© Zach Boyden-Holmes/The Register / USA TODAY NETWORK
After a nearly seven-year hiatus, superstar rapper Lil’ Wayne released a new album, “Tha Carter VI,” on Friday. But the response from fans wasn’t exactly what the legendary musician was hoping for, with some fans even using it to validate his lack of inclusion in the Super Bowl LIX halftime show in his home city of New Orleans.
For those who may not remember, Lil Wayne was passed over for the performance in favor of Kendrick Lamar despite the former having strong ties to the NFL. Roc Nation CEO Desiree Perez, who played an integral role in organizing the show, said that it was a matter of getting the right artist at the right time.
“New Orleans is so rich in culture. We have to take into consideration (that) whoever is going to perform can speak to music culture, regardless of age,” Perez said at the time It has to nod to real music, regardless of the genre. And Kendrick does that. Kendrick’s richness and culture is really a nod to New Orleans…
“Kendrick is the right person for the show at this moment…He’s had an incredible year, very deserving of the attention. The Grammys also acknowledged that. That’s part of the consideration.”
Lil Wayne Fans Call Him Out Over Horrible New ‘Tha Carter VI’ Album
Wayne, who regularly acknowledges how much the city of New Orleans means to him, was deeply hurt by his lack of involvement. At the time, many fans agreed, believing it to be a slap in the face. But after his latest album release, it appears that the narrative has shifted.
Wayne didn’t get picked for the superbowl and said “alright I’m about to lock in and show everyone they made a good decision”
— JewPac Shalom (@numnumjuice) June 6, 2025
How Roc Nation felt hearing Carter VI after choosing Kendrick over Wayne to be the Super Bowl halftime performer pic.twitter.com/nCZerMgY9c
— Joey (@gothamhiphop) June 6, 2025
i want all the mfs who were upset about wayne not getting a super bowl performance to press play on tha carter 6, tryna see sumn
— mutt (@hoagieclue) June 6, 2025
Sadly, even Lil’ Wayne has a shelf life when it comes to producing great music. For those of us who were around for “Tha Carter” up until “Tha Carter III,” we’ll remember just how good he was at the top of his game. But that time has long since passed, and it’s time for him to pass the torch.