Early Lil Wayne tattoos and their meanings start in New Orleans — small traditional flash and label-era script Wayne collected as a teenager before Tha Carter made him a global rap star.

Tha Carter era touring brought half-sleeves and neck work to Lil Wayne tattoos and their meanings — including pieces honoring mentors as his profile grew with Cash Money and Young Money.

Visible neck and face tattoos marked a bold chapter in Lil Wayne tattoos and their meanings — Wayne's choice influenced a generation of rappers documented by Complex and tattoo press.

Large back work with wings and script joined Lil Wayne tattoos and their meanings during his mainstream peak — photographed constantly at festivals when shirts came off onstage.

Concert-era face tattoos including teardrops and forehead crosses define Lil Wayne tattoos and their meanings for modern fans — the look that made him hip-hop's most ink-visible superstar.