Lil Wayne Biography

In response to several unreleased tracks being made public over the Internet, Wayne released download-only EP The Leak in 2007. The songs came from his work on his anxiously anticipated next studio album, which was finally released in 2008. Tha Carter III (2008) hit the top of the rap, hip-hop, and pop charts, selling more than 1 million copies in its first week of release.

Tha Carter III features several successful singles, including number one hits "A Milli" and "Lollipop"—a track he recorded with Static Major. Jay-Z appeared on the track "Mr. Carter" and as did T-Pain on "Got Money." Babyface, Robin Thicke, Busta Rhymes, Juelz Santana also made cameos.

The recording netted the Grammy Award for Best Rap Album, and Lil Wayne picked up three more honors at the February 2009 ceremony. He won Best Rap Song for "Lollipop" and "A Milli" earned him the Best Rap Solo Performance Grammy. Joining forces with Jay-Z, T.I., and Kanye West, Lil Wayne shared the Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group for "Swagga Like Us."

During the summer of 2009, Lil Wayne spent much of his time on the road with the Young Money Presents: America's Most Wanted Music Festival, which also featured Young Jeezy, Soulja Boy, and Drake. Fans have been anxiously anticipating Lil Wayne's next major recording, Rebirth, which reportedly has a strong rock influence. A release date for the project has yet to be scheduled. In the meanwhile, Lil Wayne has been busy building up his Cash Money record label and working with other recording artists. In August 2009, he signed rapper Bow Wow to his label. Lil Wayne also performed with Jay Sean on his hit song "Down."

For all of his success, Wayne has never forgotten his roots. He established the One Family Foundation to help urban youth. Through his charitable organization, Wayne is working to rebuild the athletic fields at his old school, Eleanor McMain Secondary School, after they were destroyed by Hurricane Katrina in 2005.

Known to be fond of smoking marijuana, Wayne has found himself in trouble with the law on several occasions in recent years. He was arrested in Georgia in 2006 for drug possession. In January 2008, Wayne was again arrested in Arizona on drug-related charges.

Formerly married to a high school girlfriend, Wayne has a daughter, Reginae, from that relationship.

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