Artist Spotlight: Drake

Who would’ve thought that “Wheelchair Jimmy” from Degrassi: The Next Generation would become one of the most sought after rappers in the game today? Christened Aubrey Drake Graham, but professionally known as Drake, the 22 year-old is the total package; he can rap and he can sing, and yes ladies, he’s very easy on the eyes. Despite his reported fling with Rihanna, word is that he has a thing for the older ladies.

What is so special about Drake is that he managed to generate considerable buzz – without the aid of a record label, and had industry heavy hitters like Lil' Wayne, Kanye West and Jay-Z all vying for an opportunity to work with him. His hit single “Best I Ever Had” was arguably the best song of summer 2009. Between June and July, the track sold 600,000 digital downloads and topped three separate pop charts.

Currently signed to Lil Wayne’s management Hip Hop Since 1978, he was involved in major bidding wars with Universal Motown, Warner Music Group, and Atlantic Records. He eventually signed a lucrative record deal with Aspire/Young Money/Cash Money Records in June and took home a hefty $2 million advance.

Despite his mother being an educator, Drake never graduated from high school. However, he showed determination despite adversity from very early in his career, and perhaps that is the reason why he is as successful as he is today. With no backing whatsoever, he released his first mixtape back in 2006, appropriately titled “Room for improvement.” This was succeeded by his other mixtapes “Comeback Season” and “So Far Gone.” His debut album “Thank Me Later” is expected to be released next February.