Lil Wayne Is Rap’s GOAT: Hamlin Says

In a bold proclamation that merged the worlds of NASCAR and hip-hop, Denny Hamlin declared, “Lil Wayne reigns supreme.” The NASCAR driver’s assertion dismissed the claims of Jay-Z and Kendrick Lamar as the dominant forces in rap, sparking a wave of debate. The statement came during a 2018 interview with Jeff Gluck, where Hamlin unflinchingly named Lil Wayne as his pick for the title of “best rapper alive.”

Why Not Jay-Z or Kendrick Lamar?

While Hamlin acknowledged Jay-Z’s immense popularity and historic impact on the genre, he dismissed the Brooklyn legend’s raw talent as being inferior to Lil Wayne’s. This controversial opinion left many, including Gluck, questioning Hamlin’s judgment.

When the absence of Kendrick Lamar among the top choices was noted, Hamlin offered an explanation, suggesting that Lamar’s abilities were often overestimated. His comments reflected a broader sentiment: Lil Wayne’s lyricism and artistry continue to set him apart in the ever-competitive world of rap.

Hamlin further commented on the decline in lyrical prowess, referencing Nas’s famous declaration years ago that “rap is dead.” This critique of the current state of hip-hop highlighted Hamlin’s nostalgia for Lil Wayne’s earlier, unreleased works—masterpieces held hostage by prolonged legal battles with his record label. Thankfully, those battles were resolved in 2018, leading to the release of a new Lil Wayne album for Hamlin and fans alike to enjoy.

Hamlin’s Crossover Into Hip-Hop Culture

A defining moment in Hamlin’s relationship with music came in 2021, when he and fellow NASCAR driver Bubba Wallace appeared in Post Malone’s music video, Motley Crew. Directed by Cole Bennett at the Auto Club Speedway, the video portrayed Malone’s victory over NASCAR rivals, complete with a celebratory crew scene.

Hamlin described the experience as “fantastic,” expressing his admiration for Post Malone and the opportunity to represent NASCAR and 23XI Racing in a new cultural context. The crossover was met with enthusiasm from both racing and music fans, illustrating the growing intersection between these two worlds.

The Importance of Hip-Hop for NASCAR

Collaborations like Hamlin’s with Post Malone hold significant value for NASCAR, particularly as the organization seeks to engage younger audiences. These partnerships help bridge generational gaps, bringing high-octane racing and hip-hop culture closer together.

Yet, one lingering question remains unanswered: Has Post Malone replaced Lil Wayne as Hamlin’s favorite artist? While Hamlin has expressed admiration for Malone, his steadfast loyalty to Lil Wayne suggests that the Young Money legend still holds the crown.

A Fusion of Two Worlds

As the lines between NASCAR and hip-hop continue to blur, the potential for further exciting collaborations looms large. From music videos to cultural endorsements, the dynamic interplay between these two industries is an evolving narrative.

Denny Hamlin’s passionate opinions about Lil Wayne’s artistry offer a compelling glimpse into this fusion, proving that even the high-speed world of NASCAR isn’t immune to the influence of rhythmic rhymes and lyrical legends. Whether through his declarations or appearances in music videos, Hamlin has become a surprising ambassador for this unique cultural blend—one where racing meets rap, and engines roar alongside beats.