Here's a more detailed timeline of how Drake's transformation into a successful rapper occurred:
Early Interest in Music: While Drake had some exposure to music through the show, he displayed an early passion for hip-hop and R&B. He grew up listening to various artists, including Jay-Z, Eminem, and 50 Cent.
Starting Out: After wrapping up his acting commitments in 2007, Drake ventured into music full-time. He began creating his own mixtapes and sharing them with friends and family.
Early Mixtapes: Drake released several mixtapes that gradually garnered attention among local artists, fans, and music critics. Mixtapes like "Room For Improvement," "Comeback Season," and "So Far Gone" helped build his early fan base and demonstrate his skills as a rapper and songwriter.
Signing With Young Money Entertainment: In 2009, Drake signed a recording contract with Young Money Entertainment, a label founded by hip-hop superstar Lil Wayne. This deal helped Drake's career reach a wider audience.
Critical Success and Mainstream Recognition: Drake's third mixtape, "So Far Gone," received critical acclaim and commercial success in 2009. The mixtape featured hit songs like "Best I Ever Had" and "Successful," earning him recognition as an emerging talent in the music industry.
Debut Album: In 2010, Drake released his debut studio album "Thank Me Later," featuring popular tracks like "Over" and "Find Your Love." The album was a commercial success, selling over 400,000 copies in the first week alone.
Continued Success: From that point on, Drake's career flourished, with subsequent albums like "Take Care," "Nothing Was the Same," "Views," "More Life," and "Scorpion" all achieving commercial and critical acclaim. He became known for his unique blend of hip-hop, R&B, and pop styles, as well as his introspective and emotionally resonant lyrics.
Collaborations and Evolution: Over the years, Drake collaborated with numerous other artists, such as Rihanna, Jay-Z, Nicki Minaj, and Kanye West. These collaborations helped expand his reach and further solidify his position as one of the top artists in the music industry.
Versatility and Crossover Appeal: Drake's music has evolved over time, showcasing his versatility as an artist. He has been able to adapt to and blend various genres, appealing to a wide audience and becoming one of the most commercially successful and critically acclaimed musicians in the world.