Drake reveals his vulnerability within “Certified Lover Boy”

On occasion, “Certified Lover Boy” is not your typical ‘Drake’ style. Sure, it follows similar beats and tones from his previous albums, including “Scorpion,” but this album feels more relaxed and personal. Entirely based on Drake’s thoughts and sensitivity. His music focuses on speaking his mind, and sharing his blunt thoughts. Drake had rewritten what is considered normal within his own music, by using and changing the dynamics of his rising pop platform. Drake refers to the lyrics “See you at the top” or “ I’m standing at the top”  many times, a reference to his dramatic climb up the music industry and personal goals influencing his songs.

“Certified Lover Boy” has a rich mix of R&B  and Hip-Hop, similar to Kanye West. West released his similarly long-awaited album “ Donda” only five days prior to Drake’s release. West and Drake have been competitive in the past, so this is no shocker for similarity. 

Throughout the album, Drake is sometimes quiet compared to his features artists. This is shown in “Yebba’s Heartbreak,” Drake is barley in this song, Yebba overpowers him. The absence of Drake in his own songs doesn’t necessarily take away from the music, but it definitely is unusual. But then again, sometimes unusual is good. Many songs within “Certified Lover Boy” open with sampling, such as “Way 2 Sexy” by Right Said Freds “I’m Too Sexy.”  Co-star Future’s intro makes the song comical and adds an extra flare. A contrast for most of the other tracks, as they tend to be heavy-hearted and a bit slow paced.

But the best song or most similar to his recent albums, is “Papi’s home”, one of the most energetic and vibey tracks on the album. The line “I apologize for my absence, I know I left you without an annual drop,” stitches the hearts of Drake fans. “Papi’s Home” also features what is assumed to be a clip of rapper and songwriter, Niki Minaj.

Now there are definitely songs to skip in this album. “Girls Want Girls,” and “Love All” are to name a few. The flow and lyrics of the track are almost messy and boring. “Girls want Girls” features lots of misogyny, and fetishes lesbians, something that negatively divides it from the rest of his album. 

Overall “Certified Lover Boy” was so-so.  There are obviously pros and cons; besides the rounded lyrics, and slowness, there is still the amazing songwriting and instrumental pieces that bring together Drake’s album. Drake continues to explore his past and future sound while showcasing his vulnerable side, and giving his fans a new album, as a token for his absence.