The Untold Story of Drake | His Rise to Fame, Business Empire, Music, and 9 Facts

Drake, born Aubrey Drake Graham on October 24, 1986, in Toronto, Canada, is one of the most influential and successful artists of the 21st century. His journey from a young actor on a Canadian TV show to a global music mogul is a testament to his talent, perseverance, and adaptability. In this article, we will take you through Drake’s life, career, achievements, personal life, and the impact he has had on the music industry.

Who is Drake?

Drake, full name Aubrey Drake Graham, is a Canadian rapper, singer, songwriter, and actor. He is known for blending rap with R&B, making hits that appeal to diverse audiences across genres. His musical style combines emotional depth with catchy hooks, and his lyrics often explore themes of love, fame, wealth, and self-reflection.

From his roots in the entertainment industry as an actor to becoming one of the most-streamed artists of all time, Drake’s rise to fame has been nothing short of remarkable.

Early Life: A Star is Born in Toronto

Drake was born to a mixed-race family. His father, Dennis Graham, is an African American drummer from Memphis, Tennessee, and his mother, Sandi Graham, is a white Jewish Canadian educator from Toronto. Growing up in Toronto’s Forest Hill neighborhood, Drake had a unique upbringing.

He spent much of his early years in a single-parent household with his mother after his parents divorced when he was just five years old. Despite his challenges, Drake’s passion for music and the arts blossomed early.

Drake attended Forest Hill Collegiate Institute, where he found his love for acting. His parents’ background in the entertainment industry likely influenced his early interest. His father, a former drummer, was close to musical legends like Jerry Lee Lewis, and his mother worked as an educator.

How Did Drake Start His Career?

Before Drake became a household name in the world of music, he was known for his role as Jimmy Brooks on the Canadian teen drama Degrassi: The Next Generation.

He joined the show in 2001 when he was just 15 years old and played a popular high school athlete who was tragically paralyzed after a school shooting. This role gave Drake his first taste of fame, and he appeared on the show for seven seasons, until 2009.

Although he enjoyed his acting career, Drake’s true passion always lay in music. He started recording music as early as 2006, releasing his first mixtape, Room for Improvement, which went largely unnoticed. Despite this, he continued to hone his skills, and his big break came in 2009 with the release of his third mixtape, So Far Gone.

Breakthrough Moment for Drake

Released in February 2009, So Far Gone was a turning point in Drake’s career. The mixtape featured hits like “Best I Ever Had” and “Successful,” which brought him widespread recognition.

“Best I Ever Had” became one of the most iconic songs of that year, charting high on the Billboard Hot 100 and gaining massive radio play. This success led to Drake’s signing with Lil Wayne’s record label, Young Money Entertainment, in June 2009.

Drake’s association with Lil Wayne would prove to be one of the most important alliances of his career, as it propelled him into the spotlight and helped shape his future success. With Young Money, Drake was able to collaborate with other top artists in the industry, gaining exposure and refining his sound.

What Are Some of Drake’s Major Career Achievements?

Drake’s career has been filled with numerous milestones and accomplishments, making him one of the most successful artists in the world. Here are some key highlights:

1. Take Care (2011) – A Critical and Commercial Success

Drake’s second studio album, Take Care, released in 2011, was a game-changer. The album received critical acclaim for its introspective lyrics, blending of genres, and innovative sound.

The album featured collaborations with artists like Rihanna, Nicki Minaj, and The Weeknd. It included some of Drake’s most iconic tracks, including “Marvins Room” and “Headlines.”

Take Care won the Grammy Award for Best Rap Album in 2013, cementing Drake’s place as a major player in the music industry.

2. Record-Breaking Success with Nothing Was the Same (2013) and Views (2016)

Drake’s 2013 album, Nothing Was the Same, was another milestone in his career. The album featured hits like “Started From the Bottom” and “Hold On, We’re Going Home,” further solidifying his role in both rap and pop music.

His 2016 album Views made a significant impact on the charts, with songs like “Hotline Bling” and “One Dance” dominating radio airwaves. Views became the first album to achieve 1 billion streams on Apple Music and was certified quadruple platinum by the RIAA.

3. The Billboard Records

In 2018, Drake became the first artist in history to have 50 songs chart on the Billboard Hot 100 simultaneously. His impact on streaming services is undeniable, and his dominance on the charts is a testament to his popularity and influence.

Drake’s single “In My Feelings,” released in 2018, became an international sensation, spawning viral dance challenges and topping charts worldwide.

4. Awards and Accolades

Drake has accumulated numerous awards throughout his career, including multiple Grammy Awards, American Music Awards, and Billboard Music Awards. His consistency in creating hit after hit has made him one of the most awarded and recognized artists of his generation.

What is Drake’s Impact on the Music Industry?

Drake’s influence on modern music cannot be overstated. His ability to blend different genres, his lyrical honesty, and his ability to connect with listeners on a personal level have reshaped the landscape of both hip-hop and pop music.

One of Drake’s major contributions is popularizing the fusion of rap with R&B, opening the door for many artists to cross genre boundaries. He is also credited with changing the way music is consumed, popularizing streaming platforms like Apple Music and Spotify, and influencing the way albums and singles are released.

Drake’s success has paved the way for new generations of artists to embrace vulnerability in their music, breaking down the barriers of masculinity in hip-hop and allowing for more emotional expression. This has opened the door for artists like Post Malone, Travis Scott, and J. Cole, who have drawn inspiration from Drake’s ability to create relatable music that resonates across demographics.

How Has Drake’s Personal Life Influenced His Music?

Drake’s personal life has often been a source of inspiration for his music. He has been open about his struggles with fame, relationships, and his search for meaning in the world. His upbringing, characterized by a mix of racial identities and the challenges of growing up in a single-parent home, is often reflected in his lyrics.

Drake’s relationships, including his high-profile romance with Rihanna, his father-son relationship with his son Adonis, and his issues with various ex-partners, have also played a significant role in shaping his public persona and the themes he explores in his music.

His 2018 album Scorpion includes several songs that explore his experiences with fatherhood, fame, and love, particularly in the song “Emotionless,” where he reflects on the pressures of his public image and private life.

What Are Some of Drake’s Business Ventures?

Beyond his music career, Drake has established himself as a savvy businessman with numerous ventures that extend into fashion, technology, and spirits. His entrepreneurial spirit has made him a well-rounded icon whose influence reaches beyond just music.

1. OVO (October’s Very Own)

One of Drake’s most significant business endeavors is his clothing brand, OVO (October’s Very Own). Launched in 2012, OVO started as a small clothing line but has since grown into a global brand.

OVO has become synonymous with Drake’s personal style, offering premium streetwear and collaboration pieces that reflect his unique aesthetic. The brand has expanded into partnerships with major companies like Nike, and it’s often seen on high-profile celebrities and fans worldwide.

OVO’s success isn’t just about fashion; it’s also about creating a lifestyle brand that is associated with exclusivity, luxury, and cultural relevance. Drake’s ability to connect with his audience through his brand showcases his business acumen and understanding of his fanbase.

2. Virginia Black Whiskey

In 2016, Drake partnered with spirits entrepreneur Brent Hocking to launch Virginia Black, a whiskey brand that quickly gained traction in the U.S. market. Virginia Black is a smooth, rich bourbon that blends Drake’s personal brand with the high-end world of luxury spirits.

The whiskey received praise for its taste and sleek packaging, aligning perfectly with Drake’s image of sophistication and success.

The partnership was an example of how Drake has been able to leverage his celebrity status to create products that resonate with his audience. The whiskey’s success further solidified Drake as a multifaceted entrepreneur.

3. Music Streaming and Technology Partnerships

Drake has also capitalized on the rise of music streaming services. In 2015, he signed an exclusive deal with Apple Music, making his albums and content available to millions of subscribers worldwide.

The partnership was a pivotal moment in both the music streaming and tech industries, as it helped drive further innovation in how artists engage with fans through platforms like Apple Music.

Drake’s presence on platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube helped establish him as a leader in the digital era of music consumption. His albums often break streaming records, and he has frequently used these platforms to promote new releases, exclusive content, and live performances, engaging directly with his fanbase.

4. Real Estate Investments

Drake has also ventured into real estate, making a name for himself as a property mogul. In 2017, he purchased a massive estate in the prestigious Bridle Path neighborhood in Toronto, often referred to as “The Embassy.”

The mansion, which is worth around $6.7 million, reflects Drake’s luxurious lifestyle and has been the subject of several viral moments, including the “God’s Plan” music video, where he gave away a significant amount of money to people in need.

His real estate investments are a further extension of his brand, symbolizing both his financial success and his roots in Toronto. With properties in multiple cities, Drake’s real estate portfolio continues to grow, demonstrating his commitment to building lasting wealth.

What Is Drake’s Legacy?

Drake’s legacy is one of versatility, influence, and success. His ability to continuously evolve and experiment with different musical styles has made him one of the most influential figures in the music world.

He has shown that it’s possible to be a rap icon and a pop superstar at the same time, and his impact on the music industry will likely continue for decades.

From his breakthrough as an actor to his reign as a chart-topping artist, Drake has proven time and time again that he is more than just a musician, he is a cultural icon.

Less Known Facts About Drake

• Drake’s debut mixtape Room for Improvement was recorded in his parents’ basement.
• Drake was initially hesitant about joining Degrassi because he didn’t want to be typecast as a “teen actor.”
• He’s a huge fan of the Toronto Raptors and has served as the team’s global ambassador since 2013.
• Drake has his own whiskey brand called Virginia Black, which has become quite popular.
• His song “God’s Plan” was one of the most streamed songs on Spotify in 2018 and also made headlines for its music video, where he gave away millions of dollars to people in need.
• He initially struggled with his identity as a mixed-race artist in the hip-hop world, but he has since embraced his multicultural background, which has influenced his music and public image.
• Drake is an avid chess player and has referred to the game as a metaphor for his life.
• His mother, Sandi Graham, was a teacher and had a significant impact on his work ethic and appreciation for education.
• Despite his fame, Drake maintains a close relationship with his Jewish heritage and has spoken publicly about his pride in his Jewish roots.

Drake’s life story is one of hard work, resilience, and undeniable talent. From a young actor to a chart-topping global superstar, his journey continues to inspire millions worldwide. Whether you’re a fan of his early mixtapes or his more recent hits, one thing is certain: Drake’s impact on the music industry will continue to be felt for years to come.