Lil Wayne Returns with 'Tha Carter VI', A Star-Studded Album and Nationwide Tour

6 June 2025

Lil Wayne / Ramona Rosales

After a seven-year hiatus since his last installment in the iconic 'Tha Carter' series, Lil Wayne has made a triumphant return with the release of Tha Carter VI on June 6, 2025. This marks the sixth chapter in the rapper's critically acclaimed series, following Tha Carter V in 2018. The album's release coincides with the kickoff of his extensive 34-city North American tour, celebrating over two decades of his influential career.

Tha Carter VI showcases Lil Wayne's versatility and willingness to push musical boundaries. The album features an eclectic mix of collaborators, including Bono, Miley Cyrus, Billie Eilish, Andrea Bocelli, and Wyclef Jean. Notably, Bocelli's involvement was inspired by Wayne's personal history, including a childhood incident where he accidentally shot himself. This diverse lineup underscores Wayne's commitment to blending genres and creating a unique soundscape

One standout track, "The Days," featuring Bono, has already garnered attention as it was featured in ESPN's promotional campaign for the 2025 NBA Finals. The song's inclusion highlights the synergy between music and sports, enhancing the emotional intensity surrounding the NBA Finals. Wayne expressed his excitement about the collaboration, stating, "Basketball's been in my blood since day one, so to team up with ESPN less than 24 hours before the drop of Tha Carter VI for the NBA Finals is an incredible honor."

The release of Tha Carter VI was celebrated with a special concert at New York City's Madison Square Garden on June 6, marking Lil Wayne's first solo headline performance at the iconic venue. This event set the tone for the "Tha Carter VI Tour," which officially begins on July 30 in Bristow, Virginia, and concludes on October 2 in West Palm Beach, Florida. The tour spans major cities across the United States and Canada, including Toronto, Los Angeles, Atlanta, and Dallas.

Supporting acts for the tour include Tyga, NoCap, Belly Gang Kushington, and the Hot Boys on select dates. This lineup not only celebrates Wayne's past collaborations but also introduces fans to emerging talents, reflecting his influence on the next generation of artists.

Lil Wayne's impact on the music industry is undeniable. With over 100 million records sold globally, including 25 million albums and 90 million digital tracks, he stands as one of the best-selling artists of all time. His 2022 hit single "Lollipop," featuring Static Major, earned him his first Diamond certification. Additionally, Wayne holds the record for the most Billboard Hot 100 entries by a male artist, surpassing Elvis Presley with a total of 183 entries.

Tha Carter VI not only reinforces Wayne's status as a hip-hop icon but also showcases his ability to evolve and adapt to the ever-changing music landscape. By collaborating with artists from various genres and backgrounds, he continues to push the boundaries of hip-hop and redefine what it means to be a rapper in today's music industry.

To complement the album and tour, Lil Wayne has released a range of merchandise, including signed LPs, exclusive color variants, T-shirts, and box sets. Fans can purchase these items through his official online store, allowing them to commemorate this milestone in his career

Furthermore, Wayne's engagement with fans extends beyond music and merchandise. His collaboration with ESPN for the NBA Finals exemplifies his commitment to connecting with audiences through various platforms, blending his passion for sports and music.

Lil Wayne's return with Tha Carter VI and the accompanying tour signifies a celebration of his enduring legacy and a testament to his continued relevance in the music industry. By embracing diverse collaborations and innovative promotional strategies, he not only honors his past achievements but also sets the stage for future endeavors. As fans across North America prepare to experience his dynamic performances, Tha Carter VI stands as a powerful reminder of Lil Wayne's unparalleled influence and artistry.