Lil Wayne, the legendary rapper hailing from New Orleans, was honored with the Black Music Collective’s Global Impact Award at the Recording Academy Honors on Thursday, February 2. In a poignant speech, Lil Wayne expressed gratitude to God, the Recording Academy, and other music industry professionals for the prestigious accolade. However, amidst the celebrations, Lil Wayne opened up about his childhood and the profound impact his mother, Jacida Carter, had on his life.

Receiving the Global Impact Award was a momentous occasion for Lil Wayne, who reflected on how such recognition was unexpected given his upbringing. He tearfully recounted moments from his youth, revealing the loneliness his mother experienced while he was away on tour as a young adolescent. Fondly referring to his mother as “Cita,” Lil Wayne shared a heart-wrenching memory of his mother asking him for a grandchild at the tender age of 14, following the tragic loss of his father.

The rapper’s emotional recollection of the event underscored the challenges he faced growing up and the deep bond he shared with his mother. Lil Wayne’s acknowledgment of his mother’s loneliness and her plea for companionship highlighted the sacrifices she made for him and the profound impact of parental love and support on his journey to success.

Amidst the tears and heartfelt reflections, Lil Wayne also expressed gratitude to those who had supported him throughout his career, including Cash Money Records and Young Money boss Mack Maine. He credited Cash Money Records, his hometown label, for providing him with opportunities that paved the way for his success in the music industry.

The Recording Academy’s decision to honor Lil Wayne, along with Missy Elliot and Dr. Dre, with the Global Impact award recognized their significant contributions to hip-hop culture. Additionally, the award ceremony paid tribute to Sylvia Rhone, the first female CEO of Epic Records, highlighting the importance of diversity and representation in the music industry.

Overall, Lil Wayne’s speech at the Recording Academy Honors was a poignant reminder of the importance of family, perseverance, and gratitude. His candid reflections on his upbringing and the role of his mother in shaping his life served as a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of music.