When talking about the biggest names in hip-hop, few are as celebrated as Lil Wayne. With a career that has lasted for decades, his legacy is already impressive, leading many to debate how great he truly is. The latest episode of The Joe Budden Podcast tackled this topic, discussing whether Lil Wayne could ever return to the peak of his career or if those days are behind him for good. The discussion began by looking at other legendary artists, like Jay-Z, and how they’ve stayed relevant over the years.

Joe Budden and his guests talked about how Jay-Z used his music, especially his album 4:44, to share reflections from his life, keeping his work meaningful and current. But when it came to Lil Wayne, Budden didn’t hold back. He confidently asserted, “Yes, Wayne has peaked.” Budden argued that Wayne’s best days, when he was not only a top rapper but also deeply connected to the culture and his fans, had already passed. He believed that even if Lil Wayne improved his rapping in the future, the magic of his prime had already happened. This is a strong opinion, but it’s not without reason. Songs from the albums Tha Carter II and Tha Carter III, along with his incredible mixtapes, showed Wayne at his best during the late 2000s.

He was a powerhouse, delivering memorable performances and shaping hip-hop in a way that influenced many upcoming artists. The big question now is whether he can reach those heights again. Not everyone on the podcast agreed with Budden. Some panel members felt that while Wayne’s peak might be over, his talent and passion for music remain intact. No matter what people think, there’s no denying that Lil Wayne’s impact on hip-hop is already legendary. Whether he finds his way back to his former success or not, his influence will continue to be felt for many years to come.

In a time when loyalty can shift quickly, Kanye West is making it clear that he’s sticking by his friend Diddy, no matter what happens. Throughout the years, Kanye has taken on many different roles in the music world, but in 2025, he supports Diddy, who is facing many public challenges. Despite the controversies surrounding him, Kanye has become one of the few prominent figures in hip-hop to speak up for Diddy, most recently in a heartfelt phone call that was shared publicly. On a recent Monday evening, Kanye released a video showcasing an emotional conversation between him and Diddy, revealing their strong friendship and mutual respect.

During the call, Diddy thanked Kanye for standing by him, saying, “When I see you face to face, I’m going to be able to hug and thank you and show you how much you’re appreciated.” His words reflected the gratitude of someone who has experienced dwindling support but still values those who defend him. Kanye has expressed his admiration for Diddy before, even calling him his “idol” in a post that he later deleted. In their conversation, both men praised each other, with Diddy recalling how he has always tried to stand up for others. “I always spoke up for others when I could,” he said. “And I appreciate that you’re doing the same for me.”

While some might think Kanye is trying to change the public’s perception of Diddy, it seems more about recognizing a true friend, especially in an industry where support can fade fast. Even as many in the hip-hop community choose to back away from Diddy due to his personal and legal issues, Kanye’s loyalty emphasizes the depth of their friendship. Whether seen as a courageous or risky decision, Kanye’s public support for Diddy adds another layer to his ongoing story. Regardless of what people think of him, Kanye West is not afraid to speak up for those he believes in, and for Diddy, that support is significant right now.