Lil' Wayne, born Dwayne Michael Carter Jr. on September 27, 1982, is an American rapper, singer, and songwriter. He gained fame in the late 1990s as a member of the hip-hop group Hot Boys and later established a successful solo career. His unique style and clever wordplay have made him one of the most influential figures in the music industry. Throughout his career, Lil' Wayne has released several critically acclaimed albums, including Tha Carter III, which won a Grammy Award for Best Rap Album. He is known for his prolific output and collaborations with various artists, contributing to the popularity of Southern hip-hop and shaping the genre's evolution.