The relationship between Lil Wayne and Birdman starts around 1991 when the young rapper was only eight years old, and Bryan Williams aka Birdman was a rapper and Co-Owner of Cash Money Records. Wayne would become half of the duo B.G.’z and then a member of the Hot Boyz. But with a connection that has spanned two decades, the last three years haven’t been so close. For the last several years Wayne’s 12th studio album ‘Tha Carter V’ has been delayed due to various contract disputes and payment issues with Cash Money Records. As the legal battle approached its fourth year, many thought the album wouldn’t see the light of day. The impending peril turned to joy with the announcement of Lil Wayne’s freedom from Cash Money Records, on the heels of the 10th anniversary of Tha Carter III.

Lil Wayne’s Attorney Ron Sweeney’s Statement

Per our settlement agreement, the matter has been amicably resolved to the satisfaction of all parties. In terms of the particulars we are prohibited legally from saying anything further. I can say that my client is happy. He is his own man, a man that owns his assets, his music and himself. At some point, Wayne will let his fans know what’s going to happen next.

This is the first time Lil Wayne isn’t signed to Cash Money Records since he was nine years old. Reportedly, Cash Money distributor Universal Records paid out a multi-million dollar settlement for the future of Drake, Nicki Minaj and his albums (including Tha Carter V). Now with a new agreement in place, his imprint Young Money Records, will directly partner with Universal.