28 Facts About Drake

28 Facts About Drake

Drake, the Canadian rapper, singer, and actor, has taken the music world by storm. His journey from a teenage actor to a global music icon is filled with fascinating details. Here are some intriguing facts about Drake that you might not know.

Early Life and Background

Drake's early years shaped much of his career and persona. Let's dive into some lesser-known details about his beginnings.

1. Drake's full name is Aubrey Drake Graham. Born on October 24, 1986, in Toronto, Canada, he was raised by his mother after his parents divorced when he was five.

2. His father, Dennis Graham, was a drummer for Jerry Lee Lewis. This musical background influenced Drake's passion for music from a young age.

3. Drake attended Forest Hill Collegiate Institute. Despite facing racial and religious challenges, he found solace in acting and music.

4. He is of mixed race. His father is African American, and his mother, Sandi Graham, is Jewish-Canadian. Drake often references his heritage in his music.

Acting Career

Before dominating the music charts, Drake was known for his role on a popular TV show. Here are some facts about his acting career.

5. Drake starred as Jimmy Brooks on "Degrassi: The Next Generation." He played a basketball player who becomes wheelchair-bound after a school shooting.

6. He was on "Degrassi" for seven seasons. His character's journey resonated with many viewers, making him a household name in Canada.

7. Drake used his earnings from "Degrassi" to fund his music career. This investment paid off, leading to his first mixtape release.

Music Career

Drake's transition from acting to music was seamless, and he quickly became a force in the industry. Here are some key moments from his musical journey.

8. Drake's first mixtape, "Room for Improvement," was released in 2006. It featured collaborations with artists like Trey Songz and Lupe Fiasco.

9. His breakthrough came with the mixtape "So Far Gone" in 2009. The single "Best I Ever Had" peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot 100.

10. Drake signed with Lil Wayne's label, Young Money Entertainment, in 2009. This partnership catapulted his career to new heights.

11. His debut album, "Thank Me Later," was released in 2010. It debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 and was certified platinum.

12. Drake has won four Grammy Awards. His first Grammy came in 2013 for Best Rap Album with "Take Care."

13. He holds the record for the most charted songs (258) on the Billboard Hot 100. This includes both solo tracks and collaborations.

14. Drake's "Scorpion" album broke streaming records. It was streamed over 1 billion times in its first week of release in 2018.

Personal Life

Drake's personal life often makes headlines. Here are some interesting tidbits about his life off-stage.

15. Drake has a son named Adonis. He confirmed his son's existence in his 2018 album "Scorpion."

16. He owns a luxurious mansion in Toronto. Known as "The Embassy," it features an NBA-sized basketball court and a recording studio.

17. Drake is a huge basketball fan. He is often seen courtside at Toronto Raptors games and serves as the team's global ambassador.

18. He has a tattoo of Lil Wayne on his arm. This is a tribute to the mentor who helped launch his career.

Business Ventures

Drake's influence extends beyond music. He has ventured into various business endeavors, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit.

19. Drake co-owns the OVO (October's Very Own) brand. This includes a record label, clothing line, and annual music festival.

20. He has a whiskey brand called Virginia Black. Launched in 2016, it has received positive reviews for its smooth taste.

21. Drake is involved in the eSports industry. He is a co-owner of the professional gaming organization 100 Thieves.

22. He has a partnership with Nike. The OVO x Nike collaboration features exclusive sneakers and apparel.

Philanthropy

Drake is known for his generosity and philanthropic efforts. Here are some ways he gives back to the community.

23. Drake donated $1 million in his "God's Plan" music video. The video shows him giving away money to families, schools, and charities.

24. He supports various educational initiatives. This includes funding scholarships and donating to schools in Toronto.

25. Drake has contributed to disaster relief efforts. He has donated to causes like Hurricane Harvey relief and COVID-19 response funds.

Fun Facts

To wrap things up, here are some fun and quirky facts about Drake that highlight his unique personality.

26. Drake's favorite color is gold. He often incorporates gold elements into his fashion and branding.

27. He has a collection of Birkin bags. Drake has been collecting these luxury handbags for his future wife.

28. Drake's nickname "Drizzy" was given to him by his friend and producer, Noah "40" Shebib. The nickname has stuck with him throughout his career.

Drake's Impact and Legacy

Drake's journey from Degrassi to global superstardom shows his versatility and talent. His music, blending rap, R&B, and pop, has set trends and broken records. With hits like "Hotline Bling" and "God's Plan," he's become a household name. Beyond music, his influence extends to fashion, sports, and philanthropy. Drake's OVO brand and Toronto Raptors partnership highlight his business acumen. His charitable efforts, like the "God's Plan" video, show his commitment to giving back. Drake's ability to stay relevant in a constantly changing industry speaks volumes about his adaptability. As he continues to evolve, fans eagerly await what he'll do next. His legacy, marked by innovation and impact, will undoubtedly inspire future artists. Drake's story is a testament to hard work, creativity, and staying true to oneself.