Drake, born Aubrey Drake Graham on October 24, 1986, in Toronto, Canada, grew up in a multicultural household with his African American father and Jewish Canadian mother. His early life was shaped by the vibrant city of Toronto, but also by the challenges of his parentsâ divorce when he was just five years old. Drake found a love for the arts early on, landing his first major role as Jimmy Brooks on the popular teen drama Degrassi: The Next Generation. Although acting gave him a taste of fame, his true passion lay in music. During his time on Degrassi, Drake began releasing mixtapes, building a local fanbase with his unique blend of rap and R&B.
In 2009, everything changed when Drake released his third mixtape, So Far Gone. The project featured the hit single "Best I Ever Had," which quickly climbed the charts and caught the attention of industry heavyweights. This success led to a major record deal with Lil Wayneâs Young Money Entertainment, marking the beginning of his rise to global stardom. Drakeâs debut album, Thank Me Later, dropped in 2010 and debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200. The albumâs success solidified Drakeâs position as one of the most promising new artists in hip-hop.
Over the years, Drake has released a string of chart-topping albums and singles, including Take Care, Nothing Was the Same, and Scorpion. His ability to blend introspective lyrics with catchy hooks has made him a favorite among fans and critics alike. Songs like "Godâs Plan," "Hotline Bling," and "In My Feelings" have become cultural phenomena, earning him countless awards and breaking streaming records. Drakeâs versatility, whether rapping or singing, has set him apart in a competitive industry, allowing him to influence a generation of artists.
Today, Drake is not just a rapper; heâs a global icon with over 50 Top 10 hits and multiple Grammy Awards to his name. His OVO brand, which includes a record label, clothing line, and annual music festival, further cements his influence beyond music. From his humble beginnings on Canadian TV to becoming one of the most successful musicians of all time, Drakeâs journey is a testament to his relentless work ethic and undeniable talent. His story inspires millions, proving that with determination and vision, anything is possible.