Say Drake: You Should “Go Away” for a While

From earning the biggest loss hip-hop has ever seen to releasing forgettable collaborations and, again, flooding the market with uninspired tracks, the 69 God should recalibrate and go away.

Drake has long been a central figure, celebrated for his versatility and commercial success. However, recent releases and associated controversies suggest a narrative of diminishing returns and questionable decisions that might prompt one to question whether Drake should, in fact, “go away” from the music scene for a while, especially since King Kendrick Lamar turned him into the biggest diss song in our lifetimes.

Drake’s latest tracks, including “SOD,” “No Face,” and “Circadian Rhythm,” have been met with a lukewarm reception unless you’re an OVHoe lover. While showcasing Drake’s signature melodic flow, these songs lack the innovation or emotional depth that once defined his work. The lyrical content often circles around familiar themes of wealth, relationships, subliminal shots, and personal introspection without the fresh perspective or compelling narrative that could elevate these tracks beyond mere repetition. While technically proficient, the musical quality feels formulaic, suggesting creative fatigue or an over-reliance on a tried-and-true formula that no longer captivates as it once did.

The phenomenon of Drake’s 100 Gigs drops weeks ago, where he released a flurry of tracks and behind-the-scenes videos in a short span, is an attempt to flood the market, ensuring relevance through sheer volume rather than quality, even though some can admit that “It’s Up” goes hard. While perhaps effective in maintaining visibility, this strategy dilutes the impact of individual releases. The casual fans and critics have pointed out the potential oversaturation, where the value of each track diminishes in the face of such prolific output. This approach risks devaluing Drake’s brand and suggests a desperation to stay relevant, overshadowing the careful curation that once marked his career.

The argument for Drake to “go away” isn’t merely about the music. It’s about the broader impact of his presence in the industry. The constant stream of content, coupled with controversies, might overshadow the genuine talent that Drake possesses. A strategic retreat could rebuild anticipation, allow for genuine artistic growth, and perhaps most importantly, give space for other voices in hip-hop to flourish without the overshadowing presence of Drake’s omnipotence.

One of the most criticized aspects of Drake’s recent activities is his association with Kick streamer Snoh, highlighted by a controversial livestream resurfaced last year where inappropriate behavior was displayed. This incident tarnished Drake’s image and raised questions about his judgment and the company he keeps. Such affiliations can significantly impact an artist’s public persona, especially when they involve behavior that contradicts the values many fans hold dear.

The rabbit hole provided by Twitter user EbonyPrince2K24, detailing Drake’s interactions and decisions around these controversies, adds weight to the critique. It illustrates a pattern where Drake’s decisions, whether in music or personal associations, seem to prioritize immediate gain over long-term integrity or artistic growth. This evidence supports the argument for a critical reevaluation of Drake’s current path and as a cautionary tale for artists navigating fame and influence.

While Drake’s contributions to music are undeniable, his recent activities suggest a need for reflection and perhaps a strategic withdrawal from the limelight since he lost the biggest beef in hip-hop. The critique here is about the broader impact of Drake’s choices on his legacy and the music industry at large. A hiatus could help the genre, allowing for a renaissance of sorts where new voices can emerge, and Drake himself might return with renewed vigor and vision (spoiler: he won’t listen). Until then, the call for Drake to “go away” isn’t about dismissal but about the hope for a more considered, impactful return.

But to his defense, every dog got to have its day; now, live in your purpose.

Happy National Dog Day.