We’ve waited four years for Tha Carter V and it does not disappoint. Despite the legal issues with his record label, his health scares and personal drama, Lil Wayne’s final solo release is more than anyone expected and reminds everyone why we were so hungry for this drop.
No one raps like Lil Wayne. His songs are at least 2,000 words deep and he doesn’t write his lyrics down. He freestyles his verses in the studio and doesn’t cheat by making up words or repeating himself or using gimmicks (Hi Mase, Migos, Eminem).
“Open Letter” is the most brutally honest song on the album, which is saying a lot considering he recounts his suicide attempt asa child on “Let it Out,” and what it’s like to be scammed by a woman in “Mona Lisa.” The difference is Open Letter is blatantly introspective, not set up like a story or littered with false bravado. It’s a naked look into his genius mind which is plagued with self-doubt, thoughts of suicide, regret and contradictions.
I’m a angry lion hangin’ by a string
I can’t describe it
Feel like a anchor tied to my finger
Got me sinkin’ to the bottom of my drink
Maybe because he has four kids now, or because this is his final solo release or because he’s just growing up Lil Wayne is considering his purpose without ego.
The object in the mirror is more near than it appears, oh shit
And sometimes I fear who in the mirror, that n**ga weird
He done died so many times but still here
Why am I here?
Whatever the reasons, it’s so powerful to hear someone in his position be so vulnerable. In fact, as he discovers through the song, it’s through sharing his vulnerability that he comes to understand his place in the world.
Never come in second, make the most of your seconds
They so precious
‘Cause if we could buy time every store would sell it
If you want me to read your mind, need correct spelling
I keep it real, n**gas better keep it copasetic
My Musical Memoir 