Drake is a Canadian rapper who has solidified himself as one of the staples of today’s hip-hop and rap scene. The Toronto native has been producing music since 2006.
Like many other artists, he can be seen experimenting with multiple musical styles in an effort to push boundaries.
Drake said in an interview he is a big fan of the soulful sounds of R&B but also enjoys experimenting with electronic and other influences.
But what exactly is his music genre now? He can’t easily be pinned down to any one single genre.
Drake’s general music genres
Alternative Hip-Hop
Drake’s music is often associated with the alternative hip-hop subgenre.
He uses different instruments, samples, and production techniques to create unique styles that infuse normal hip hop with elements of other genres.
Originally, Kanye West revived Alternative Hip-Hop. With Drake’s incorporation of various new elements, he has pushed the alternative hip-hop sound even further.
Drake’s music type can vary drastically within the same song.
Emo Rap
Drake has also been known to dabble in the emo rap subgenre.
Drake produces music where he puts a range of powerful emotions on display. This is diametrically opposed to the more classic gangster rap.
His melodic delivery and heartfelt lyricism pair with his thoughtful production to create an entirely new soundscape.
Emo-rap also often incorporates alternative rock, pop-punk, and indie music elements.
Dance Influences:
Drake has also experimented with the inclusion of dance elements in his music.
His incorporation of electronic sounds and beats often draws influence from EDM and other forms of dance music.
As Eminem, he got inspiration from modern pop.
This allows Drake to create a sound that is accessible for fans who enjoy both hip-hop and electronic music. And the catchy sound that will stay in listeners’ minds.
How did Drake’s music style develop?
Thank Me Later
In his early albums, Drake’s music was heavily influenced by his experiences growing up in Toronto and his feelings of isolation and rejection.
His debut album, “Thank Me Later,” explored themes of fame and success, as well as the challenges of adjusting to a life in the spotlight.
The album was a commercial success, with hit singles like “Over” and “Find Your Love” establishing Drake as a major force in the hip hop scene.
Take Care
With the release of his second album, “Take Care,” in 2011, Drake’s music began to evolve and take on a more introspective and emotional tone.
The album, which featured collaborations with artists like Rihanna and Lil Wayne, tackled themes of love, heartbreak, and vulnerability, and spawned hit singles like “Headlines” and “The Motto”.
Nothing Was the Same
In 2013, Drake released his third album, “Nothing Was the Same,” which continued to showcase his growth as an artist.
The album featured more personal and introspective lyrics, and explored themes of friendship, relationships, and family. It also featured more diverse production, incorporating elements of R&B, soul, and electronic music.
The album was a critical and commercial success, and contains singles like “Hold On, We’re Going Home” and “Started from the Bottom”.
Views
Drake’s fourth album, “Views,” released in 2016, marked a significant shift in his music style.
The album featured a more R&B-influenced sound, with Drake incorporating elements of dancehall and reggae music into his tracks.
Songs are “One Dance” and “Hotline Bling,” and solidified Drake’s position as one of the biggest names in Alternative Hip Hop.
Scorpion
Drake’s “Scorpion,” released in 2018, continued to showcase his evolution as an artist.
The album featured a mix of rap and R&B, and tackled themes of fatherhood, heartbreak, and the challenges of fame.
Singles like “In My Feelings” and “Nonstop” were a commercial success. It’s the first album to reach over one billion streams in a single week on Apple Music.
Certified Lover Boy
Certified Lover Boy showcases Drake’s skillful ability to combine his diverse music styles.
The album has a dark, cloistered atmosphere though.
Luxury and pettiness are persistent themes across the album. Unfortunately, critical reception notes that the albums seems a little repetitive.
Certified Lover Boy has singles like “Fair Trade” and “Knife Talk”.
Honestly, Nevermind
Drake’s Honestly, Nevermind album is a breezy and fun listen that aims to capture the energy of a dancefloor.
Unfortunately, it fails to live up to its potential thanks to lacklustre songwriting and half-hearted house beats.
However, the record does manage some moments of inspiration.
The records’ high flyers are “Massive” and “Jimmy Cooks”.
Conclusion
Drake is a Canadian rapper who has solidified himself in today’s hip-hop scene.
His music is often associated with the Alternative Hip-Hop subgenre. He also dabbles in the Emo Rap subgenre and incorporates dance influences in his music.
The music style has evolved over his albums.