Drake

ABOUT

Aubrey Drake Graham, globally renowned simply as "Drake," is a Canadian rapper, singer, songwriter, record producer, and actor. Born on October 24, 1986, in Toronto, Ontario, Drake has risen to become one of the most influential figures in modern music. He first garnered recognition with his role as Jimmy Brooks on the television series "Degrassi: The Next Generation." Transitioning into the music industry, Drake has since released numerous chart-topping albums and singles, earning quintessential status in both contemporary rap and pop music. Known for his emotive vocal delivery, innovative fusion of genres, and introspective lyrics, Drake has established himself as a cultural icon.

BEFORE FAME

Before achieving global stardom, Drake spent his early years in Toronto's Forest Hill neighborhood. He attended Forest Hill Collegiate Institute, where his interest in the arts began to flourish. Drake's initial breakthrough came through his acting career on "Degrassi: The Next Generation," where he portrayed a character who navigates life-changing challenges after becoming paralyzed from the waist down. Despite his burgeoning success as an actor, Drake's passion for music couldn't be contained. He began releasing mixtapes, the first of which, "Room for Improvement," came out in 2006, followed by "Comeback Season" in 2007 and "So Far Gone" in 2009. These mixtapes gained significant attention, ultimately captivating the interest of Lil Wayne, who would later sign Drake to his label, Young Money Entertainment.

TRIVIA

• Drake's full name is Aubrey Drake Graham.
• He holds dual citizenship in Canada and the United States.
• His 2010 debut studio album, "Thank Me Later," debuted at number one on the Billboard 200.
• Drake has broken multiple records on the Billboard Hot 100, including being the first artist to debut two songs in the top 10 at the same time.
• He popularized the phrase "YOLO" (You Only Live Once) with his track "The Motto."
• Beyond music, Drake is the creator and owner of the OVO (October's Very Own) brand, which encompasses his record label, clothing line, and annual OVO Fest in Toronto.
• He was nominated for and won his first Grammy Award for Best Rap Album for "Take Care" in 2013.

FAMILY LIFE

Drake's family background is rich and diverse. His father, Dennis Graham, is an African American drummer who worked with prominent artists such as Jerry Lee Lewis, while his mother, Sandi Graham (née Sher), is a Canadian Jew who worked as an educator and florist. Drake has often spoken about his close relationship with his mother. He also has a son, Adonis Graham, with French artist Sophie Brussaux, with whom he shares a co-parenting relationship.

ASSOCIATED WITH

Drake's collaborations and associations span the music industry's elite. He has worked extensively with other major artists, including Lil Wayne, Nicki Minaj, Rihanna, Kanye West, and Future. Prominent mentors and collaborators such as Lil Wayne played significant roles in his career trajectory. Moreover, his own protégé, The Weeknd, has also enjoyed substantial success. Through his record label, OVO Sound, Drake has further solidified his influence, nurturing and promoting up-and-coming talents like PARTYNEXTDOOR and Majid Jordan. His industry friendships and collaborations have continued to shape and define contemporary rap and pop music.

Drake's journey from a teenage soap opera star to a music mogul epitomizes his relentless drive and undeniable talent, making him a ubiquitous presence in global pop culture.