Classic Album: Views - Drake

Views, the fourth studio album by Drake, is a sprawling work of hip-hop and R&B that showcases the artist's impressive range and versatility. Released in 2016, the album marked a further shift in Drake's sound and image, with the rapper delivering a more introspective and melancholic album that reflects on his life, relationships, and place in the world.

The album's lead single, "One Dance," became an instant classic upon its release, with its catchy hook, danceable beat, and Drake's smooth vocals making it an instant hit. The track's infectious vibe sets the tone for the rest of the album, which is packed with hits like "Hotline Bling," "Controlla," and "Too Good."

Tracks like "U With Me?," "Keep the Family Close," and "Weston Road Flows" showcase Drake's songwriting abilities, with the rapper exploring themes of love, betrayal, and loyalty with a poignant and emotional touch. The album's production, courtesy of a host of A-list producers, is equally impressive, with intricate beats, lush instrumentation, and innovative use of samples and live instrumentation.

One of the most impressive aspects of Views is Drake's ability to create a cohesive and immersive sonic experience, blending his hip-hop roots with R&B, dancehall, and pop influences. The album is a nuanced portrayal of life as a successful artist, with Drake reflecting on his place in the world and his relationships with a sharp and insightful perspective.

Overall, Views is a groundbreaking work of hip-hop and R&B that solidified Drake's place as one of the most important and influential artists of the 2010s. The album's impressive songwriting, innovative production, and emotional resonance make it a must-listen for fans of hip-hop, R&B, and popular music.

Tracklist:

1. "Keep the Family Close"

2. "9"

3. "U With Me?"

4. "Feel No Ways"

5. "Hype"

6. "Weston Road Flows"

7. "Redemption"

8. "With You" (featuring PARTYNEXTDOOR)

9. "Faithful" (featuring Pimp C and dvsn)

10. "Still Here"

11. "Controlla"

12. "One Dance" (featuring WizKid and Kyla)

13. "Grammys" (featuring Future)

14. "Childs Play"

15. "Pop Style"

16. "Too Good" (featuring Rihanna)

17. "Summers Over Interlude"

18. "Fire & Desire"

19. "Views"

20. "Hotline Bling"

Release date: April 29, 2016

Classic Tv: Schitt's Creek

Schitt's Creek is a Canadian television sitcom that premiered in 2015 and ran for six seasons until 2020. Created by Eugene Levy and his son, Dan Levy, the show follows the story of the wealthy Rose family, who lose their fortune and are forced to live in a small town they bought as a joke, called Schitt's Creek.

Eugene Levy and his son, Dan Levy, served as the showrunners for Schitt's Creek, and the series featured a talented roster of writers, including Rupinder Gill and David West Read, among others. The show did not feature any prominent guest directors, but the Levys directed several episodes throughout the series.

One of the standout features of Schitt's Creek is its exceptional cast, led by Eugene Levy and Catherine O'Hara, who deliver hilarious and heartwarming performances as Johnny and Moira Rose, respectively. The show's supporting cast is also exceptional, with standout performances from Dan Levy and Annie Murphy, among others.

The show's writing is also exceptional, with a focus on character development and witty humor that is both clever and relatable. The show's use of heartwarming moments is also noteworthy, with moments that will make you laugh and cry.

Schitt's Creek has been praised for its exceptional performances, engrossing storytelling, and bold exploration of complex issues such as family dynamics and acceptance. The show has also been noted for its striking visual style, with bright and colorful visuals that perfectly complement the quirky nature of the show.

Overall, Schitt's Creek is a must-watch television series for anyone interested in comedy, family dramas, and heartwarming stories. With its talented cast and crew, engrossing storylines, and bold exploration of complex issues, Schitt's Creek stands as a standout example of contemporary television at its best. The series has received widespread critical acclaim and has become a cultural phenomenon, with a dedicated fan base that continues to grow even after the show's conclusion.

Classic Album: Nothing Was The Same - Drake

Nothing Was the Same, the third studio album by Drake, is a groundbreaking work of hip-hop and R&B that showcases the artist's impressive range and versatility. Released in 2013, the album marked a shift in Drake's sound and image, with the rapper delivering a more introspective and personal album.

The album's lead single, "Started from the Bottom," became an instant classic upon its release, with its catchy hook, infectious beat, and Drake's effortless flow making it an instant hit. The track's celebratory vibe sets the tone for the rest of the album, which is packed with hits like "Hold On, We're Going Home," "Worst Behavior," and "Pound Cake/Paris Morton Music 2."

Tracks like "Furthest Thing," "From Time" (featuring Jhene Aiko), and "Connect" showcase Drake's songwriting abilities, with the rapper exploring themes of love, loss, and betrayal with a poignant and emotional touch. The album's production, courtesy of a host of A-list producers, is equally impressive, with intricate beats, lush instrumentation, and innovative use of samples and live instrumentation.

One of the most impressive aspects of Nothing Was the Same is Drake's ability to blend his hip-hop roots with his R&B sensibilities, creating a sound that is both innovative and accessible. The album is a nuanced portrayal of life as a young and successful artist, with Drake exploring themes of fame, success, and relationships with a sharp and insightful perspective.

Overall, Nothing Was the Same is a groundbreaking work of hip-hop and R&B that solidified Drake's place as one of the most important and versatile artists of the 2010s. The album's impressive songwriting, innovative production, and social commentary make it a must-listen for fans of hip-hop, R&B, and popular music.

Tracklist:

1. "Tuscan Leather"

2. "Furthest Thing"

3. "Started from the Bottom"

4. "Wu-Tang Forever"

5. "Own It"

6. "Worst Behavior"

7. "From Time" (featuring Jhene Aiko)

8. "Hold On, We're Going Home" (featuring Majid Jordan)

9. "Connect"

10. "The Language"

11. "305 to My City" (featuring Detail)

12. "Too Much" (featuring Sampha)

13. "Pound Cake/Paris Morton Music 2" (featuring Jay-Z)

Release date: September 24, 2013