Take Care by Drake

Take Care is the second studio album by Canadian rapper Drake. It was released on November 15, 2011, by Young Money Entertainment, Cash Money Records and Republic Records. Prior to the album, Drake released Thank Me Later, which experienced strong commercial success, but left him feeling disjointed about the album's musical content. Expressing a desire to reunite with 40, his long-time producer who featured in parts on Thank Me Later, the duo worked extensively on Take Care once recording sessions began in 2010. The album features guest appearances from The Weeknd, Rihanna, Kendrick Lamar, Birdman, Nicki Minaj, Pharrell Williams, Lil Wayne, and André 3000. Alongside prominent production from the album's executive producers Drake and 40, further contributors include T-Minus, Chantal Kreviazuk, Boi-1da, Illangelo, Jamie xx, Supa Dups, Just Blaze, Chase N. Cashe, and Doc McKinney. Take Care expands on the low-tempo, sensuous, and dark sonic aesthetic of Thank Me Later. It incorporates several elements that have come to define Drake's sound, including minimalist R&B influences, existential subject matter, and alternately sung and rapped vocals. It features a mixture of braggadocio and emotional lyrics, exploring themes of fame, romance, and wealth. The album also highlights other topics, such as Drake's relationships with friends and family, as well as touching on sex and narcissism. Despite leaking online nine days before its scheduled release, Take Care debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, selling 631,000 copies in its first week of sales. Many of the album's singles also saw notable commercial success, with "Headlines", "Make Me Proud", "The Motto", and "Take Care" peaking in the top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100. The album received positive reviews from critics, with praise directed towards its expansive production and emotional themes. It was also included on year-end lists by several publications as Album of the Year, while also winning Best Rap Album at the 55th Grammy Awards. Take Care is certified 6x Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), making it Drake's best-selling album in the US. It has been named as one of the best albums of the 2010s by several publications.