Anyone who is a fan of Hip hop, Rap or even just music in general will recognize the name Lil Wayne. The self-proclaimed “Best Rapper Alive” has been at the top of the game for many years now, best known for his 2008, Grammy Award winning album, The Carter lll. Since this Lil Wayne has released dozens of singles and mix tapes, while also featured in numerous celebrity hits. From there it was no surprise when he in grew in popularity as he released his pre-recorded album, I Am Not a Human Being from prison. All of this while handling the largest record company in rap, Young Money since labels like Death Row and Bad Boy Records. Young Money lead by Lil Wayne has produced house hold names such as Drake and Nicki Minaj.

What seems to make Lil Wayne so different from the rest is his X factor that he carries on producing and living through his music. And after almost 15 years of producing music the border line genius, and definite mad man, continues to bring something completely new to the game every time. Unlike other fading rap stars, Lil Wayne appeals to many different classes and cultures. The point being made, it’s not just another typical rap story that starts in the hood and ends in fame, fortune and woman. The difference that Lil Wayne brings to the game is his crafty wordplay that makes you rewind that song and do a double take on what he just said. There is little dispute that the man is the master of riddles and wordplay with lyrics such as “Real Gs move in silence like lasagne” in 6’7”, or even his older music I’m Me with lines like “I know the game, it’s crazy, more crazy than it’s ever been. I’m married to that crazy B****, call me Kevin Federline.”

In my recent visit to the US I figured that there was no way I was going to miss a renowned Lil Wayne Concert if there was one anywhere nearby.  And I’m really glad I stood by that decision.  The Lil Wayne Concert took place in Hartford Connecticut, located on the east coast of the US a few hours from New York. The stadium which held 40,000 was sold out and packed with teenagers by 4 PM, 2 hours before the show was set to start. What was a surprise was the fact that demographically it was completely mixed. There was a great vibe and from my experience a great crowd. The show started with support acts from the likes of Loyd Banks, Keri Hilson, Far East Movement, Gudda Gudda, Birdman and even Rick Ross, most of which came on again later to do more songs with the man himself Lil Wayne. At around 10 PM Lil Wayne came on to preform relentlessly belting out song after song until 1 AM. The rapper took no breaks and preformed a wide range of his songs from his old and new. Some of my favourite tracks that he performed were How to Love, I’m Me, Drop the World, A MIlli, Mrs. Officer,John with Rick Ross and Nightmares Of The Bottom. Lil Wayne was in good spirits, always thanking the fans between songs and giving respect to past rappers like Tupac and Notorious B.I.G. And with this all the other preformers on stage proclaimed Lil Wayne to be the best rapper alive. Though I must say id have to agree. In terms of my concert experience I’d give this show a 5 star performance undoubtedly. All I can say is if you like rap and hip hop, this was not a concert you would want to miss. I would even going to go as far as saying, best concert I have ever seen, to date.

Lil Wayne will be releasing his much anticipated album; The Carter 4 on the 29th of August 2011, after the original release date, late June, was postponed again. While perfecting this album Lil Wayne has told fans to be sure to go listen to his free mix tape, Sorry for the Wait. The Carter 4, nicknamed C4 will hopefully live up to its explosive name. The 15 track album will hold 4 of his newly released singles like John featuring Rick Ross, She Will featuring Drake with the rest all completely new tracks.

As a huge fan of Weezy, I can confess that I have already made plans to buy The Carter 4. Though I may seem eager I have no doubt there are many other, just as anticipated fans, which are keen to see what Lil Wayne will come up with next.

For your entertainment- Matt Cryer

Photo taken at the Hartford Concert by LilWayneHQ