Champagne Papi has come a long way since his Degrassi days. He’s since gotten out of that wheelchair and has been running the world as one of the most talented and celebrated artists of his generation.
Drake’s discography is heavily focused on rap, yet he has been credited with infusing R&B into the current hip hop scene. Drake has an incredible body of work already for his age, and here’s how we think it stacks up.
Drake’s Albums Ranked
- If You’re Reading This It’s Too Late (2015)
- Take Care (2011)
- Views (2016)
- Honestly, Nevermind (2022)
If You’re Reading This It’s Too Late (2015)
Okay, technically it’s a mixtape, but it’s just too good to not include here. This album is a self-reflective piece by Drake, and he explores his own frustrations and pain in thoughtful, biting lyrics.
“Energy” is a complex take on the isolation and troubles that come from the wealth and fame that Drake has obtained.
The theme of loneliness also comes into play on “Company,” where Drake lyrically looks at what it’s like to be alone in a room full of people.
Ultimately, “If You’re Reading This It’s Too Late” got lost in the sauce of Drake’s other high profile releases, but this is still a solid piece of work from the man.
The most popular track from “If You’re Reading This It’s Too Late” is: “Energy”
Take Care (2011)
Most songs on the star-studded “Take Care” are sensual in nature and almost harken back to the early 2000s R&B scene.
The title track features special guest Rihanna (more on her in another post), and Drake’s tight flow fills in the spaces between her lush vocals.
“Marvins Room” is another fan favorite from “Take Care.” It’s not lyrically complex, yet it does showcase a more vulnerable Drake who’s grappling with a lost love.
“Take Care” was a free ranging album that’s a reflection of Drake’s ability to really take care of his artistry.
The most popular track from “Take Care” is “Take Care ft. Rihanna”
Views (2016)
“Views” still has a chokehold on everyone who just needs one dance. Sleek beats and artful lyrics work in Drake’s favor for this 2016 favorite.
There are a whopping 20 tracks on this album, and while there’s some repetition, no two songs are exactly alike.
Redemption is a slow, raw look into Drake’s romantic commitments – or lack therefore. He name-drops multiple lovers in this fairly scathing track.
Meanwhile, “Faithful” follows Drake’s musings about a lover who just won’t make the time.
“Views” takes a beat to get into, but it’s clear once the tracks start flowing that Drake used this album to examine his personal strife and unrepentant hope for the future.
The most popular track from “Views” is: “One Dance”
Honestly, Nevermind (2022)
“Honestly, Nevermind” was Drake’s surprise gift to 2022. This is a break from his usual work, as he seems to have hopped on the pop bandwagon to craft what could be considered a dance album.
One thing this is not is a fluid album. Songs, like “A Keeper” are disjointed and the vocals come through on the beats.
His typically clever bars take a break on tracks like “Calling My Name” and the lyrics become more raunchy, but still fun.
Arguably, this type of work came a little too late as male artists are largely transitioning out of this type of pop, but it’s still something fresh and new from good old Drake.
The most popular track from “Honestly, Nevermind” is: “Massive”
Conclusion
Drake has an illustrious career in the music industry, and his albums have continually evolved.
From the introspective and biting lyrics to danceable beats, Drake’s discography has depth.
Drake continues to push the boundaries – So if you haven’t already, take some time to dive into the many layers of this multi-talented artist.