Let's face it: Drake has kind of been running rap for the past couple of years. Regardless of whatever people think of his music, whenever he puts something out, whether it's a single, an album, or even a freebie for the people, everything he drops gets people talking. And, in that spirit, I thought I'd share my top 5 favorite Drake songs to drop this year. (Note: This does not count features, so you won't see songs like "Believe Me," "DnF," "Only," or whatever else on here.)
5. 6 God
This song just dropped recently, but it has the ability to become the next "0 to 100." Not only are people starting to remix this song, but the original represents the same thing "0 to 100" did; that Drake is confident in his craft and he's not afraid to show it. And really, when you've garnered the ability to grab the attention of pretty much EVERYONE whenever you drop something new, why shouldn't you have that confidence?
4. How About Now
Built around a Jodeci sample, this song shows how Drake's ability to show versatility in his cadences, and to say more with less, has evolved since his inception in the mainstream world. It also was the first song to drop (well, leak) in a while, which kind of revived interest in what Drizzy's cooking up for next year.
3. Days in the East
"Draft Day" may have dropped a few days prior, but this song stole the attention away from that song (at least to me) with it not only being the most R&B song on this list, but it not being as solemn (and thus, more confident in himself) as his previous songs that fall in that category. The song represents a transition in Drake from an emotional singer/rapper to an overall artist who is confident in himself and in his music.
2. 2 On/Thotful (ft. OB O'Brien)
Tinashe's original "2 On" was already a banger, but when Drizzy got a hold of it, he gave it a complete 180 degree makeover, doing what only Drake can do for a song like this. His OVO cohort OB O'Brien is credited as the lead artist, but let's be real here: this is Drake's song. In fact, it may have even helped the original gain traction. (A cosign from Drizzy Drake never hurts, that much is certain.)
1. 0 to 100/The Catch Up
Would you expect any other song at #1? This song not only got the most recognition, but it is the most deserving of it, combining the braggadocio of his newer material with his more heartfelt stuff of the days of yore, and providing appropriate instrumental accompaniments for each one. Also, the timing of this song dropping (i.e. during Nicki Minaj's Summer Jam set) shows Drake's capability for knowing just when to catch the attention of the people.) The transition of the two halves is nearly flawless, and there are plenty of quotables throughout this 6 and a half minute ride. Plus, as the icing on the cake, he pretty much announced his next album was dropping in spring 2015.
