Great White North

Drake—also known as Aubrey Drake Graham, Toronto’s finest export (sorry, maple syrup)—didn’t start off in music. No, he first graced our screens as Jimmy Brooks on *Degrassi: The Next Generation*. While his acting career got him some attention, it was always music that had his heart. So, like any self-respecting artist, he dropped his first mixtape, *Room for Improvement*, in 2006. Little did we know, this would mark the beginning of a musical journey that would go on to break records and set new standards.

Drake’s big break came with his 2009 mixtape *So Far Gone*, featuring the anthem "Best I Ever Had." That single hit harder than a late-night text to an ex, and before you knew it, Drake was signed to Lil Wayne’s Young Money Entertainment. From there, it was all uphill—albums like *Take Care*, *Views*, and *Scorpion* didn’t just top charts; they rewrote the playbook on rap and R&B. With lyrics that are deep enough to give you chills and a sound that defies genres, Drake became more than a rapper—he became a global music force, collecting Grammys along the way like they were candy.

But it’s not just about the music—Drake is a full-blown cultural phenomenon. With his OVO (October’s Very Own) brand, he’s taken over the worlds of fashion, music, and even festivals. From a kid in Toronto to a global icon, Drake’s journey is a reminder that talent, hustle, and a little bit of belief in yourself can take you pretty far. He’s not just a chart-topping artist; he’s a businessman, a brand, and a pioneer who's reshaping the music industry one hit at a time.