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Most people probably remember how they spent their first paycheck. For the majority of us, that check came from a job like working behind the counter of a fast food restaurant. But for one celebrity, his first check was bigger than most.

At only 14 years old, Lil Wayne presented his mom with his first earnings, and she helped him decide how to spend the money. He blew his first check on a purchase that seemed extravagant at the time, but it’s a far cry from what he can spend today. 

Lil Wayne’s first paycheck came early

Rapper Lil' Wayne poses in his home in 2003
Lil Wayne in 2003 | Gregory Bojorquez/Getty Images

Lil Wayne was only 14 years old and an honor student when he decided to drop out of school to pursue a career in music. The gamble paid off, and he was soon on his way to phenomenal success as a rapper. Soon, he was a member of the group Hot Boys.

Lil Wayne was still too young to work most jobs, but his skill as a rap artist soon earned him his first paycheck. According to BuzzFeed, that check seemed astronomical to the young musician. It was his first glimpse of how successful he could be. “So, you know, that was the moment I knew I could do a little something,” he explained.

He didn’t have an easy childhood, and this check seemed like the beginning of a better life. He was so excited about the new income that he tried to give the money to his mom, but she wouldn’t take it. “She said, ‘I don’t want it. Whatever you want to do with it, let’s go.'”

Lil Wayne knew exactly how he wanted to spend his new check. “So I went straight to Nissan and bought a Pathfinder.”

How much did Lil Wayne make?

A single check that was enough for a 14-year-old rising star to buy a car must’ve been an impressive amount. Apparently, in 1996, all he needed was his first check, which came out to $6,500. He wasn’t technically old enough to drive his new car, but he was able to earn enough to buy it. 

These days, Lil Wayne’s tastes are a bit more expensive. He recently spent $2.7 million on a car — a major step up from his Pathfinder. The new car is a Bugatti Veyron, a vehicle that seems to be popular among wealthy car lovers. Two important people in his life, Birdman and Cash Money, have also purchased the same car. 

Lil Wayne drove the price of his car up with customizations, such as a matte black paint job. Although the price may seem extravagant, he has the funds to splurge on almost anything he wants.

What is Lil Wayne’s net worth today?

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Lil Wayne’s net worth reflects his long history of success in the music industry. At this point, he’s reported to be worth $170 million

The 40-year-old enjoys his wealth, owning a home in Miami Beach that’s worth approximately $17 million. He’s added a second car to his garage, a Rolls Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe worth $443,000. He even owns a diamond-encrusted pair of Beats by Dre reportedly worth $1 million. 

When Lil Wayne got his first paycheck, it was more exciting than most teens’ experiences. But with the encouragement of his mom, he was able to experience what it felt like to splurge on something that seems extreme. Over the years, his definition of a luxurious purchase has grown along with his wealth and success. But he’ll probably always remember that special Pathfinder.