In the realm of hip-hop, accolades and recognition from peers are treasured and revered. After earning a well-deserved spot in the top 10 of both Billboard and Vibe’s Greatest Rappers of All Time lists, Lil Wayne, a true icon in the rap world, has taken the opportunity to share his personal ranking of the greatest emcees.

In a recent Billboard cover story, published on Wednesday (Aug. 2) to commemorate hip-hop’s 50th anniversary, Weezy unveiled the top five rappers from his own G.O.A.T. (Greatest of All Time) list. The list, as he clarified, is in “no specific order,” and represents artists who have significantly influenced and shaped his musical journey.

So, who are the legends who made it onto Lil Wayne’s G.O.A.T. list? The esteemed names include

• Missy Elliott
• Jay-Z
• UGK
• Goodie Mob
• The Notorious B.I.G.

For Lil Wayne, these iconic figures are not just great rappers; they hold a special place in his heart as he organically grew up listening to their timeless music.

When asked about his choices, Lil Wayne shared how these artists have been an integral part of his musical upbringing. Each rapper on his list has left an indelible impact on his life and artistry. For Weezy, music is deeply personal, and the decisions he makes regarding his favorites are heartfelt and authentic.

Lil Wayne himself secured the No. 7 spot on Billboard’s esteemed list, praised for his mastery of lyrics and ability to deliver mind-boggling verses over the past 25 years. Beyond his own accomplishments, Lil Wayne’s influence extends to the success of rap luminaries Drake and Nicki Minaj, both of whom he nurtured under his Young Money/Cash Money record label.

Humility and gratitude shone through as Lil Wayne acknowledged his placement on the list, stating, “That’s awesome. You would be happy to be anywhere on that list.” His genuine appreciation for the acknowledgment further solidifies his status as a respected figure in the rap community.

In the Billboard cover story, each rapper or rap group from Lil Wayne’s G.O.A.T. list was given special attention, with insights into his relationships and admiration for their contributions to the culture.

Missy Elliott, a groundbreaking artist known for her innovation and unmatched creativity, holds a cherished place on Weezy’s list. Jay-Z, the embodiment of rap excellence and entrepreneurial success, also finds himself among Wayne’s top picks. UGK, a duo that skillfully blended Southern charm and street narratives, earns rightful recognition, alongside Goodie Mob, who brought a distinctly Southern voice to the hip-hop landscape. Lastly, The Notorious B.I.G., an undeniable rap legend whose impact continues to reverberate through generations, claims a spot on Lil Wayne’s list.

As Lil Wayne’s own journey in hip-hop continues to inspire and resonate with fans worldwide, his acknowledgment of these influential figures adds depth to his appreciation for the art form. With this gesture, Lil Wayne cements his status as not only a remarkable rapper himself but also a humble student of hip-hop history.

As fans of the genre, we can only celebrate the rich tapestry of talents that have paved the way for the hip-hop culture we cherish today. Lil Wayne’s G.O.A.T. list pays tribute to the legends and showcases the profound impact they have had on his life and the wider hip-hop community. The torch is passed, and the legacy lives on.