Young Thug Thinks "Drake Level" Artists Can't Continue To Survive In Only Hip Hop

The YSL mogul determined that an artist of that caliber can only elevate if they turn to "pop or something else."

BYErika Marie
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Michael Loccisano / Staff / Getty Images, Kevin Winter / Staff / Getty Images

As fans prepare for the impending release of Certified Lover Boy, the direction of Drake's career has become a hot topic of conversation. YK Osiris argued that while Drake is one of the top music artists in the world, there are still people who don't know who the OVO mogul is. Charlamagne Tha God contested that the "Drake era" has come and gone, and Young Thug believes that once an artist elevates to Drake's level, Hip Hop may no longer be a profitable option.

Over the last 48 hours, Thugger's interview with the Million Dollaz Worth of Game podcast has caused points of controversy, particularly pertaining to his comments about Jay-Z's catalog. Elsewhere during the exchange, Young Thug said this about Drake: “I was talking to the youngins the other day...a Hip Hop artist you can only go so far.... Once you’re Drake level, there’s nothing else you could do. At this point, they’re waiting on you to fall down. It’s no next level unless you go pop or something else. So, I’m always focused on the next level.”

Thug and Chris Brown's Slime & B mixtape is dripping with R&B and pop influences, so he hasn't missed the mark with his goals. However, there is a debate over whether Thug has yet reached the "Drake level" he speaks of, or if there is still more work to do. You can check out the podcast interview below.


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About The Author
Erika Marie is a seasoned journalist, editor, and ghostwriter who works predominantly in the fields of music, spirituality, mental health advocacy, and social activism. The Los Angeles editor, storyteller, and activist has been involved in the behind-the-scenes workings of the entertainment industry for nearly two decades. E.M. attempts to write stories that are compelling while remaining informative and respectful. She's an advocate of lyrical witticism & the power of the pen. Favorites: Motown, New Jack Swing, '90s R&B, Hip Hop, Indie Rock, & Punk; Funk, Soul, Harlem Renaissance Jazz greats, and artists who innovate, not simply replicate.