For this fall, a star has risen. Aubrey Graham, 23, better known as the lyrically inclined rapper Drake, has made his signature stamp of approval on some of the biggest hits of today. Effortlessly talented, with a confidence that could be construted as cockiness, is well-deserved knowing the he has accomplished so much, so soon.
Born on October 24, 1986, Drake orginally became known for playing Jimmy Brokes on the hit high school television series Degrassi: The Next Generation.
Through showcasing his talent as a serious actor while being confinded to a wheel-chair, it was apparent that he had a quest for more. As an entertainer, Drake has managed to captivate his listeners with intense, tongue-twisting lyrics and a natural ability to tell a story in mere minutes. His music could very well be described as chapters in his life that music lovers keep turning the pages to. With collaborations featuring the top hitmakers, such as Kanye West, Lil Wayne, and Trey Songz, Drake is not far behind to becoming one of the best of all time.
His formula? Mixtapes. Which in a split second transformed him into being an unsigned newcomer to a mainstream maven with a record deal.
His music alone has managed to embody a musical rollercoaster that fans can’t seem to get off from. From one end, his smooth ballads can capitvate the hearts of many women to harsh hip-hop interludes that have men putting his music on repeat. This year alone, he has added his signature style with some of the biggest names in music such as Jay-Z, Kanye West, Mary J. Blige and Jamie Foxx.
In early February of 2009, Drake released his third official mixtape, ‘So Far Gone,’ featuring Drake’s mentor Lil’ Wayne, Lloyd, and close friend Trey Songz. Two of the top singles, ‘Best I ever had’ and ‘Successful’ had a very popular reputation on every radio station.
‘Best I ever had’ was taken from the ‘So Far Gone’ mixtape and became, arguably, the top summer jam of 2009.
Taking music lovers for a whirlwind, Drake encompasses both raw but detailed appeal making his music undeniably attractive for every eccletic palette. Drake’s anthem ‘Successful’ still holds the number one spot on music lovers charts.Through a back-to-back ongoing competition with label boss Lil Wayne, Drake manages to keep up with him on almost every track that they do together. His rapping style, uncomparable to most. His messages, undeniably brainwashing fans that know every lyric line by line.
With a combination of the various influences he has come across, Drake is on a successful path all on his own. The memorable, constantly surprising lyrics and addictive flow in addition to the catchy hooks and beats, Drake has come so far, so soon in music.
After a ferocious bidding war, Drake ended up signing with Universal Motown and has begun to make his place in musical history.