[3] Tha Carter was originally slated to launch in late 2003, but due to a change in musical direction, features and legal issues, it was revised into the mixtape Da Drought.

Wayne eschewed writing and developing his rhymes with intention, and instead focused on feeling, entering a stream-of-consciousness state where he freestyled much of lyrics on the spot.

[3] Steve Jones of USA Today was positive, commenting: "Wayne takes you on a tour through his life as a well-heeled young hustler.

"[11] Andy Kellman from AllMusic criticized the LP's runtime and lack of quality control, but also praised the beatmaking: "Mannie Fresh's stout production is in effect as ever, and to the MC's credit, the rhymes are less measured and are all the better for it.

"[10] Tom Briehan of Stereogum, in a twentieth anniversary appraisal of the record, considered it charming but conceded that "There’s no sense of construction or motivation [...] Tha Carter feels a little quaint now.