Tricia Kanhai
Contributor
Aubrey “Drake” Graham’s November 15 release and second studio album, Take Care, boasts the rapper’s signature candor and quick wit.
The 25-year-old Toronto-based artist’s rise has been rapid since his 2009 Grammy-nominated mixtape So Far Gone and his 2010 debut studio album Thank Me Later.
Take Care is Drake’s best work yet.
The lyrical content comes from Drake’s past and present experiences. From being hated on, to failed relationships, to being successful, Drake is an open book with his personal lyrical testimony, with tracks like “Look What You’ve Done” as evidence. Drake’s openness makes him very relatable to his audience.
While Drake is not the best singer, he can hold a tune well enough to get his point across.
As a lyricist, his flow is smooth and swift and his verses on Take Care prove that he is one of the best. Drake’s confidence as a rapper can be heard on “Headlines” and “Over My Dead Body” featuring fellow Canadian artist Chantal Kreviazuk.
Drake’s sophomore effort is a solid album with production from local producers Noah “40” Shebib and Boi-1da. The guest features range from newcomer The Weeknd, to the legendary Stevie Wonder. Some fans may criticize Take Care for not being hard enough; regardless, Drake stays true to his lyrical mix of rapping and singing, and has created an excellent hip-hop album.
Take Care might just be what Drake was referring to when he suggested that he be thanked later. As he solidifies his place as one of the greatest hip-hop artists ever, Drake deserves to be thanked now.
