Lil Wayne’s handwritten lyric notebook from 1999 is now up for auction, and it comes with a staggering price tag of $5 million. This unique piece of hip-hop history has garnered significant attention, especially among fans and collectors eager to own a piece of the rapper’s legacy.
The auction, managed by Moments in Time, follows a lengthy legal battle over the ownership of the notebook. Initially, the notebook was listed for a mere $250,000 back in 2019. However, the price has skyrocketed due to the rarity and cultural significance of the artifact. Moments in Time has emphasized that Lil Wayne is regarded as one of the greatest rappers of all time, which adds immense value to his handwritten notes.
The notebook contains lyrics from notable tracks associated with the Hot Boys, including “We On Fire” and “I Feel.” These songs were part of the group’s sophomore album, “Guerrilla Warfare,” released in July 1999. The album debuted at No. 5 on the Billboard 200 chart, with “We On Fire” serving as the lead single, also reaching No. 5 on the Hot Rap Songs chart.
The journey of the notebook to the auction block has been anything but straightforward. In 2019, a man discovered the notebook in a car that was previously owned by Cash Money Records. This discovery led to a legal dispute when Lil Wayne claimed ownership of the notebook, asserting that it was his personal property. His legal team sent a cease and desist letter to Moments in Time, demanding the return of the notebook.
The man who found the notebook argued that he was the rightful owner, citing the “finders-keepers” principle. He sought a court ruling to confirm his ownership, and after years of legal back-and-forth, the court ultimately sided with him. In February 2024, a judge ruled that the anonymous individual in possession of the notebook was indeed the rightful owner, allowing the auction to proceed.
The notebook’s condition has been a topic of discussion as well. Some pages suffered water damage due to flooding from Hurricane Katrina in 2005, when the man who found it had to leave his property. Despite this, the notebook remains a significant artifact for fans of Lil Wayne and hip-hop history.
Moments in Time has defended the high price of the notebook, stating that the value reflects Lil Wayne’s status in the music industry. The auction house has described the notebook as “the only handwritten lyrics of Lil Wayne ever for sale,” making it a rare opportunity for collectors.
As the auction progresses, fans and collectors alike are keeping a close eye on the bidding. The chance to own a piece of Lil Wayne’s creative process is undoubtedly enticing, and the high price tag reflects the cultural impact the rapper has had on the music scene.
For those interested in participating in the auction, Moments in Time has made the notebook available for viewing and bidding on their website. The auction represents not just a chance to own a unique item but also a piece of hip-hop history that has shaped the genre.
In conclusion, Lil Wayne’s lyric notebook is more than just a collection of handwritten notes; it is a testament to the rapper’s influence and artistry. The ongoing auction serves as a reminder of the lasting impact of his work and the value placed on authentic artifacts in the world of music.
Source: TMZ, Moments in Time, XXL
