Friday, March 16, 2012

I'll Take Care of You

Racing against myself but I’m a couple steps behind. That’s why I got to ask, ‘Is anything I’m doing brand new? Is everything I’m doing too late?”

Contrary to Drake’s concerns in his hit “Brand New”, he is a one of a kind rapper producing innovative and fresh music. This Canadian Jewish rapper first made his appearance on Degrassi as wheel-chair Jimmy, but escaped this role by proving himself musically. His 2010 album Thank Me Later went platinum and instantly Drake developed into a household name. He has since become known worldwide for his performance technique and somewhat arrogant behavior.

The development from his simple confessionals in Thank Me Later to his profound and soulful hits in Take Care marks a significant growth in Drake as a performer. This album involves current day superstars like Lil Wayne, Nikki Minaj, and Andre 3000 and collaborations with legends like Stevie Wonder. Drake utilizes different sounds and instruments to craft a story for his listeners. We get a glimpse of his performance life or some of his prolific inner thoughts. He comments, "We live in a generation of not being in love" over Stevie Wonder's harmonica on "Doing It Wrong." His insight on the instability of relationships nowadays made “Doing It Wrong” a relatable song for listeners.

Some argue the quality of the songs in the sophomore album Take Care was not anywhere close to his original Thank Me Later. In my opinion the issues Drake addresses in his album are relatable and are much more lyrically compelling than the songs of most rappers nowadays. I congratulate his efforts on this album and cannot wait for the junior.

-Eden Mesfin

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