Lil Wayne and Nicki Minaj: A Decade of Chart-Topping Magic

For over a decade, the dynamic duo of Lil Wayne and Nicki Minaj has continually set the music industry ablaze, not only with their individual hits but also through their electrifying collaborations. Their partnership, which began when Wayne signed Minaj to Young Money in 2009, has only grown stronger with time, leaving an indelible mark on the music landscape. As they celebrate each other’s successes, their extraordinary chemistry continues to dazzle fans.

From multi-platinum solo tracks to unforgettable label compilations and iconic features, the music world has been graced with their unparalleled talent. Today, we embark on a journey through their seven most remarkable collaborations, each ranking based on chart-topping positions and gold and platinum certifications.

1. “Truffle Butter” (2014)

On “Truffle Butter,” a bonus track from Nicki Minaj’s “The Pinkprint,” the Young Money holy trinity unites – Lil Wayne, Nicki Minaj, and Drake. With a luxurious beat from Nineteen85, they each flex their lyrical prowess, beginning their verses with a captivating “thinking out loud.” While Drake maintains his cool, Nicki showcases her impressive résumé, and Wayne delivers his signature humor. Out of their extensive collaborations, “Truffle Butter” shines as the ultimate demonstration of their lyrical skills, reaching No. 14 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning gold certification in the UK.

2. “Tapout” (2013)

As the lead single from Cash Money’s Rich Gang album, “Tapout” united Lil Wayne, Nicki Minaj, Future, and Mack Maine under Birdman’s direction. The song possessed all the elements of a hit record, including a hook by Future and standout verses from Wayne and Nicki. Although Wayne’s relationship with Birdman would later sour, “Tapout” and the Rich Gang era remain an all-star collaboration, celebrated with a gold certification.

3. “Take It To The Head” (2012)

“Take It To the Head” arrived during a time when any DJ Khaled song featuring Young Money members was a guaranteed chart-topper. Lil Wayne and Nicki Minaj, alongside Rick Ross and Chris Brown, delivered another banger. Chris’ unforgettable chorus and Ross’ slick verse set the stage for Wayne and Nicki to shine with their stellar contributions. Minaj’s commanding presence blends perfectly with Wayne’s signature humor. This golden single peaked at No. 6 on both the Hot Rap Songs and Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs charts.

4. “Knockout” (2010)

“Knockout” stands as one of Wayne and Nicki’s earliest collaborations, featured on Lil Wayne’s rock-inspired album, “Rebirth.” In this track, Wayne serenades Nicki with an auto-tune-soaked melody over a pop-punk backdrop, and Nicki sings the chorus while also delivering a verse, channeling the pop-rock stars of the 2000s. “Knockout” marked Nicki Minaj’s debut on the Billboard Hot 100 at No. 44 and earned platinum certification in 2020.

5. “High School” (2012)

“High School” ranks as Lil Wayne and Nicki Minaj’s most beloved collaboration featuring just the two of them. With cinematic production by Boi-1da and T-Minus, Nicki weaves a narrative that began with her song “Hood Story” and delivers a catchy chorus. Wayne adds his signature amusing punchlines in his verse. Although “High School” reached only No. 64 on the Billboard Hot 100, it gained immense popularity in the UK, Ireland, and Australia, achieving 2x platinum certification in 2022.

6. “Only” (2014)

Alongside “Truffle Butter,” Nicki Minaj enlisted Lil Wayne and Drake for “Only” on “The Pinkprint.” This hit single features a simplistic yet ominous beat, with Nicki dispelling rumors of involvement with Wayne or Drake. The two playfully flirt with Nicki as Chris Brown contributes a catchy chorus, elevating the single to 3x platinum status and peaking at No. 12 on the Billboard Hot 100.

7. “BedRock” (2009)

No discussion of Lil Wayne and Nicki Minaj’s most significant collaborations would be complete without acknowledging “BedRock.” As Young Money’s most prominent single, it showcased not only Wayne and Nicki but also other members of the collective, including Drake, Tyga, Jae Millz, and more. This song introduced the world to the label’s rising stars and became a massive hit. While not an exclusive Lil Wayne or Nicki Minaj track, “BedRock” stands as their most monumental collaboration, achieving 7x platinum status in the U.S. and platinum status in the UK. It peaked at No. 2 on the Hot 100 and provided a glimpse of the incredible musical partnership between Lil Wayne and Nicki Minaj.