Dwayne Michael Carter Jr, better known by his stage name Lil Wayne, is one of the prominent names in the world of hip-hop. Known for his funky music and catching lyrics, the 33-year-old rapper has got numerous awards and accolades in his bag.

Though not the first mix-tape star, Lil Wayne certainly was the first guy who legitimised the form and is arguably one of the best mix-tape rappers ever.

As he celebrates his 33rd birthday on Sunday, here is a list of five best mix-tapes in "Free Whizzy" singer's career that you can groove to anytime.

1. 'Da Drought 3' (2007)

Why it matters: This was undoubtedly one of the Wayne's most powerful works. The album included 27 tracks with two-hour conquering of every single beat that made its way to the fans across the globe. This album is from Wayne's golden years and is still as fresh as his recent works.

Best song: "King Kong". Little known fact: "King Kong" was originally Jibbs' song. Wayne modified it heavily and chucked out any mention of the original artist from it.

2. 'Dedication 2' (2006)

Why it matters: 'Dedication 2' confirmed that even though Wayne was always associated with something troublesome, he was still able to produce the healthiest music that brought a lot of money to the rap industry.

Best song: "Georgia... Bush". The song was a nostalgic tribute to Wayne's hometown of New Orleans post-Katrina. Arguably, it still stands as a better Bush era anthem than anything Eminem or the Dixie Chicks ever wrote.

3. 'The Drought is Over 2 (The Carter III Sessions)' (2007)

Why it matters: More than an actual mix-tape, this was more of a leak. 'The Drought is Over 2' was released unofficially by an enterprising DJ named 'The Empire', who managed to sneak a handful of tracks from the indefinitely delayed 'The Carter III'. Though it was not an original work, this tape still captures Wayne at one of his most creative moments.

Best song: "I Feel Like Dying" is the most real meditation on addiction and depression you will probably ever hear from Lil Wayne.

4. 'No Ceilings' (2009)

Why it matters: 'No Ceilings' is one of the forgotten works in Lil Wayne's mix-tape career. It was released amidst 'Rebirth' and 'I Am Not a Human Being'. 'No Ceilings' still stands high in comparison with any of his mid-decade classics.

Best song: "Death Of Autotune" is undoubtedly among the crankiest, most out-of-touch songs ever written by Wayne.

5. 'Sorry 4 The Wait 2' (2015)

Why it matters: The narrative of the album narrates Wayne's downfall after 'The Carter III' and how he was burnt creatively and emotionally after a long prison sentence. However, the album has been his best comeback and 'Sorry 4 The Wait 2' is ruling the industry.

Best song: "Coco", an apology to his fans and a promise that he will keep coming out with incredible songs without ever disappointing them.