Harlem rapper Max B, born Charly Wingate, has been released from prison after serving 16 years. His release on November 9, 2025, coincided with the birthday of his longtime friend and collaborator, French Montana. The two shared an emotional reunion, with French Montana posting on Instagram:
"CANT MAKE THIS UP! MY BROTHER REALLY CAME HOME ON MY B DAY! HAMDULILLAH 🤲🏼 WALKED IT DOWN! NO MORE FREE YOU 🌊🌊🌊" (tmz.com)
Max B's incarceration began in 2009 following a 75-year sentence for his alleged involvement in a botched New Jersey robbery that resulted in a fatality. In 2016, his conviction was overturned, and he accepted a plea deal for aggravated manslaughter, reducing his sentence to 20 years. His release has been highly anticipated within the hip-hop community, given his influential role in the mid-2000s New York rap scene. Known for popularizing the term "wavy," Max B's unique style has left a lasting impact on artists such as A$AP Mob and Wiz Khalifa. (tmz.com)
Fans and peers have expressed their excitement over his return. Social media has been abuzz with messages like "THE WAVY ONE IS BAAAACKKKKKK. WELCOME HOME MAX B." In a statement about his release, Max B said, "I’m working. I can’t wait to get re-acclimated. You already know I’m a musical genius myself, so n----s gotta get re-acclimated with my shit. It’s a challenge. I love a good challenge. I’m the trendsetter." (indiatoday.in)
Prior to his release, Max B had hinted at his return during a call-in appearance on The Joe Budden Podcast, stating, "I’m feeling righteous, man. I’m doing all right. This is almost over. Wavy Baby coming home real soon." (hiphopdx.com) His return is expected to rejuvenate his music career, with plans to commence touring in 2026.