Songfacts®:

• Derek "Uncle Dee" Lane, Rod Wave's uncle, co-founded Hit House Entertainment, the label that gave Rod Wave his start. He also guided, managed, and provided stability during some of the most turbulent times in the artist's life, especially when Rod's father was incarcerated. Sadly, Rod Wave confirmed Uncle Dee's passing on July 3, 2024.
  
  "Last Lap" is Rod Wave's tribute to his uncle, a heartfelt exploration of grief, loss, and the Herculean effort it takes to keep going without someone who meant the world to you.
• The song opens with a gospel-infused sample of Maverick City Music's "Keep Praying," performed by the Mav City Gospel Choir, Ryan Ofei, and DOE. This gentle, reverent start soon gives way to a thumping hip-hop beat courtesy of Houston-based producer Trillo Beatz. It's a shift that mirrors Rod Wave's emotional journey - beginning with prayer and reflection, then transitioning into the gritty reality of life's ongoing struggles.
• Trillo Beatz is no stranger to crafting soundscapes for Wave. He's also behind other notable tracks like "Dark Clouds," "Brace Face," "Bottom Boy," and "Thief In The Night."
• "Last Lap" is the title track of Rod Wave's sixth album, setting the tone for a record steeped in themes of personal growth, relationships, and overcoming adversity.
• Last Lap debuted at #2 on the US Billboard 200, marking Rod Wave's seventh consecutive Top 10 album. He became the first male artist to chart in the Top 10 every year from 2019 to 2024. And to top it all, 17 of the album's 23 tracks charted on the Billboard Hot 100.