VH1’s television show Behind the Music is back. The first episode of the new season documented the self proclaimed “Best Rapper Alive,” or more commonly, Lil’ Wayne. Duane Michael Carter Jr. (Lil’ Wayne) met Bryan Williams, a.k.a. Birdman, at age 11 and joined Cash Money Records, Birdman’s label, shortly thereafter. In 2002, he started his solo career.

Convinced writing lyrics constrained his creativity; he decided to record one session with all of his written material, resulting in one 35 minute song….the rest, is history. Lil’ Wayne has changed the “rap game” with his freestyle approach. He now uses no pens and no paper, only “the beat of the music and the thoughts it inspires.”

Hearing his story made me realize not only how creative he is, but where his creativity comes from. I enjoyed learning how he got to where he is today. He has a passion for music stronger than many people have a passion for anything. Maybe the term “Best Rapper Alive” is deserved…thoughts?