Drake

Definition

Drake is a Canadian rapper, singer, songwriter, and entrepreneur who rose to prominence in the 2000s and has become one of the most influential figures in hip hop and popular music. Known for his distinctive blend of rap and R&B, he has contributed to the evolution of contemporary hip hop by incorporating emotional vulnerability and melodic hooks into his music, which has significantly impacted the genre's sound and mainstream appeal.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Drake's career began with his role as Jimmy Brooks on the television series 'Degrassi: The Next Generation' before he transitioned into music.
2. He gained widespread recognition with his 2009 mixtape 'So Far Gone,' which included hits like 'Best I Ever Had' and 'Successful.'
3. Drake has set numerous Billboard chart records, including being the first artist to debut over 20 songs simultaneously on the Billboard Hot 100.
4. His collaborations with other artists span various genres, bridging gaps between hip hop, R&B, pop, and dance music.
5. Drake has been recognized with multiple Grammy Awards and has consistently topped charts, solidifying his status as a global music icon.

Review Questions

• How did Drake's early career as an actor influence his transition into music?
  • Drake's early career as an actor on 'Degrassi: The Next Generation' provided him with a platform to develop his public persona and artistic identity. This experience helped him hone his storytelling skills, which he later incorporated into his music. The emotional depth and relatability found in his lyrics can be traced back to his acting background, allowing him to connect with audiences on a personal level.
• In what ways did Drake's blend of rap and R&B change the landscape of hip hop music?
  • Drake's unique fusion of rap and R&B brought a new emotional depth to hip hop, encouraging artists to explore vulnerability in their lyrics. His melodic approach and catchy hooks made rap more accessible to mainstream audiences while also expanding its boundaries. As a result, many artists began to adopt similar styles, blending genres in ways that were previously uncommon in the hip hop scene.
• Evaluate Drake's impact on the evolution of hip hop culture in the 21st century, considering his influence on emerging artists and industry trends.
  • Drake's impact on hip hop culture is profound as he redefined what it means to be a successful artist in the 21st century. By prioritizing emotional authenticity and genre-blending in his work, he paved the way for a new wave of artists who similarly embrace vulnerability. His entrepreneurial spirit through ventures like OVO Sound has also shifted industry trends towards artist-led labels. This combination of musical innovation and business acumen has transformed not only the sound but also the structure of the music industry itself.

Related terms

Mixtape: A compilation of music, usually consisting of various tracks from different artists or original songs by a single artist, often released for promotional purposes.

OVO Sound: A record label founded by Drake, known for signing and promoting a diverse range of artists within hip hop and R&B.

Bling Era: A term used to describe the period in hip hop characterized by flashy lifestyles, wealth, and materialism, often reflected in music videos and lyrics.