Drake is one of the most successful and influential artists of the 21st century, having amassed a huge following and numerous accolades for his innovative blend of hip-hop, R&B, and pop music. Throughout his career, Drake has released a multitude of hit songs that have defined the sound of contemporary music, setting the bar for other artists and influencing the culture in countless ways. From his early mixtapes to his chart-topping albums, Drake has consistently delivered unforgettable tracks that resonate with fans around the world.
In this context, this article presents a list of the 20 best Drake songs, chosen for their impact on the music industry, their popularity with fans, and their artistic merit. The songs on this list cover a wide range of themes and styles, from introspective ballads to energetic anthems, showcasing the depth and versatility of Drake’s talents as a songwriter and performer. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual listener, this list is sure to provide a comprehensive overview of Drake’s most essential and enduring tracks, highlighting the highlights of his illustrious career and cementing his status as one of the most important and influential artists of our time.
1. ‘Marvin’s Room’ (2011) By: Drake
“Marvin’s Room” is a melancholic, introspective R&B song by Canadian rapper and singer Drake. The track features subdued production with a slow, moody beat and minimal instrumentation, allowing Drake’s vulnerable lyrics to take center stage. Through his lyrics, Drake portrays himself as a lonely and heartbroken man who is drinking alone in a club and calling his ex-girlfriend from the titular “Marvin’s Room,” a nod to the famous studio of the same name. He reminisces about their past relationship, expressing regret over his actions and longing for her company once again. The song is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and regret that showcases Drake’s ability to convey emotion through his music.
2. ‘The Motion’ (2013) By: Drake
“The Motion” is a smooth, introspective hip-hop/R&B track by Canadian rapper and singer Drake. The song features a minimalist, atmospheric beat with subtle synths and percussion that provides a moody backdrop to Drake’s introspective lyrics. Through his verses, Drake muses on the nature of success and the effects it has on personal relationships. He reflects on the changes in his life and the people who have come and gone, ultimately concluding that he needs to focus on himself to achieve his goals. The song is a contemplative, soulful exploration of the challenges of fame and the importance of self-reflection.
3. ‘Started from the Bottom’ (2013) By: Drake
“Started from the Bottom” is an upbeat, anthemic hip-hop track by Canadian rapper and singer Drake. The song features a catchy, piano-driven beat and a triumphant, sing-along chorus that celebrates Drake’s journey from humble beginnings to superstardom. Through his verses, Drake boasts about his success and the hard work and dedication it took to get there, while also acknowledging the doubters and haters who once dismissed him. The song is a bold, confident statement of self-belief and determination that inspires listeners to strive for their own success, no matter where they come from.
4. ‘Know Yourself’ (2015) By: Drake
“Know Yourself” is a gritty, hard-hitting hip-hop track by Canadian rapper and singer Drake. The song features a booming, trap-influenced beat and a menacing, repetitive synth riff that drives the track forward. Through his lyrics, Drake asserts his dominance and confidence as a rapper and proclaims his loyalty to his hometown of Toronto. He also includes a memorable hook that has become a popular meme: “Runnin’ through the 6 with my woes.” The song is a powerful expression of Drake’s identity and the pride he has in his city and his success, showcasing his skill as a rapper and his ability to craft memorable hooks.
5. ‘I’m on One’ (DJ Khaled feat Drake, Rick Ross and Lil Wayne, 2011)
“I’m on One” is a high-energy hip-hop track by American DJ and producer DJ Khaled, featuring verses from rappers Drake, Rick Ross, and Lil Wayne. The song features a propulsive, synth-heavy beat and a catchy, sing-along chorus that celebrates the excess and opulence associated with the hip-hop lifestyle. Through their lyrics, each of the rappers boasts about their success and their willingness to indulge in drugs, alcohol, and partying. The song is a brash, unapologetic celebration of hip-hop excess, showcasing the charisma and skill of each of the rappers involved and the production talents of DJ Khaled.
6. ‘Crew Love’ (2011) By: Drake
“Crew Love” is a moody, introspective hip-hop/R&B track by Canadian rapper and singer Drake, featuring guest vocals from R&B artist The Weeknd. The song features a minimalistic, atmospheric beat and a haunting, ethereal melody that creates a dreamy, otherworldly atmosphere. Through their lyrics, Drake and The Weeknd reflect on their close relationships with their friends and the bond they share as a “crew.” They also touch on the price of fame and the difficulty of maintaining relationships while pursuing success. The song is a soulful, introspective exploration of friendship, loyalty, and the sacrifices that come with success.
7. ‘Hold On, We’re Going Home’ feat Majid Jordan (2013) By: Drake
“Hold On, We’re Going Home” is a smooth, romantic R&B track by Canadian rapper and singer Drake, featuring guest vocals from the duo Majid Jordan. The song features a lush, retro-inspired production with a pulsing bassline, synths, and an infectious melody. Through his lyrics, Drake expresses his devotion to his lover and promises to protect her from harm. The chorus, with its catchy hook and sing-along quality, serves as a declaration of love and a celebration of their connection. The song is a heartfelt, sentimental tribute to love and commitment, showcasing Drake’s ability to convey emotion through his music.
8. ‘5am in Toronto’ (2013) By: Drake
“5am in Toronto” is a moody, introspective hip-hop track by Canadian rapper and singer Drake. The song features a dark, brooding beat and minimalistic production that creates a somber, introspective atmosphere. Through his lyrics, Drake reflects on his success and the challenges that come with fame, as well as his place in the rap game and his feelings of superiority over his competition. He also touches on his relationships with women and his personal struggles with trust and loyalty. The song is a raw, honest exploration of the complex emotions that come with success and the personal toll it can take.
9. ‘Too Much’ (2013) By: Drake
“Too Much” is a reflective, introspective hip-hop/R&B track by Canadian rapper and singer Drake, featuring guest vocals from British singer-songwriter Sampha. The song features a minimalist beat and haunting piano chords that create a somber, introspective atmosphere. Through his lyrics, Drake reflects on his relationship with his family and his struggle to balance his personal life with his success. He touches on themes of regret, anxiety, and the fear of disappointing those who love him. The chorus, with its poignant hook and emotive delivery, serves as a powerful lament on the toll that success can take on personal relationships. The song is a heartfelt, vulnerable exploration of the complexities of family and personal growth.
10. ‘Versace Remix’ (Migos feat Drake, 2013)
“Versace Remix” is a high-energy trap hip-hop track by Atlanta rap trio Migos, featuring a guest verse from Canadian rapper and singer Drake. The song features a driving, propulsive beat with a catchy, repetitive synth riff that creates a lively, danceable atmosphere. Through their lyrics, both Migos and Drake boast about their wealth, success, and luxurious lifestyle, referencing the Italian fashion brand Versace and the excess and opulence that it represents. The song is a brash, unapologetic celebration of hip-hop excess and materialism, showcasing the charisma and skill of each rapper involved and the infectious energy of the production.
11. ‘0 to 100/The Catch Up’ (2014) By: Drake
“0 to 100/The Catch Up” is an explosive hip-hop track by Canadian rapper and singer Drake. The song features two distinct sections, with “0 to 100” serving as a high-energy, braggadocious anthem, while “The Catch Up” is a more introspective and emotive section. The production features a driving, propulsive beat and a catchy, sing-along hook that celebrates Drake’s success and his ability to switch from a zero to a hundred quickly. Through his lyrics, Drake reflects on his journey to success and the challenges he’s faced along the way. The song is a powerful, introspective exploration of fame, success, and the personal toll they can take.
12. ‘Tuesday’ (ILOVEMAKKONEN feat Drake, 2014)
“Tuesday” is a laid-back, hypnotic R&B/hip-hop track by Atlanta-based rapper/singer ILOVEMAKKONEN, featuring a guest verse from Canadian rapper and singer Drake. The song features a minimalistic, atmospheric production with a dreamy, otherworldly melody and a pulsing bassline that creates a mellow, seductive atmosphere. Through their lyrics, ILOVEMAKKONEN and Drake celebrate the joys of partying and indulging in life’s pleasures, referencing their love for clubbing and the sense of freedom and release it brings. The song is a soulful, lighthearted tribute to hedonism and the joy of living in the moment, showcasing both artists’ ability to create infectious, earworm melodies.
13. ‘How About Now’ (2014) By: Drake
“How About Now” is a moody, introspective R&B/hip-hop track by Canadian rapper and singer Drake. The song features a soulful, atmospheric beat with a melancholic piano melody and sparse, minimalistic production that creates a pensive, reflective atmosphere. Through his lyrics, Drake reflects on a past relationship, expressing regret over his behavior and acknowledging the pain he’s caused his former partner. He also touches on themes of jealousy, trust, and communication, exploring the complexities of romantic relationships and the challenges of maintaining them. The song is a raw, honest reflection on love and loss, showcasing Drake’s ability to evoke emotion and introspection through his music.
14. ‘Best I Ever Had’ (2009) By: Drake
“Best I Ever Had” is a catchy, romantic R&B/hip-hop track by Canadian rapper and singer Drake. The song features a bouncy, infectious beat and a melodic, sing-along chorus that celebrates the beauty and allure of the singer’s love interest. Through his lyrics, Drake expresses his affection and admiration for his partner, referencing her physical and emotional qualities and the way she makes him feel. The song is a lighthearted, feel-good celebration of love and attraction, showcasing Drake’s ability to craft catchy hooks and memorable verses that resonate with audiences. It was a breakthrough hit for the artist, catapulting him to mainstream success and establishing him as a rising star in the hip-hop world.
15. ‘Worst Behaviour’ (2013)By: Drake
“Worst Behaviour” is a hard-hitting, aggressive hip-hop track by Canadian rapper and singer Drake. The song features a booming, bass-heavy beat with a menacing, ominous melody that creates a dark, intense atmosphere. Through his lyrics, Drake delivers an unapologetic, confrontational message to his critics and detractors, asserting his dominance and challenging anyone who doubts his abilities. He also touches on themes of loyalty, respect, and family, reflecting on his upbringing and the values that have shaped him as a person and artist. The song is a powerful, unflinching expression of confidence and strength, showcasing Drake’s ability to convey emotion and energy through his music.
16. ‘Think Good Thoughts’ (2009) By: Drake
“Think Good Thoughts” is an upbeat, positive hip-hop track by Canadian rapper and singer Drake. The song features a cheerful, soulful beat and a catchy, sing-along chorus that encourages listeners to stay optimistic and keep striving for success. Through his lyrics, Drake reflects on his own journey to success, emphasizing the importance of hard work, determination, and positive thinking. He also touches on themes of gratitude, friendship, and perseverance, expressing his appreciation for the people who have supported him and helped him along the way. The song is a motivational, inspiring anthem that encourages listeners to stay focused on their goals and never give up on their dreams.
17. ‘Cameras/Good Ones Go’ (2011) By: Drake
“Cameras/Good Ones Go” is a moody, introspective R&B/hip-hop track by Canadian rapper and singer Drake. The song features a dreamy, atmospheric beat with a slow, hypnotic melody and minimalistic production that creates a haunting, introspective atmosphere. Through his lyrics, Drake reflects on the ups and downs of his romantic relationships, exploring the complex emotions and conflicts that arise when passion and love collide. He also touches on themes of trust, communication, and vulnerability, expressing his doubts and fears about opening up to others. The song is a raw, emotional journey through the highs and lows of love, showcasing Drake’s ability to convey complex emotions and experiences through his music.
18. ‘The Search’ (2009) By: Drake
“The Search” is a introspective, introspective hip-hop track by Canadian rapper and singer Drake. The song features a melancholic, soulful beat with a contemplative, reflective melody that sets the tone for the introspective lyrics. Through his verses, Drake explores the pressures and struggles of fame, commenting on the struggles he faces in his personal and professional life as he tries to balance his ambitions with his sense of self. He also touches on themes of identity, self-reflection, and authenticity, expressing his desire to find meaning and purpose in his art and his life. The song is a thoughtful, meditative reflection on the complexities of success and the price of chasing one’s dreams.
19. ‘Headlines’ (2011) By: Drake
“Headlines” is an energetic, anthemic hip-hop track by Canadian rapper and singer Drake. The song features a bold, uptempo beat with a catchy, sing-along chorus that showcases Drake’s confidence and swagger. Through his verses, Drake reflects on his own journey to success, emphasizing the hard work and dedication required to achieve his dreams. He also touches on themes of loyalty, ambition, and self-assurance, expressing his confidence in his own abilities and his determination to rise to the top. The song is a triumphant, empowering anthem that celebrates the joys and challenges of the journey to success.
20. ‘6 God’ (2015) By: Drake
“6 God” is a hard-hitting, trap-influenced hip-hop track by Canadian rapper and singer Drake. The song features a dark, menacing beat with a minimalist, yet memorable melody that sets the tone for Drake’s aggressive verses. Through his lyrics, Drake boasts about his rise to fame and success, emphasizing his grit, determination, and ruthless ambition. He also touches on themes of loyalty, trust, and betrayal, expressing his distrust for those who he feels have turned their backs on him. The song is a gritty, unapologetic declaration of power and dominance, showcasing Drake’s ability to command attention and respect with his words and his flow.
Simon Robinson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
