Drake is often used as a prime example for how struggling independent hip hop artists can succeed in the music business. In order for that to be the case, Drake’s path to success would have to be reasonably attainable by other artists who begin their careers in hip hop. But Drake’s path is not your typical success story.
1. Drake grew up wealthy. Having money doesn’t garuantee your success in the hip hop game but, it sure puts you a lot further ahead of the other runners on the starting block.
2. Drake was a TV star when he started dropping mixtapes. Drake not only appeared in a few films but he developed a healthy fanbase from his acting role on a popular teenage drama called Degrassi. He was on this show for 8 years and became a heartthrob to young girls who were fans of the series. That’s a major advantage.
3. Having Weezy cosign your shit. Drake’s mixtapes were buzzin big time because his fans were eating it up and I won’t neglect to mention that on top of that, the homie can spit. Well, such a high profile cat with a buzz is gonna catch the attention of some influential people in the industry sooner or later. Enter, Lil Wayne. Wayne was on fire and on top of the rap game at the time he appeared on one of Drake’s mixtapes and decided to mentor him. That right there is enough to send your status into outer space. This eventually led to a whole lotta record sales and a bidding war among labels. Drake eventually decided to sign with Wayne.
Just a reality check.
