Image via Complex Original
Drake’s path to rap greatness didn’t happen the conventional way. With his first taste of fame coming as a teen actor on the Nickelodeon show Degrassi: The Next Generation, Aubrey had to overcome a number of stigmas in order to even be taken seriously in the rap game.
Refusing to conform to the industry standard, the Canadian MC paved his own road to success, and it didn’t take long before the rest of the world was along for the ride. After proving the naysayers wrong time and time again, Drake now has the most No. 1 hits in hip-hop history. Now, he is the industry standard and a perfect paragon of the phrase “Obey Your Thirst.”
This summer, Sprite has unveiled 16 limited edition collectible cans featuring iconic hip-hop lyrics from Drake, Biggie, Nas, and Rakim. While you crack open a cold can of inspiration, here are 16 life lessons we’ve ascertained from Drizzy’s music.
On Insight
Song: “0-100”
“Know yourself, know your worth.”
One of Sprite’s picks for Drizzy’s lyrical can, the line speaks of the Canadian rap star’s feelings on the importance of self-worth. Everyone should have a sense of it. Once you know the power that you contain, no one can sell you short.
On Portfolio Diversification
Song: “No Tellin’”
“I got it rolling in all kinds of ways, lump sum and residual.”
Combine what Aubrey said and what Dame Dash was trying to say and you have the building blocks for financial stability.
On Dedication
Song: “Successful”
“I want it all that’s why I strive for it.”
Identify lifelong goals and work hard to obtain them. Nothing is given.
On Growth
Song: “Started From the Bottom”
“Started from the bottom now we here.”
We all had to start somewhere. Beginning at ground level provides perspective on the rise to power.
On Experience
Song: “0-100”
“I’m the rookie and the vet.”
With a little over five years since the release of his debut album, Drake has surpassed the accomplishments of many of his successful peers while staying true himself.
On Respect
Song: “Over”
“Man, they treat me like a legend.”
Along with greatness comes homage.
On Focus
Song: “10 Bands”
“I been in the crib with the phones off/I been in house taking no calls/I done hit my stride got my sh*t going.”
Sometimes accomplishing goals means having to cut off all outside distractions and working your butt off.
On Progression
Song: “Tuscan Leather”
“On a mission trying to shift the culture.”
Making hit records is cool, but being known as someone who had a hand in altering the landscape of music has to be the ultimate compliment.
On Taking Initiative
Song: “No Tellin’”
“I ain’t got to do it, but f*** it somebody got to do it/Hate if someone else did it, f*** I may as well do it.”
Drizzy isn’t above going above the call of duty.
On Originality
Song: “Forever”
“Everybody got a deal, I did it without one.”
While people were scrambling for major backing, Aubrey chose his own path, deciding to build his brand up to star status before inking his name on the dotted line.
On Appreciating Life
Song: “The Motto”
“You only live once.”
Make the best out of life. It’s the only chance you have.
On Motivation
Song: “Headlines”
“I just had somebody tell me I fell off, ooh I needed that.”
A figurative kick in the rear end is at times all that’s needed to get back on track.
On Lending
Song: “All Me” f/ 2 Chainz and Big Sean
“I’ve been taught to never loan somebody what you need right back.”
Loaning money is a risky business.
On Reciprocity
Song: Big Sean “Blessings”
“It is what it is/Trust me, you get what you give.”
You don’t have to be a saint to know that treating people well can go a long way in life.
On Hindsight
Song: “Pound Cake”
“Tables, turn/Bridges burn/You live and you learn.”
Experience is one of life’s greatest teachers.
On Retirement
Song: “Too Much” f/ Sampha
“The moment I stop having fun with it, I’m done with it.”
One of the keys to maintaining a happy life is doing something you love.