Drake’s seventh studio album, “Honestly, Nevermind,” caused quite the disturbance following its release last week. While many were pleased with the surprise 14-track dance project, some critics weren’t too satisfied that the Canadian rapper deviated from his traditional rap bars and beats, including Irv Gotti. The veteran music executive didn’t mince his words when it came to his criticisms regarding the musical effort.
The Murder Inc. co-founder made time for TMZ while leaving Los Angeles International Airport on Tuesday, June 21, and he praised the four-time Grammy Award-winning entertainer. However, he didn’t shy away from expressing his concerns over the state of hip-hop following the “Falling Back” rapper’s recent genre change.
“Drake’s new album is not hip-hop,” Irv said, “and he can do whatever he wants. Let me stress that: Drake can do whatever he wants.” When asked if the last album drew any cause for concern regarding the $10 billion industry, Gotti, born Irving Domingo Lorenzo Jr., said, “I hope not,” before adding, “As long as I’m alive, it could never be a demise of the hip-hop. I gotta get back in the game and find me a n-gga then.”
Irv shared that the 6 God’s new sound inspired him to go out and “find me a raw new DMX, new Ja, new Jay, and serving n-ggas and f-ckin’ bringing back great hip-hop. That album is not hip-hop”
The 51-year-old shared sentiments argued by many on social media hours after Drake released a house-inspired musical venture. “And [Drake’s] so strong and so powerful he can change the dynamic of sh-t and any n-gga who sees this, please, hip-hop, yo…hip-hop has changed so many n-ggas lives that was in the hood that gave them an out, and Drake can do that.”
He continued, “I just wasn’t expecting a whole album of that sh-t…he’s too powerful and too strong, and it made me feel like we need another n-gga that’s as powerful and strong that’s gonna stay with this thing called hip-hop.”
Critics had their thoughts about Irv’s comments, many of whom called out the veteran industry figure for not being open to a new sound, including one Instagram user who wrote, “It’s crazy how folk won’t let artist venture out a certain area. Let them expand their craft.” Another person added, “It’s literally defined as ‘Dance’ on apple …. Ofc it wasn’t hip hop it wasn’t supposed to be.” A third user wrote, “No one gives af what Irv thinks. Sit this one out.”
“Be quiet n give Ashanti her masters,” quipped a fourth person. “Irv, you haven’t found anything in 20 years!!! Please go for a walk.”
