Lil Wayne
WGCI Big Jam
United Center – Chicago, IL
December 27, 2008

Lil Wayne headlined the annual WGCI Big Jam at the United Center two days after Christmas. Not even the holidays or tropical vacations could keep fans away from seeing the most successful artist of the year perform live in concert. In the past, rappers and hip-hop stars did not tour much because those musical genres did not hold up well in live performances night after night around the country. I had my doubts about Lil Wayne’s performance; however, I had never seen him in concert before. I had no idea what to expect. After witnessing T-Pain’s opening set, my mind had formulated a typical stereotype that many people hold when it comes to rappers. T-Pain did not disappoint this stereotype, as he had the requisite baggy clothes, bling-bling jewelry, limited edition Bulls’ Adidas shoes, crazy patterned hoodie, and the omnipresent sunglasses (of course worn inside at all times).

However, Lil Wayne came out wearing a white T-shirt, khaki-colored capri pants, green baseball cap, green Chuck Taylor Converse sneakers, and no bling! I was immediately taken aback by his simple, laid-back appearance. I don’t know what happened, but I was so shocked by what this superstar looked like in person that I couldn’t take my eyes off of him. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t think the guy is physically attractive by any means. His face close up is nothing I want to stare at every day. By the time the third song “Got Money” (my favorite Lil Wayne song) came around, I found myself thoroughly enjoying the show. T-Pain came out to sing (on a Segway personal transporter!) with Wayne for “Got Money.” What did you expect? Of course T-Pain is featured on this track off of Tha Carter III, Wayne’s best-selling album of the year. I have to admit, that was pretty cool to watch. If you weren’t there to see it, I feel sorry for you. You missed a great show. More photos of Lil Wayne after the jump…

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