Billboard ranks the 'Hotline Bling' hitmaker among the greatest pop stars of the 21st century, citing his unprecedented chart success and cultural impact with his popular singles and albums.
- Nov 13, 2024
AceShowbiz - With 13 Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 singles and 13 No. 1 albums on the Billboard 200 chart, Drake stands firmly as one of the greatest pop stars of our time. His dominance has propelled him to a level of cultural influence few artists have ever achieved.
Aubrey "Drake" Graham's path to stardom was anything but conventional. Rising from humble beginnings as an actor on the Canadian teen soap "Degrassi: The Next Generation", Drake's unique blend of singing and rapping caught the attention of Lil Wayne, who signed him to his Young Money label.
Drake's 2009 mixtape "So Far Gone" introduced the world to his introspective lyrics and hypnotic beats, featuring standout tracks like "Lust for Life" and "Best I Ever Had". The latter hit No. 2 on the Hot 100, launching Drake's journey into the stratosphere.
With his 2010 debut album "Thank Me Later", Drake further solidified his status as a crossover sensation. Collaborations with Rihanna and Nicki Minaj cemented his position in the pop vanguard. His sophomore album "Take Care" won his first Grammy and featured tracks like "Marvins Room", which became a viral sensation.
Drake's third album "Nothing Was the Same" was a testament to his growth and ambition. Lead single "Started From the Bottom" became an anthem, while "Hold On, We're Going Home" showcased his global pop aspirations.
In the mid-2010s, Drake's ubiquity in pop culture reached new heights. He hosted "Saturday Night Live" and the ESPYs, and his lyrics became part of the social media lexicon. Collaborations with Fetty Wap, Migos and I LOVE MAKONNEN solidified his dominance in the hip-hop scene.
Throughout his career, Drake has consistently defied genre boundaries, blending R&B, pop and hip-hop with unmatched fluidity. His ability to craft both catchy hooks and deeply personal lyrics has resonated with millions worldwide.
Despite his recent setbacks with less acclaimed albums, Drake's legacy as one of the most influential pop stars of the 21st century remains secure. His groundbreaking chart success, cultural impact, and relentless drive have earned him a place among the music industry's all-time greats.
