In an interview with Billboard, Lil Wayne reflected on his influence on the music industry, particularly regarding the trend of rappers getting face tattoos.

As Hip-Hop celebrated its 50th anniversary, Wayne shared his thoughts on the evolution of the genre and how his own unique style has left a mark on the industry.

Wayne expressed his satisfaction with the idea of seeing others emulate his appearance, likening it to the pride of seeing a child resemble oneself. He acknowledged that his distinctive look, including his face tattoos, was not inspired by anyone else but developed organically.

However, he hopes that his impact extends beyond just his appearance, emphasizing the importance of his work ethic as a source of inspiration for new generations of artists.

“When other artists are around me, they can sense my work ethic,” Wayne explained. “It’s impossible for them not to feel it. And when they leave, they take something with them, something they remember. Hopefully, it motivates them in some way.”

In addition to discussing his influence on aesthetics, Wayne also offered advice on breaking new artists in the modern era dominated by platforms like TikTok. While acknowledging the significance of social media presence, he stressed the fundamental importance of genuine talent.

“Today, social media is crucial. If you’re not savvy with it, you need a team that is,” Wayne stated. “But above all, talent is still the key. Real, enduring, undeniable talent. That’s what breaks artists. Once you find that talent, nurture it and showcase it as much as possible. It’s a challenge, but it’s a rewarding one.”

Wayne emphasized the importance of artists believing in their own potential rather than simply imitating trends they see on social media. Encouraging authenticity and self-belief, he highlighted the joy he finds in guiding emerging talent and helping them realize their true artistic potential.