Drake is first artist to surpass 500 million RIAA certified units
Drake is having a standout year in 2025, and it’s only the beginning. The Grammy-winning rapper, singer, and entrepreneur is pushing boundaries with his music and achievements. From the successful release of his album $ome $exy $ongs 4 U with PartyNextDoor to breaking historical records, the Canadian artist is setting the bar higher than ever before.
In February, Drake dropped his highly anticipated collaborative album $ome $exy $ongs 4 U, a project that has already taken the world by storm. With 21 tracks, including the viral singles “Nokia” and “Gimmie A Hug,” the album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart. This massive success comes after a brief but high-energy Australian and New Zealand tour, further solidifying his influence on the global stage.
Yet, Drake’s accomplishments don’t stop there. According to Chart Data, the superstar rapper has reached an incredible milestone—he’s now the first artist in history to surpass 500 million RIAA certified units across albums, singles, and features. This achievement cements his position as one of the most influential figures in modern music.
Drake’s $ome $exy $ongs 4 U: A Game-Changing Album
Drake’s new collab albu with PartyNextDoor, $ome $exy $ongs 4 U, showcases his ever-evolving sound and continued relevance in the music industry. Released in February, the album blends various genres, from hip-hop to R&B, reflecting Drake’s versatility. Tracks like “Nokia” and “Gimmie A Hug” have quickly captured the attention of fans and critics alike.
The 21-song collection is a celebration of Drake’s unique style, with catchy hooks, innovative production, and personal lyrics. It also features collaborations with some of the biggest names in music, making it a must-listen for fans and industry insiders.
Debut at Number One
The album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, marking another major milestone in Drake’s already stellar career. The success of this release shows that the artist continues to dominate both the charts and the cultural conversation. With millions of streams, radio plays, and fan engagement, $ome $exy $ongs 4 U proves that Drake remains at the top of his game.
Chart-Topping Tracks
Among the standout tracks, “Nokia” has become a fan favorite, praised for its catchy rhythm and relatable lyrics. Meanwhile, “Gimmie A Hug” has sparked a new dance craze, adding yet another layer to Drake’s already impressive musical influence. These songs, alongside others on the album, showcase his ability to stay current while maintaining his signature sound.
Anita Max Win Tour: Bringing the Heat Down Under
Before the album’s release, Drake embarked on his brief but memorable Anita Max Win Tour across Australia and New Zealand. Fans flocked to arenas in major cities to catch the rapper live, where he delivered high-energy performances and treated the audience to a sneak peek of his new music.
The tour was a massive success, drawing huge crowds and reaffirming Drake’s global appeal. His ability to draw fans from across the world shows his broad reach, transcending geographical boundaries and dominating international charts.
Global Appeal
Drake’s international popularity is no surprise. From his early days in Toronto to becoming one of the biggest artists worldwide, his music resonates with fans across continents. Whether it’s in North America, Europe, or Down Under, Drake has consistently shown that his music is universally loved. The Anita Max Win Tour was just another example of his ability to connect with audiences all over the world.
500 Million RIAA Certified Units: A Record-Breaking Milestone
In addition to the success of his latest album and tour, Drake has achieved another incredible feat: he’s become the first artist in history to surpass 500 million RIAA certified units across albums, singles, and features. According to Chart Data, this achievement places him at the pinnacle of music history, surpassing even the most iconic figures in the industry.
RIAA Certification Explained
For those unfamiliar with the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), certification levels are awarded based on the number of units (albums, singles, or streams) an artist has sold. This includes physical copies, digital downloads, and streams. Surpassing 500 million units is no small feat, and it’s a testament to Drake’s immense popularity and staying power.
Breaking Records
Drake’s achievement is groundbreaking for several reasons. Not only has he become the first artist to reach this milestone, but he’s also done so at a pace that outshines many of his peers. In an era where streaming has become the dominant force in the music industry, Drake’s ability to achieve such numbers speaks to his cultural relevance and influence.
Drake’s Influence: Shaping the Sound of Modern Music
Drake’s impact on music goes beyond just numbers and chart positions. He’s shaped the sound of modern hip-hop and R&B, influencing a new generation of artists. His ability to blend rap with melody, mix different genres, and craft relatable, often introspective lyrics has set him apart from his contemporaries.
Pioneering a New Sound
Drake has been a pioneer in blending hip-hop with other musical styles, such as dancehall, Caribbean influences, and R&B. This versatility has allowed him to stay relevant and attract fans from diverse musical backgrounds. Whether he’s rapping on a track or singing with emotion, Drake always manages to evoke a strong emotional response from his listeners.
Collaborations with the Best
One of the reasons for Drake’s sustained success is his ability to collaborate with some of the biggest names in music. His features with artists like Rihanna, Future, and Lil Wayne have produced some of the most iconic songs of the last decade. These collaborations keep him at the forefront of the industry while showcasing his adaptability.
The Future of Drake: What’s Next?
As we move further into 2025, the future looks bright for Drake. With $ome $exy $ongs 4 U still dominating the charts and his milestone of surpassing 500 million RIAA certified units, Drake is far from slowing down. His ability to consistently reinvent himself and stay at the top of the music industry suggests that he has much more in store for his fans.
New Projects and Sound
Given Drake’s track record, it’s likely that he will continue to experiment with new sounds and push the boundaries of what’s possible in hip-hop and R&B. Fans are already speculating about future collaborations and projects that could further solidify his legacy in the music world.
Cultural Legacy
Drake’s influence extends beyond just music. His impact on fashion, social media, and pop culture is undeniable. Whether it’s his signature style, viral Instagram moments, or the way he shapes trends, Drake remains a force to be reckoned with in every area of entertainment.
Drake’s Unstoppable Legacy
Drake’s achievements in 2025 are just the latest chapter in his ongoing story of success. With the release of $ome $exy $ongs 4 U, a groundbreaking RIAA certification, and global tours that have captivated audiences worldwide, he shows no signs of slowing down. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to his music, it’s clear that Drake’s influence on the music industry is monumental.
As he continues to break records and redefine the sound of modern music, one thing is certain—Drake is not just a superstar; he’s a cultural icon who has left an indelible mark on the music world.
