Lil Wayne Delivers a Career-Spanning Medley of Hits on ‘SNL50’

Lil Wayne Delivers a Career-Spanning Medley of Hits on ‘SNL50’

Lil Wayne may not have taken center stage at Super Bowl LVIII, but he still managed to steal the spotlight on one of television’s most iconic nights. The New Orleans rap legend delivered an electrifying career-spanning medley on Saturday Night Live’s 50th-anniversary special, SNL50, which aired live on Sunday, February 16, 2025.

Backed by The Roots, Lil Wayne performed some of his biggest hits, reminding audiences of his incredible impact on hip-hop over the past two decades. His setlist included fan favorites such as “Uproar,” “Lollipop,” “6 Foot 7 Foot,” “Mrs. Officer,” and the grand finale, “A Milli.” Each song represented a different era in his career, taking fans on a journey through his evolution as an artist, from his early days as a teenage prodigy to becoming one of the most influential rappers of all time.

Wayne’s appearance on SNL50 wasn’t just about the music—it was a moment of celebration, nostalgia, and excitement for what’s to come. Just days before the Super Bowl, he teased fans with the promise of a “special announcement,” which many speculated could be related to his long-anticipated album, Tha Carter VI. Two days later, he confirmed that the album is set to drop on June 6, 2025, ending years of speculation and building anticipation among his loyal fanbase.

Instead of revealing the album details in a typical press release, Wayne chose a more unexpected and humorous approach. He starred in an extended Cetaphil commercial titled “We’re All a Lil Sensitive,” a clever nod to his well-documented disappointment at not being selected to headline the Super Bowl Halftime Show. In the ad, he poked fun at himself while embracing the idea that even rap superstars can have sensitive moments. The commercial quickly went viral, adding another layer to the excitement surrounding his return to the spotlight.

Lil Wayne’s Lasting Impact on Hip-Hop and Pop Culture

For over two decades, Lil Wayne has remained one of the most dynamic and influential figures in hip-hop. His ability to reinvent himself, experiment with new sounds, and consistently deliver hits has solidified his place as a rap icon. From his early days with Cash Money Records and the Hot Boys to his legendary mixtape run and chart-topping albums, Wayne’s influence is undeniable.

Songs like “Lollipop” and “A Milli” became defining tracks of the late 2000s, shaping the sound of mainstream hip-hop and inspiring an entire generation of artists. His wordplay, metaphors, and effortless ability to flow over any beat set a new standard for lyricism. Albums like Tha Carter III and Tha Carter IV cemented his status as one of the best rappers of his era, selling millions of copies worldwide and earning him multiple Grammy Awards.

Beyond music, Wayne has left an imprint on pop culture through his distinctive style, tattoos, and influence on street fashion. His love for skateboarding, rock music, and unconventional collaborations has made him one of the most versatile artists in hip-hop. He has seamlessly blended genres, working with everyone from Eminem and Drake to Nicki Minaj and Fall Out Boy. His willingness to push boundaries and experiment with his sound has allowed him to stay relevant in an industry that is constantly evolving.

His presence on SNL50 was more than just a performance—it was a reminder of his lasting legacy and continued dominance in the rap game. Fans on social media erupted with excitement, praising his stage presence, song selection, and undeniable charisma. Many noted that his ability to command the stage with just his voice and energy proved why he remains a force to be reckoned with.

A Star-Studded Night on SNL50

Lil Wayne’s performance was just one of many standout moments from SNL50, a night filled with music, comedy, and legendary appearances.

The special opened with Sabrina Carpenter and Paul Simon performing a heartfelt rendition of “Homeward Bound,” setting the tone for an evening filled with nostalgia and tributes. Later in the show, Miley Cyrus, Brittany Howard, and The Roots came together for a touching tribute to the late Sinéad O’Connor, performing “Nothing Compares 2 U,” the iconic song written by Prince. The emotional performance paid homage to O’Connor’s legacy and impact on the music industry.

To close out the evening, Paul McCartney took the stage for a medley of classic Beatles songs, including “Golden Slumbers,” “Carry That Weight,” and “The End.” His performance was a fitting conclusion to a night that celebrated five decades of SNL’s influence on music, culture, and comedy.

For Lil Wayne, being part of such a historic event further cemented his status as a cultural icon. His ability to stand alongside music legends like Paul McCartney and Prince speaks to his immense impact on the industry.

What’s Next for Lil Wayne?

With Tha Carter VI officially on the way, Lil Wayne is gearing up for one of the most anticipated album releases of the year. Fans have been eagerly waiting for the next installment in his iconic Carter series, and with the June 6 release date now confirmed, expectations are higher than ever.

Wayne has always been known for his ability to surprise and reinvent himself, and many are curious to see what direction he will take with his new music. His recent collaborations and guest verses indicate that he is still at the top of his game, effortlessly keeping up with younger artists while maintaining his signature style.

Aside from the album, there is speculation that Wayne could be planning a major tour, possibly revisiting some of the most iconic venues where he has performed throughout his career. Given his reputation as a high-energy live performer, a tour announcement would likely be met with overwhelming enthusiasm from fans.

Wayne has also hinted at new business ventures and collaborations outside of music. His involvement in the Cetaphil campaign showed that he is not afraid to step outside the traditional rap world and embrace opportunities in advertising, branding, and entrepreneurship.

While he may have been overlooked for the Super Bowl Halftime Show, his influence on the music industry remains undeniable. Many fans and critics believe that a Lil Wayne Super Bowl performance is inevitable and that it’s only a matter of time before he takes the biggest stage in entertainment.

A Career Defined by Longevity and Evolution

Lil Wayne’s ability to remain relevant, innovative, and ahead of his time has made him one of the greatest rappers of all time. His appearance on SNL50 was a reminder of his dominance, his impact, and his ability to captivate audiences with just his voice and presence.

As he gears up for the release of Tha Carter VI, fans can only expect more surprises, more hits, and more unforgettable moments. Whether it’s through his music, his brand partnerships, or his live performances, Lil Wayne continues to prove why he is a legend in the rap game.

For those who have followed his journey from the early Cash Money days to his reign as one of hip-hop’s greatest lyricists, one thing remains clear—Lil Wayne isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. If anything, he’s just getting started.