The tension between Lil Wayne and Kendrick Lamar over the upcoming Super Bowl halftime show hit a boiling point on Friday after Kendrick released his surprise album, GNX. On the project’s opening track, “wacced out murals,”Kendrick addressed the heated debate over his selection to headline the show in New Orleans, a move many believed should have gone to Wayne, the city’s most iconic artist.
In the track, Kendrick raps:
*“Used to bump Tha Carter 3, I held my Rollie chain proud… Irony, I think my hard work let Lil Wayne down.”
The lyrics reignited online chatter about Wayne’s exclusion, which had already sparked backlash against the NFL and show co-producer Jay-Z when the announcement was first made in September. While fans speculated how Wayne might feel about being named in the song, the rap legend took to Twitter to break his silence.
Wayne tweeted early Saturday morning:
“Man wtf I do?! I just be chillin & dey still kome 4 my head. Let’s not take kindness for weakness. Let this giant sleep. I beg u all. No one really wants destruction, not even me, but I shall destroy if disturbed. On me. Love.”
Man wtf I do?!
I just be chillin & dey still kome 4 my head. Let’s not take kindness for weakness. Let this giant sleep. I beg u all. No one really wants destruction,not even me but I shall destroy if disturbed. On me. Love— Lil Wayne WEEZY F (@LilTunechi) November 23, 2024
The tweet seemed to dismiss the drama while issuing a clear warning to critics. Wayne’s response resonated with fans, who rallied behind him, applauding his ability to address the situation with class while defending his legacy.
The controversy dates back to September when the NFL announced that Kendrick Lamar would headline the Super Bowl halftime show in New Orleans. Fans immediately flooded social media, arguing that Wayne, a New Orleans legend, was the obvious choice for the slot. Critics called out Jay-Z, whose Roc Nation oversees the show, for allegedly overlooking Wayne in favor of Kendrick.
Adding to the discourse, prominent figures like Nicki Minaj, Birdman, and Drake voiced their support for Wayne. New Orleans icons such as Master P and Juvenile echoed the sentiment, saying Wayne deserved the stage as a tribute to his contributions to the city’s culture. Even Boosie Badazz, a fellow Louisiana native, criticized the NFL for failing to spotlight local talent.
On the other hand, Kendrick’s defenders highlighted his national and global appeal, noting that his work also reflects themes of social justice and cultural pride.
Before Kendrick’s album dropped, Wayne had already addressed the hurt he felt about the decision in a heartfelt Instagram video on September 13. Fighting back tears, Wayne thanked fans for their support and opened up about the emotional toll the decision had taken on him.
“That hurt. It hurt a lot… I blame myself for not being mentally prepared for a letdown,” he admitted. “I thought there was nothing better than that spot and that stage in my city, so it hurt.”
Kendrick didn’t stop at acknowledging Wayne on “wacced out murals.” He also revealed his disappointment over the lack of congratulations from his peers, rapping:
“Got the Super Bowl and Nas the only one congratulate me, all these n*** agitated I’m just glad it’s on their faces.”*
The lyrics seem to address the backlash he’s faced since the announcement, with Kendrick maintaining confidence in his accomplishments.
As Kendrick’s GNX continues to make waves and the Super Bowl halftime show approaches, fans are divided on the controversy. While Wayne appears ready to move on, his warning suggests he won’t tolerate further disrespect.
Discover more from Baller Alert
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.