Lil Wayne — Tha Carter II 2LP

Released in 2005, Tha Carter II is the album that firmly established Lil Wayne as one of hip-hop’s elite lyricists. Expanding on the foundation of the original Tha Carter, Wayne delivers sharper lyricism, unforgettable hooks, and Southern production that would define an era while setting the stage for his legendary mixtape run.

Featuring standout tracks like “Fireman,” “Hustler Musik,” “Shooter” (featuring Robin Thicke), “Best Rapper Alive,” and “Money on My Mind,” Tha Carter II is widely regarded as one of the greatest Southern rap albums ever released.