The month of August (2013) marks the 16th anniversary of XXL magazine, and Drake is the man of the month as he graces the cover of for their 150th issue. With his third album, Nothing Was the Same, set to drop next month on the 17th, he chatted with XXL’s Tom Golianopoulos about all things Drizzy; from the new LP, his non-hood background, even Amanda Bynes’ shocking Twitter confession regarding wanting (for lack of better words) *ahem* the D from the “Starting From the Bottom” rapper.
Speaking on the new album, Drake said with all the veterans are dropping discs this year, he wants to stand out. “I’m going to be like the kid waving in the background in the photo with all of his tall relatives,” he said about trying to fit in on this year’s hip-hop landscape. “I think I am going for it, to really establish what are murmurs or things being said quietly, “Um, I think that Drake might actually…” On September 17th I want people to be like, “Oh, we were right.”
Having taken a lot of flack for his sensitive rhymes at times, Drake said his image and background as an actor on the teen show “Degrassi: The Next Generation” actually helped his success. “If I was from somewhere in America and if I hadn’t been on a kids TV show, would I be as famous? Honestly, I don’t think so…And I haven’t become anything else while I’ve been in this position. It’s not like I got here and was like, “Oh, got to switch up my image. I feel like maybe a lot of these guys do. How old are you, really? What is your background, really?” he said, questioning other rapper’s authenticity.
He even addressed the famous tweets about him from actress Amanda Bynes; one day she’s calling him ugly and the next, she’s tweeting that she wants the rapper’s bedroom game in the most destructive way. But he thinks the person behind those tweets may not even be the troubled actress. “I don’t even know who that is doing that or what that’s about,” he said. “If that is her, I guess it’s a little weird and disturbing. It’s obviously a behavioral pattern that is way bigger than me. Whoever is behind it, whether it’s her or somebody else, they know people are paying attention so they keep it going.”
Get August’s issue of XXL on August 20.
You’re in for a treat as Drake graces the cover of XXL’s 150th issue. He opens up about his upcoming album, ‘Certified Lover Boy,’and how it differs from his previous works.
The Canadian rapper also talks about his image and how he navigates public scrutiny in the age of social media. And if that’s not enough, he even touches on those infamous Amanda Bynes tweets.
Drake takes us down memory lane as he reflects on his journey as an artist. From being discovered on MySpace to becoming one of the biggest names in hip-hop, Drake shares the highs and lows of his career.
He also discusses how he approaches collaborations with other artists and what sets him apart from others in the industry. With ‘Certified Lover Boy’set to drop soon, fans are eagerly anticipating what new sounds Drake brings to the table.
So sit back and enjoy this exclusive interview with one of rap’s most influential figures.
Reflecting on His Journey as an Artist
You’ve come a long way as an artist, haven’t you? From your early days as Jimmy Brooks on Degrassi to becoming one of the biggest names in hip hop, you’ve certainly made quite the journey.
In your XXL interview, you reflect on this path and how it’s shaped you as an artist. You talk about how your image has evolved over time, from being known primarily for your music to now having become a cultural icon in your own right. You credit this not only to your success but also to your willingness to take risks and be vulnerable with your fans. It’s clear that authenticity is important to you and something that has helped set you apart from other artists.
As you gear up for the release of your new album, Certified Lover Boy, it’s clear that this evolution continues. You speak about how the pandemic has changed things for everyone, but that it’s also given you time to really focus on the music and create something special. Fans are eager to see what comes next from one of hip hop’s most exciting voices.
Navigating Public Scrutiny in the Age of Social Media
Navigating the public eye in today’s world can be tough, but don’t let social media dictate your every move.
It’s easy to feel like you’re under a microscope when everything you say and do is subject to scrutiny on various online platforms. However, it’s important to remember that you have control over how much of yourself you share with the world.
It’s natural to want to present a certain image or persona, especially as a public figure. But it’s important to stay true to who you are and not let external pressures shape your identity. People are drawn to authenticity, so don’t be afraid to show your vulnerabilities and imperfections.
At the end of the day, staying true to yourself will earn more respect and admiration from fans than any carefully crafted facade ever could.
Of course, there will always be negative comments and criticisms thrown your way. It’s important not to take them personally or let them affect your self-worth. Remember that these opinions do not define you as a person or an artist.
Stay focused on creating meaningful work and connecting with those who appreciate it – they are the ones who matter most in the end.
Conclusion
So there you have it, Drake’s cover story for XXL’s 150th issue was nothing short of insightful. He opened up about his journey as an artist and how he’s navigating public scrutiny in the age of social media.
It’s clear that despite his massive success, he still faces challenges in maintaining his image and dealing with criticism. But through it all, Drake remains focused on creating great music and staying true to himself.
With a new album on the horizon, fans can expect more from the Toronto-born rapper in the near future. As he continues to evolve as an artist and person, it’ll be interesting to see where his journey takes him next.
