Drake has officially secured his 14th No. 1 hit record on the Billboard 200 chart with his collaborative album, Some Sexy Songs 4 U, alongside PartyNextDoor, which dropped on Valentine's Day. The accomplishment marks another significant milestone for the Canadian rapper, who continues to dominate the music scene.
On the week ending last Thursday, the album managed to amass 287 million on-demand streams and 25,000 album sales, equaling 246,000 equivalent album units, as reported by Billboard's Luminate data. This latest achievement sees Drake tie with Taylor Swift and Jay-Z for the most No. 1 hit records in the 69-year history of the Billboard 200 chart. Only The Beatles have more, with 19 No. 1 records to their credit.
The latest twist in Drake's rivalry with Kendrick Lamar occurred when Lamar's sixth studio album, GNX, dropped to No. 3 after 13 weeks at the top. Over the last year, the two rappers have engaged in a brutal feud, with both releasing various diss tracks aimed at each other. Lamar's response to the feud includes five diss tracks, such as Like That and Meet the Grahams, making allegations about Drake's personal life.
Drake's competitive edge seems to stem from their complex relationship, which initially began on amicable terms. They collaborated on Drake's 2011 album Take Care, as well as Kendrick's track Poetic Justice. They even toured together during Drake's highly successful $42.6 million-grossing Club Paradise Tour.
Both rappers are set to hit the road again. Kendrick and SZA will launch their 39-date co-headlining Grand National Tour on April 19, which adds excitement to the competitive dynamic. Meanwhile, Drake is preparing for his own tour, the Anita Max Win Tour, which kicks off Monday and Tuesday at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre in Australia.
The 38-year-old rapper's success is particularly noteworthy following his prolonged feud with Lamar. Much of their rivalry was played out on platforms such as social media and the Billboard charts, with the release of multiple diss tracks. Back on November 25, things took another turn when Drake sued Universal Music Group. He alleged they used illegal methods to inflate the streaming numbers of Lamar's diss track, Not Like Us.
Through this tumultuous backdrop, Drake has managed to maintain his position at the pinnacle of the music industry, effortlessly securing his place as one of the most successful artists of his generation. This latest No. 1 record affirms his status and showcases his ability to adapt and thrive against the odds.
On the personal front, Drake is often recognized not just for his musical feats but also as the father of seven-year-old son Adonis Mahbed Graham. Adonis, who shares his mother, French painter Sophie Brussaux, is frequently mentioned by Drake as part of his inspiration.
Looking forward, fans eagerly anticipate both the new music and the tours scheduled for this year. With Drake's recent achievements and Kendrick Lamar's next venture, the hip-hop community is poised for another exciting chapter.
The upcoming Anita Max Win Tour will highlight Drake's successful ventures beyond the album charts, focusing on his ability to engage fans directly.