It’s finally here. Drake released his newest album, "Views," on April 29. Drake’s fourth studio album comes with catchy songs and killer collaborations—and who doesn’t love “Hotline Bling” by now?
But this album is much different than the lyrically catchy and dance-worthy songs that have pushed Drake to the top. This album is raw, soothing, and emotional. It’s as if Drake’s opened up his old diary and is singing it to us by the fireplace. "Views" is melodic and different than most popular rap music—it features his real (and completely engaging) emotions. These songs show Drake’s vulnerable side and are quite possibly the best songs he’s ever made.
1. "Keep the Family Close"
This song sets the tone for the whole album. It’s the first one featured and refers to a common nuisance—your ex. Drake demonstrates his raw lyrical talent and emotional reality in this song. The haunting tone coupled with Drake’s soft falsetto demonstrates his magical gift of music. This song is purely mesmerizing and will have you realizing, “all of my ‘let’s just be friends’ are friends I don’t have anymore."
2. “Weston Road Flows”
This song is Drake’s biggest shout out to life in Toronto. The beat is tranquil and melodic. Drake discusses how he grew up in the 6. This song demonstrates Drake’s work ethic—and lets us all know how much Toronto will always hold a special place in his heart.
3. "U With Me?”
This song is one of the few that really hits Drake’s ex’s hard. We can only dream about who he’s referring to—but “U With Me?” is a song where Drake questions his relationship status. The petty little arguments that he had with his mystery girl clearly got to him, and this song is Drake’s way of expressing his true feelings.
4.“With You” feat. PartyNextDoor
This song isn’t Drake’s first collaboration with PartyNextDoor—but it’s certainly a winner. The song has a faster beat than most on the album, but it’s still the work of Drake’s most tranquil album. He’s showing his sensitive side in a relatable and genuine way. The beat is steady, the vocals are soft, and we’re still left wondering—who is Drake referring to?
5. “Child’s Play”
This song is a quick change of pace in "Views." Drake, again, is dissing an unnamed ex—while confessing his love of Cheesecake Factory. This song will have you belting out all the words in less than a month. Drake is clearly done with the childish games that come with an unfaithful relationship—and he’s not afraid to turn his rage into a catchy song.
6. “Too Good” feat. Rihanna
This song has a sensual beat mixed with playful vocals—and who doesn’t love a good Rihanna and Drake collaboration? You can also cut the sexual tension with a knife. These two clearly realize the power of their lyrical talent—and together they are musical geniuses.
If your Drake obsession is real—you’ve probably heard these songs multiple times already. But to completely understand "Views," listening to the whole thing at once all the way through is essential. Drake’s showing us the side of him that is most relatable and real. He’s deviating from the rap music standard and letting his true emotional vulnerability shine beyond his brilliantly catchy lyrics. Drake is a real artist and "Views" shows how he’s grown from the 6 and earned his fame.
