Few icons in the hip-hop landscape have garnered as much international renown as Aubrey “Drake” Graham. The Toronto-bred star brilliantly bridged the gap between hip-hop, R&B, and pop to cultivate seismic waves in the music industry. Whether it’s the melodic “Passionfruit” or the rap-heavy “Knife Talk,” Drake’s vocal acrobatics and distinctive delivery never fail to leave an indelible mark. This Canadian lyricist’s artistry shines through in every track, making him an unstoppable behemoth in today’s music scene.
His discography contains notable tracks like “One Dance,” which blurred the lines between global dance music scene and rap; and “Headlines,” that reaffirmed his dominance in the rap game. Then you have passionate numbers like “Teenage Fever,” where he delves into love scenarios with a piercing honesty. Other times, he partners with hip-hop heavyweights like Lil Yachty, Travis Scott, and J. Cole to create sonic marvels like “Another Late Night,” “Fair Trade,” and “First Person Shooter.”
Tale-teller, hit-maker, and cultural influencer, Drake’s legacy is cemented in his ability to create music that resonates with audiences worldwide. But while his success is unquestionable, his music often feeds off controversy and introspection, making his tracks a subject of impassioned debates among fans. How does one sift through the hits to identify the real gems?
So let’s get into it, here are the Top 25 Drake Songs Ranked from Worst to Best.
25. Best I Ever Had
This undoubtedly put Drake on the map. Now look, this joint ain’t one of my personal top 10, but we can’t ignore its impact. The song dropped in ’09 as part of his “So Far Gone” mixtape. This was Drizzy’s first big commercial success, hitting number two on the Billboard Hot 100. The track showcased Aubrey’s smooth blend of rapping and singing, an approach that would later define his career. It’s a heartfelt joint, Drake delivering lines about a woman who got his back like no one else. Regardless of how you feel about Drizzy’s softer side, “Best I Ever Had” showed he was resolute in his artistry, unafraid to break from traditional masculine hip-hop narratives. And the game ain’t been the same since.
24. Amen (feat. Teezo Touchdown)
A track resonating with Drake’s well-known knack for blending mellow vibes with audacious assertions, it’s a collaboration that displays both Teezo Touchdown’s evocative singing and Drizzy’s undeniable lyrical prowess. Yet, it lacks the enduring punch of Drake’s upper-echelon anthems. The production is pristine, but it doesn’t push the boundaries in the way we’ve seen Drake do before. It serves its purpose as a solid cut on an album, and although it knocks, it doesn’t quite shake the room. A worthy addition to Drake’s discography, but not one that will necessarily go down as a classic.
23. 8am in Charlotte
If you’ve been sleepin’ on this joint, it’s time to wake up. Laying down a strong claim with its striking instrumentals and tight lyrics, this track showcases Drake’s prowess as a wordsmith. The beat knocks but it’s Drake’s lyrical dexterity that makes this song stand out in his vast discography. He fires off bars like an automatic, spitting introspective lines that shed light on his own personal struggles and aspirations. It’s a testament to his versatility, proving he can hold it down on the introspective cuts just as well as the club bangers. “8am in Charlotte” is a deep dive into the mind of Drake, an exercise in self-reflection that truly hits the mark.
22. Headlines
The joint from Drake’s sophomore project, “Take Care”. When it dropped back in 2011, hip-hop heads were already tuned into the 6 God’s vibes, but “Headlines” leveled up the game. No doubt, this track was Drake’s foray into that hit-making territory. The essence of this joint is its introspective tone combined with a chart-topping hook – a formula that would become Drizzy’s signature. Produced by his homies, Boi-1da and Noah “40” Shebib, “Headlines” exemplified the polished and moody sound of the Toronto scene. Still, you gotta acknowledge that while lyrically Drake had more potent verses, none had the contagious energy this track brought. It might not be his rawest, but “Headlines” is where we saw Drake’s potential to dominate the charts.
21. Daylight
This joint right here shows how diverse Drake can get. Stripping back from his signature brooding vibes, he hops onto this track with a sunny disposition that’s as rare to spot as a good graf piece in a posh neighborhood. The beat carries a lightness, the rhymes are a lil’ more upbeat, it’s like watching Drake shed his winter coat. Yet, as always, there’s a certain undercurrent of melancholic realism. Homie’s not afraid to blend happiness with a hint of sorrow, a genius way of reminding us that even in the bright daylight, shadows lurk. He’s not just spinning rhymes here, he’s telling stories that reflect the complexities of real life. But hey, that’s Drake, mastering the art of melodic storytelling like no other.
20. Fear Of Heights
Drizzy out here doing his best high-wire act, navigating through his personal anxieties and career pressures. This joint’s somber ambiance complements Drake’s confessional lyrics about his insecurities, showing us a glimpse of the man beneath the stardom. On the real, though, can’t say this track’s one of his standout performances. It could use that signature Drake spark, you know? Like, those moments that leave you awe-struck, caught up in the vibe. Yet, “Fear of Heights” is quintessential Drake as it affirms his willingness to push boundaries of emotional vulnerability in hip-hop. Just goes to show even when he’s not at his best, Aubrey can still put out a solid track.
19. Rich Baby Daddy (feat. Sexyy Red & SZA)
Here featuring Sexyy Red and SZA. Now, this one gets the hip-hop heads bopping, no doubt. Drake’s got this knack for picking the right collabs, and this one’s no exception. The 6 God, Sexyy Red, and SZA? That’s a tantalizing trio. But let’s keep it a hundred: This ain’t your top tier Drake. The beat’s fire, the hook’s catchy, but it’s missing that lyrical depth we know Drizzy for. Props to SZA and Sexyy Red for adding some flavor, but even they can’t elevate it past mid-tier Drake. Worth a listen, but it ain’t hitting the summit of Mount Drizzy.
18. Wants and Needs (feat. Lil Baby)
Ayyo, you can’t discuss Drake’s discography without delving into the depths of “Wants and Needs” featuring Lil Baby. Dropped in 2021 as a part of the ‘Scary Hours 2’ EP, this joint is an exploration of the dichotomous struggle between worldly desires and spiritual needs. Drake steady navigating these waters with his signature introspective verses that’s packed with confessionals, while Lil Baby’s aggressive flow adds that much needed contrast. Production-wise, we come across a haunting trap beat that punctuates every bar. It may not be Drake’s most memorable, but “Wants and Needs” exemplifies how he ain’t afraid to question his own motives on wax. It landed at number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100, a testament to its commercial appeal despite its introspective theme. Major props to both artists for bringing that introspective heat.
17. Calling For You (feat. 21 Savage)
A gritty collaboration between Drake and Atlanta’s own 21 Savage. This track, which dropped in the 2020s, sees both artists on their A-game, dialing up the menace and bravado to reflect their heavy street credentials. Overflowing with vivid storytelling and hard-hitting punchlines, Drake and 21 Savage show an impeccable synergy that adds an extra layer of authenticity to the track. However, it doesn’t quite flip the script or break new ground in terms of sonic experimentation. Instead, it solidifies the tried-and-true hallmarks of both artists, serving as a testament to their status in the game.
16. Gently (feat. Bad Bunny)
No doubt a banger. This joint, right here, showcased Drake’s knack for international hip-hop fusion. Teaming up with Puerto Rican artist Bad Bunny, Drizzy swerved into the reggaeton lane, delivering verses in both English and Spanish. The switch-up wasn’t just a sweet surprise, it proved how versatile the man could be. Bad Bunny’s distinct Latin trap sound chopped it up smooth with Drake’s North American flow, proving that these two can cut across borders like a hot knife. Yet, it ain’t the dopest Drake record, it’s sort of like a side dish to a meal—you enjoy it, but it ain’t the main course. It sits comfortably in the middle of this list, a testament to Drake’s adaptability, but not quite his peak skill.
15. Spin Bout U
We’re stepping into that quintessential Drake territory. This joint right here, it’s Drizzy in his feelings, working that signature melodic flow over a sultry beat that’s got more twists and turns than a back-alley in The 6ix. Drake, ever the wordsmith, spinning tales ’bout love and heartache that just might have you staring out the window, contemplating life, love, and everything in between. Still, even when he’s deep in his feels, Drake’s always got that touch of swagger. In “Spin Bout U”, man demonstrates he’s more than just a rapper, but a real storyteller who knows how to bring emotion into his rhymes. It’s melancholy magic, no doubt.
14. Knife Talk (with 21 Savage ft. Project Pat)
This is where Drake’s affinity for Southern rap shines, connecting with 21 Savage and Project Pat. The track, reigning from Drake’s “Certified Lover Boy”, is all about that street ethos – no soft edges here. The signature dark, ominous production sets the stage for each artist to flex their storytelling chops. 21 Savage’s cold, menacing flow cuts through the beat like a hot blade; while Project Pat adds a layer of Memphis grit, bringing in that Three 6 Mafia legacy. Drake, though not steeped in the same background, holds his own, solidifying his chameleonic ability to blend in. Not the best in his catalogue, but a solid hit for sure.
13. Teenage Fever
The joint from Drake’s playlist project, “More Life” that had the game in a chokehold in 2017. Peppered with a melancholic sample from J Lo’s “If You Had My Love,” there’s a certain nostalgia to the track that harks back to heartbreaks of younger years. This one was a low-key banger, without all the bells and whistles of Drake’s usual chart toppers. Instead, it was back-to-basics with Drake’s signature introspective lyricism framed by a moody, R&B-infused backdrop. It didn’t need to scream for attention, it simply expressed raw emotion and showcased Drake’s knack for painting vivid images with his words. A potent reminder that the 6 God can spit bars and tug at heartstrings all in one fell swoop.
12. Virginia Beach
This ain’t just an ode to Drake’s love for coastal cities, but a testament to his lyrical prowess. Laying it down with smooth bars and melodious intensity, Aubrey blends the line between R&B and hip-hop, a signature play in his rulebook. “Virginia Beach” finds Drizzy reflecting on the dichotomies of fame and love, his struggles with relationships all entwined with artistic subtlety. In a genre riddled with braggadocio, our Canadian homeboy’s willingness to expose his vulnerabilities sets him apart. His lyrical content, draped over the polished production, reminds us of hip-hop’s ability to evoke emotions. Mark this track an integral part of the Drizzy chronicles. With each listen, you’re more likely to find yourself lost in the Drake narrative – the mark of a true hip-hop maestro.
11. First Person Shooter (feat. J. Cole)
Drake goes bar for bar with J. Cole, is a masterstroke that lands at number 9 on our ranking. It’s a veritable verbal joust, two hip-hop heavyweights swinging lyrical punches, each verse packed with potent prose. Drake’s introspective rhymes mesh well with J. Cole’s thoughtful lyricism, a pairing that’s pure poetry. The track’s production, atmospheric with cinematic undertones, underscores the raw narrative, captivating listeners with its dynamic ebb and flow. While it’s a standout, it doesn’t quite hit the heights of Drake’s best work, a testament to the 6 God’s extraordinary discography. Still, “First Person Shooter” shows Drizzy and Cole both at their finest, a collaboration for the books.
10. IDGAF (feat. Yeat)
A prime example of Drake’s adaptive prowess. Connecting with the zeitgeist, Drizzy links up with Yeat, an emerging figure who’s been staking his claim with his idiosyncratic flows and ad-libs. The song is a flex, a ballsy dismissal of the haters who have something to say about Drake’s continual reign. Our boy from the 6 isn’t shy about throwing some shade, and when he links with Yeat, the result is an anthem for the unbothered. Sure, some might argue that it hovers in safe territory for Drake’s repertoire, but others will appreciate the familiar bravado. Not his best, but definitely a track worth your ear’s attention.
9. Search & Rescue
With “Search & Rescue”, Drizzy continues his experimentation with R&B-infused hip-hop. This tune showcases the 6 God’s impeccable skill in creating intimate stories that resonate with listeners, lyrically weaving romantic escapades akin to navigating a tumultuous sea. The beat, mellower than your grandma’s Sunday gospel collection, hits you in the gut, and Drake’s emotive delivery turns it into a sonic mural of vulnerability. The track lacks the braggadocio of his club bangers or the bittersweet nostalgia of his deeper cuts, cementing its place right in the middle of the list. As far from a chart-topper as it might be, “Search & Rescue” proves Drake’s mastery in fusing genres and pushing hip-hop boundaries.
8. Fair Trade (with Travis Scott)
A sonic voyage that showcases the 6 God’s knack for profound introspection meshed with Travis Scott’s ambient trap aesthetics. Introduced by a melancholy sample from Charlotte Day Wilson’s “Mountains,” the track is all about Drake’s sacrifice of friendships in the pursuit of success, yet reaffirms his unshakeable self-belief. “Lost you to the game, I gotta hug that,” he spits with that classic Drizzy introspection. Yet, it’s the iconic La Flame who flips the script, adding that frosty Houston flavor to the mix, his darkly melodic flow an icy counterpoint to Drake’s heated verses. “Fair Trade” isn’t just a song, it’s a chess move in the artistry of hip-hop, showing how two giants coexist on the same plane, trading blows in a rap game where only the strongest narratives survive.
7. Jimmy Cooks (feat. 21 Savage)
An emblematic testament to Drake’s chameleonic ability to weave in and out of different hip-hop sub-genres. Here, he collaborates with 21 Savage, known for his menacing flow and chilling lyrics. The two artists join forces to create a dark, atmospheric track filled with trap beats, punctuated by Drake’s signature introspective musings and 21’s deadly serious delivery. However, it falls short of mastering the potent cocktail of their individual styles, hence its position on the list. Despite the slightly missed potential, it’s still a notable example of Drake’s willingness to collaborate and dive into different styles in his everlasting quest for hip-hop greatness.
6. Slime You Out (feat. SZA)
A perfect testament to Drake’s versatility. On this cut, Drizzy marries his rap prowess with an R&B sensibility, delivering a banger that’s as hard-hitting as it is smooth. SZA complements the track perfectly, anchoring the hook with her sultry vocals that don’t just ride the beat, they make it their own. Plus, the chemistry between the two is palpable; you can feel the joint creative energy seep out of every bar, making for a mesmerizing listen. From the storytelling to the delivery, this track is Drake in his prime, collaborating with one of the finest voices in contemporary R&B. A masterstroke. No doubt.
5. Rich Flex
A track where Drizzy proves his prowess in the world of lux life and lyrical flexing. This joint is a flashy exposition of material wealth and success, confidently exuding a sense of accomplishment that can only be claimed by the 6 God himself. But don’t get it twisted – the track ain’t all about flaunting benjamins and uptown whips. Drake also weaves in a narrative of personal growth and the hurdles he had to scale to reach the pinnacle. His flow is as polished as the Patek on his wrist, gliding effortlessly over the sumptuous instrumental. Yet, even with its high-octane delivery and top-notch production, “Rich Flex” doesn’t quite pierce the top tier of Drake’s discography. It’s a banger, no doubt, but somewhat lacks the emotional depth we’ve come to expect from Toronto’s finest.
4. Passionfruit
You remember when More Life dropped in 2017 and Drake flexed his dancehall influences? This was the joint that had everyone vibin’. Ol’ Drizzy continued his love affair with the Caribbean sound, and it was fire! He incorporated elements of deep house and pop music, creating a dancefloor anthem that strayed from his usual heavy beats. But let’s keep it a buck – this joint wasn’t just about moving your feet. It was also about the turbulence of long-distance relationships, showing that our boy can blend deep lyrical content with a catchy, danceable beat. Drake may have plenty of bangers under his belt, but “Passionfruit” remains a standout with its infectious groove and reflective messages.
3. One Dance
Aye, y’all remember “One Dance”? This joint was everywhere in 2016, even had your granny two-stepping at the family cookout. Combining dancehall vibes with UK funky elements and Afrobeat rhythms, Drizzy really tapped into the global pulse with this track. It’s the kind of record that transcends borders, making every listener feel like they’re a part of the 6ix squad. Kyla and Wizkid threw in their essence too, giving the track an authentic feel. Plus, “One Dance” was a chart topper, smashing records left and right. Drizzy showed he can deliver dancefloor anthems as well as emotional ballads, proving why he’s one of the most versatile and influential artists in this hip-hop game. No doubt, “One Dance” displayed Drake’s global appeal and musical evolution. It’s the epitome of a modern classic. The champagne papi did it big with this one.
2. God’s Plan
Blink and you’d miss it, but nestled right in the heart of Drake’s discography around the high tide mark is “God’s Plan”. This joint ain’t no fluke; it’s an audacious statement of Drake’s position in the game, a testament of his power to move both the streets and the Billboard charts. The track is like a sonic manifesto, with its catchy hooks and addictive beats echoing Drizzy’s pioneering meld of hip-hop and R&B that propelled him to the apex of the rap game. Yet, it’s also characterized by an ambivalent undertone, a reflection of Drake grappling with his fame, fortune, and a desire to build a lasting legacy. As a cultural artefact, “God’s Plan” is a testament to Drake’s indisputable mark on the hip-hop landscape.
1. Hotline Bling
The 2015 hit, not merely a chart-topper but a cultural phenomenon, intertwines melancholy with an irresistibly smooth beat, showcasing Drake’s adept ability to meld emotions and groove. The lyrical content, a poignant exploration of modern relationships and the digital communication era, is delivered with a voice that is simultaneously introspective and assertive. Drake’s melodic cadence, entwining vulnerability with a suave, almost nonchalant demeanor, becomes a vessel for the listener to navigate through the ebbing emotions of past connections and altered expectations. The track, while undeniably catchy, also serves as a canvas where Drake paints a picture of longing masked by a façade of emotional autonomy. “Hotline Bling” thus stands not only as a musical hit but as a testament to Drake’s ability to create art that is relatable, rhythmically entrancing, and emotionally resonant, solidifying his imprint in the annals of musical history.
