio album.
It was digitally released in September 2010, while Wayne was serving a prison sentence. A physical release followed in October 2010.
The album was recorded before his prison term. It featured production from Boi-1da, Cool & Dre, and Streetrunner.
It debuted at number two digitally and later topped the Billboard 200. This made it the first album since Tupac's `Me Against the World` to hit number one while the artist was incarcerated.
Key tracks:
- Right Above It
- Bill Gates
Ranked ninth by fans, `I Am Not A Human Being` is noted for its unique release circumstances.
Listeners often appreciate its raw, mixtape-like feel. The project served as a significant placeholder during a pivotal time in Wayne's career.
10. Trust Fund Babies (2021)
`Trust Fund Babies` is a collaborative mixtape by Lil Wayne and Rich The Kid.
It was released in October 2021 through Young Money, Republic, and Rostrum Records.
The project features a sole guest appearance from YG. Its lead single, "Feelin' Like Tunechi," was released concurrently with the mixtape.
Critical reception for the mixtape was mixed.
Key tracks:
- Feelin' Like Tunechi
- Headlock
The collaborative project `Trust Fund Babies` with Rich The Kid lands at number ten.
While perhaps not as widely celebrated as some solo efforts, fans found moments of classic Wayne brilliance peppered throughout the tape.
11. FWA (2015)
`Free Weezy Album`, or `FWA`, is Lil Wayne's eleventh studio album.
It was released exclusively on TIDAL in July 2015. This release came during a period of disputes with Cash Money Records.
The album was later made available on other streaming platforms in July 2020. This wider release commemorated its fifth anniversary, though some tracks were altered or absent due to sample clearance issues.
Key tracks:
- London Roads
- Glory
Positioned at number eleven, `FWA` is often viewed by fans through the lens of its release context.
Many appreciated it as a strong statement of artistic independence during a turbulent career phase.
12. 500 Degreez (2002)
`500 Degreez` is Lil Wayne's third solo studio album. It was released in July 2002.
The title was a nod to Juvenile's successful 1998 album `400 Degreez`. This came after Juvenile and other Hot Boys members had left Cash Money Records.
Mannie Fresh handled most of the production. The album featured guests like Big Tymers and Petey Pablo.
It debuted at number six on the Billboard 200. The RIAA certified it gold in September 2002.
Key tracks:
- Way Of Life
- Where You At
Coming in at number twelve, `500 Degreez` is seen by many fans as a key album from Wayne's early solo career.
It represents a period of transition and growth, showcasing his developing style and confidence.
13. I Am Not A Human Being II (2013)
`I Am Not A Human Being II` is Lil Wayne's tenth studio album. It was released in March 2013.
This album serves as a sequel to his 2010 release. Recording sessions took place over several years, from 2006 to 2012.
It featured producers like Cool & Dre, Mike Will Made It, and Diplo. Guest appearances included Drake, Future, and 2 Chainz.
Despite mixed critical reviews, the album debuted at number two on the Billboard 200. It was certified double platinum in 2020.
Key tracks:
- Love Me
- Rich As Fuck
The sequel `I Am Not A Human Being II` holds the thirteenth spot based on fan sentiment.
While it delivered some notable hits, fans sometimes view it as a more varied collection compared to its focused predecessor.
14. Tha Carter VI (2025)
`Tha Carter VI` is presented as Lil Wayne's fourteenth solo studio album.
Slated for a June 2025 release, it aims to be the sixth installment in `Tha Carter` series.
This album follows his 2023 collaborative project with 2 Chainz. It also marks seven years since `Tha Carter V`.
The project lists a wide range of guest appearances. BigXthaPlug, Jelly Roll, Big Sean, and Bono are among the anticipated features.
Key tracks:
- Welcome to Tha Carter
- Hip-Hop (feat. BigXthaPlug, Jay Jones)
Even before its full impact is felt, the anticipation for `Tha Carter VI` places it at number fourteen.
Early tracks and announcements have stirred considerable buzz. Fans are eager to see how this new chapter unfolds in the iconic series.
15. Tha Carter II (2005)
`Tha Carter II` is the celebrated second album in Lil Wayne's flagship series.
Released in 2005, it marked a significant artistic leap for Wayne. Many critics and fans consider it a crucial point in his career.
The album largely moved away from Mannie Fresh's production. It showcased a more mature and lyrically focused Lil Wayne.
It featured hit singles like "Fireman" and "Hustler Musik."
Key tracks:
- Hustler Musik
- Fireman
A fan-favorite for many, `Tha Carter II` lands at number fifteen in this particular ranking aggregation.
Its lyrical prowess and distinct sound are consistently praised. It's often cited as a cornerstone of Lil Wayne's legacy.
16. Lights Out (2000)
`Lights Out` is Lil Wayne's second studio album. It was released in December 2000.
The album continued his early work with Cash Money Records. It followed his debut, `Tha Block Is Hot`.
It peaked at number 16 on the US Billboard 200 chart. The RIAA certified the album gold.
Production was once again primarily handled by Mannie Fresh.
Key tracks:
- Shine
- Get Off The Corner
Lil Wayne's sophomore effort, `Lights Out`, comes in at number sixteen.
Fans of his early material often appreciate this album. It showcases his developing skills and the signature Cash Money sound of that era.
17. Like Father Like Son (2006)
`Like Father, Like Son` is a collaborative studio album by Birdman and Lil Wayne.
Released in October 2006, it solidified their mentor-protégé dynamic on record.
The album featured guest appearances from artists like Fat Joe, T-Pain, and Rick Ross. Producers included Swizz Beatz and Scott Storch.
It debuted at number three on the Billboard 200. The album was certified gold by the RIAA in December 2006.
Key tracks:
- Stuntin' Like My Daddy
- Leather So Soft
The joint album with Birdman, `Like Father, Like Son`, is ranked seventeenth by fans.
It's remembered for its hit singles and the chemistry between the two Cash Money titans.
18. Sorry 4 The Wait (2011)
`Sorry 4 The Wait` is a well-known mixtape by Lil Wayne. It was originally released in July 2011.
The mixtape served as an apology for the delays of his album `Tha Carter IV`. It featured Wayne rapping over other artists' popular instrumentals.
In January 2022, nearly 11 years after its initial release, the mixtape was re-released on streaming platforms. This version included all original tracks plus four newly recorded songs.
Key tracks:
- Sorry 4 The Wait
- Twist Made Me
The official streaming release of `Sorry 4 The Wait` lands at number eighteen.
Fans celebrated its wider availability. The project captures a specific era of Wayne's mixtape dominance and lyrical onslaughts.
19. Welcome 2 Collegrove (2023)
`Welcome 2 Collegrove` is a collaborative studio album by 2 Chainz and Lil Wayne.
Released in November 2023, it serves as the sequel to their 2016 project `ColleGrove`.
It continues the "Collegrove" concept, blending the artists' hometown influences.
Key tracks:
- Long Story Short
- Presha
The recent collaboration `Welcome 2 Collegrove` with 2 Chainz is ranked nineteenth.
Listeners enjoyed the chemistry between the two rap veterans. The project offered a fresh dose of their combined lyrical talents.
20. Tha Fix Before Tha VI (2023)
`Tha Fix Before Tha VI` is a mixtape by Lil Wayne, released in September 2023.
It serves as a prelude to his anticipated fourteenth studio album, `Tha Carter VI`.
The mixtape consists of 10 tracks. It features guest appearances from Jon Batiste, Euro, and Fousheé.
The cover art is reminiscent of his 2011 mixtape `Sorry 4 the Wait`.
Key tracks:
- To The Bank
- Kat Food
Rounding out our fan-based ranking at number twenty is `Tha Fix Before Tha VI`.
As a prelude to a major album, fans approached this with interest. It offered a glimpse into Wayne's current creative space.
Picked your top Lil Wayne mixtape or album? Check out Lil Wayne's discography and chart history on his Artist hub.
Lil Wayne albums: A look at popularity data
While fan sentiment paints a rich picture, current popularity data can offer another interesting angle.
This looks at an artist's discography through a different lens.
Below is a ranking of Lil Wayne's albums based on their popularity scores from available data. This reflects which releases are currently seeing significant engagement.
| Popularity Rank | Album Title | Release Year |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | I Am Not A Human Being II | 2013 |
| 2 | Tha Carter V | 2018 |
| 3 | Tha Carter VI | 2025 |
| 4 | Tha Carter IV | 2011 |
| 5 | Tha Carter III | 2008 |
| 6 | Sorry 4 The Wait | 2022 |
| 7 | Tha Carter II | 2005 |
| 8 | No Ceilings | 2020 |
| 9 | Like Father Like Son | 2006 |
| 10 | Tha Carter | 2004 |
| 11 | Welcome 2 Collegrove | 2023 |
| 12 | Funeral | 2020 |
| 13 | Tha Fix Before Tha VI | 2023 |
| 14 | FWA | 2015 |
| 15 | Tha Block Is Hot | 1999 |
| 16 | Trust Fund Babies | 2021 |
| 17 | 500 Degreez | 2002 |
| 18 | Lights Out | 2000 |
| 19 | Rebirth | 2009 |
| 20 | I Am Not A Human Being | 2010 |
Quick FAQs about Lil Wayne's albums
Q: What was the significance of the album title `Funeral`?
A: Lil Wayne explained the title `Funeral` as a continuation of his 2010 album `Rebirth`. He intended it to follow up on the series concept.
Q: How did `Funeral` perform commercially upon its release?
A: `Funeral` debuted at the top of the US Billboard 200 chart. It recorded 139,000 album-equivalent units in its first week of release.
Ranking albums is always a lively debate, especially for an artist with a catalog as deep as Lil Wayne's.
Fan sentiment provides invaluable insight into the emotional connection these records forge. Popularity data, on the other hand, gives us a snapshot of current engagement.
Ultimately, the "best" Lil Wayne album is a personal choice. It's often tied to memories and moments each project soundtracks in our lives.
What does your own Lil Wayne albums ranked list look like? Which one stands as your definitive best Lil Wayne album?