Drake is back, and the internet is losing its mind.
The Toronto rap icon just dropped his latest album, “$ome $exy $ongs 4 U” featuring singer-songwriter, PartyNextDoor on Feb. 14.
As expected its already topped charts and billboards.
But is the album really that good? Some songs might be, but “MEET YOUR PADRE”? Let’s just say, it’s not giving what it was supposed to give. Fans were expecting another anthem, maybe a slick Spanglish crossover like his previous feature in “MIA” with Bad Bunny that was released in 2018.
It is pretty safe to say that “MEET YOUR PADRE” is not a fan favorite, and Drake’s bars could definitely use some work in this song.
Kendrick Lamar has a feature on “Collard Greens” by ScHoolboy Q from 2014 where he raps a verse in Spanish. In comparison to Drake, Lamar has actual rhythm and zero secondhand embarrassment.
Drake sounds like a Duolingo owl with trust issues.
Despite Drake having some lyric issues in “Meet Your Padre”, his top song, “NOKIA”, is currently his most played song on this album and arguably the best.
“NOKIA” opens with a futuristic feeling but with a taste of nostalgia. With its glitchy synths and a bouncy drum pattern, it sounds like a modern take on early-2000s ringtone rap. It’s an upbeat song that is easily one of the best on this album.
But what makes the song stand out is how Drake weaves those themes into clever references to old-school technology and communication.
Lyrics like, “Had a Nokia, still had the signal in the hills / Never lost bars, but they tryna cut the deal” includes both older listeners who will appreciate the nostalgic callbacks, while younger fans will enjoy the infectious flow and seamless production.
Drake’s second most played song is “DIE TRYING”. The production on the song is undeniably strong, and it was designed to feel serious, intense and personal.
But “DIE TRYING” has the same feeling as Drake’s previously released album, “Her Loss”, from 2022.
Still, “DIE TRYING” is definitely one of the best songs on this album,. It just doesn’t necessarily bring anything new to the table. It’s classic Drake, but maybe a little too safe.
Drake involves lyrics that are deemed to be personal to him and shows through his emotions and personal experiences.
Drake’s third most played song is “GIMME A HUG”. Drake is no stranger to emotional, introspective tracks, and “GIMME A HUG” is his latest attempt at blending vulnerability with smooth production.
In comparison to “NOKIA”, “GIMMIE A HUG” is a slower type of song and more heartfelt. Is “GIMME A HUG” a bad song? Not at all. It’s got a clean, mellow vibe that fans of Drake’s softer tracks will love. If you’re like me, you will probably have this song on repeat.
Overall, Drake’s new album definitely has a questionable song but it is worth listening to. Despite Drake’s concerning Spanish, he continues to have a talent for rapping.
