Jay Z stated once, “arapper isn’t businessman. He’s a guy who runs his own business”. Some may say that Drake is more of a musician than a businessman. Drake is a true entrepreneur, as he approaches problems or needs in an innovative, creative and original manner. Drake has no limits. He started a record company, created a bourbon brand, and then expanded his business to start a successful clothing line. Aubrey Drake Graham is a Canadian rapper and singer. He also has a background in songwriters, actors, and entrepreneurs. He began writing his first songs at only 10 years of age.
Drake became famous on the Canadian television series Degrassi. The producers of Degrassi decided in 2008 to delete Drake from the series. He was determined to achieve his goal of becoming a major star in entertainment, and released music constantly on music streaming websites. Drake was surprised to receive a phone from Lil Wayne in 2008. The founder of Young Money Entertainment asked Drake to be a part of the Carter III Tour. In 2009 Drake signed with Young Money Entertainment. It was the first step in his commercial career. In 2009, his EP “So Far Gone” reached the US charts at number 6. In 2010, he released his debut album titled ‘Thank me later’. He featured artists like Jay-Z and Alicia Keys. The album was a great showcase of his talent and what he’d been working on for the past couple years. It also gave a glimpse into the future. In 2011, his album “Take Care”, which is widely regarded as one of his most successful albums, was released. He also popularised the phrase YOLO in 2011. In 2013, his first Grammy was for best rapper album. He won two additional Grammys as well as 15 Billboard Music Awards.
OVO Sound started in 2012 following the success and popularity of Drake’s album ‘Nothing Was Still the Same’. OVO apparel was introduced in 2011 during Drake’s second OVO Fest. His clothing, which was initially only worn by his family and close friends, was then released in collaboration with Roots and sold at $500 each. It was available exclusively to selected retailers. This led him to open a flagship shop in Toronto. On his website, he sells out of everything all the time no matter the season. His merchandise is also not cheap. Drake’s goal was not to buy cheap fabric from Macy’s, sell it there and make millions. His plan was to represent high quality clothing that still has a good reputation. Virginia Black Whiskey, Drake’s first liquor venture, was a success. Drake was able to increase his wealth by investing in Brent Hocking’s bourbon. His goal was to be listed in Forbes Magazine.
Drake has demonstrated the traits and concepts that entrepreneurs understand throughout his career. Since he was ten years old, Drake had the dream of singing, acting and rapping. He did not stop pursuing his dreams and was committed to success, fame and wealth through his various ventures. Drake has been successful in many areas, including music, OVO Sound Records, OVO Brand Clothing, and his alcohol venture. Drake didn’t come from a wealthy family. He had work to do in order to become a successful musician. The timeline of Drake’s career looks like that of launching a new business. He had a private listening night and released an independent album in the early stages of his music career. Drake’s first self-released album was not received well by other musicians. Drake always put his all into making the album a hit, even if it meant taking big risks. Drake came to realize that his talent wasn’t being recognized on the international scale he desired. In order to overcome this problem, he decided he would broaden his scope. It was when Drake got signed to Young Money Entertainment that he realized his solution. This would fit into the second S model stage. Drake began his steady rise to fame while working under Young Money Entertainment. Drakes networth has now reached $100 million (Ahkter, 2018). He spends money to earn money, even though he claims he doesn’t need to.
Drake is a Canadian who has many entrepreneurial qualities. He continues to inspire people around the world and is a global phenomenon. He is able to achieve his dreams and continue to be rich by taking on risks. Through dedication, perseverance, and determination he continues to set records. Drake’s success was largely due to his successful strategies, but they only worked for Drake because his strategies were a direct result of the environment he grew up in. The only thing I would take from his method is his determination to be the best. His music, style and fashion have had an impact not only on the music world but on popular culture.
