Drake recruits Winnie The Pooh for “Take Care”

Drake Finds Inspiration in Winnie the Pooh for Take Care

Drake is known for pushing boundaries in hip-hop. However, his latest source of inspiration has caught fans completely off guard. The Toronto rapper has revealed that his childhood love for Winnie the Pooh has played a significant role in shaping his upcoming sophomore album, Take Care. Yes, artists often pull from personal experiences. But, Drake is taking nostalgia to another level. As a result, incorporating themes from childhood classics into his music.

During a recent interview with DJ Semtex, Drake disclosed that while on his U.K. tour, he made an unexpected purchase—first editions of Charlotte’s Web and the first four Winnie the Pooh books. This investment, he claims cost as much as a small car. So, it underscores how deeply personal Take Care will be compared to his debut album.

A Nostalgic Creative Process

While Winnie the Pooh is far from conventional hip-hop inspiration, Drake insists that the beloved bear and his whimsical world hold significant meaning for him. “They were a huge part of my childhood,” Drake told DJ Semtex in a recent interview. “That’s my influence, man—Winnie the Pooh on this next album.”

Drake’s decision to incorporate these childhood influences stems from his desire to create a more thoughtful and well-crafted project. He has openly admitted that his debut album, Thank Me Later, felt rushed. Despite critical acclaim and strong sales, he expressed disappointment in not having had the time to fine-tune the project.

“Thank Me Later was a rushed album,” Drake explained. “I didn’t get to take the time that I wanted to on that record. I rushed a lot of the songs, and sonically, I didn’t get to sit with the record and say, ‘OK, maybe I should change this verse.’ Once it was done, it was done.”

Take Care – A Carefully Crafted Follow-Up

Determined not to make the same mistake twice, Drake has adopted a different approach for Take Care. The album’s title itself reflects his new philosophy—taking the time necessary to create an album he can be proud of. With an anticipated release later in 2011, Drake has promised fans a more refined sound. That means deepened lyricism, and a project that truly represents his artistic vision.

This new direction includes a diverse range of collaborators. While his Young Money family—Lil Wayne, Nicki Minaj, and others—are expected to feature on the album, Drake has also been working with Q-Tip and legendary producer 9th Wonder. These partnerships highlight his intent to explore different styles and influences, moving beyond the commercialized sound that defined Thank Me Later.

Unlikely Inspirations in Hip-Hop

Drake’s choice of inspiration isn’t the first time a hip-hop artist has drawn from unconventional sources. Kanye West has frequently incorporated high fashion and fine art into his brand. Pharrell Williams has been influenced by sci-fi and Japanese culture. However, an artist openly embracing a childhood book series—particularly one as innocent and non-hip-hop as Winnie the Pooh—is certainly unexpected.

Yet, Drake sees no contradiction in this approach. “Winnie the Pooh is like super not hip-hop,” he admitted. “But that doesn’t mean it can’t influence me.”

Fans may initially be puzzled by Drake’s enthusiasm for Winnie the Pooh, but it aligns with his introspective nature. The Toronto rapper has always stood apart for his willingness to embrace vulnerability, emotion, and storytelling, qualities that have endeared him to fans and set him apart from many of his peers.

A New Sound for a New Era

In addition to Winnie the Pooh, Take Care will also explore a more melodic and atmospheric sound. Producers like Boi-1da, 9th Wonder, and Noah “40” Shebib are expected to play significant roles in crafting the project’s unique aesthetic.

One of the main critiques of Thank Me Later was its reliance on polished, radio-friendly production. Drake has taken this feedback seriously, ensuring that Take Care leans into a sound that is both innovative and deeply personal.

“I want this album to be timeless,” he said. “I want it to be something people can listen to ten years from now and still feel connected to it.”

The Role of Literary Influence in Hip-Hop

Drake’s deep connection to books is something that isn’t widely discussed, but it plays a crucial role in his artistry. While Winnie the Pooh may seem like a humorous source of inspiration, literary influences have long shaped hip-hop. Nas, for example, has referenced everything from The Art of War to The Great Gatsby. Tupac Shakur was heavily influenced by political and philosophical texts.

Drake’s interest in Winnie the Pooh reflects a broader desire to create a warm, nostalgic, and emotionally resonant album. The innocence, simplicity, and wisdom embedded in A.A. Milne’s stories serve as a refreshing counterbalance to the often chaotic nature of fame and the pressures of the music industry.

What Fans Can Expect

Drake has been tight-lipped about specific details, but he has assured fans that Take Care will be a deeply personal record. The rapper is also taking his time with the rollout, ensuring that every element—from production to lyrics—is carefully curated.

Expected themes include:

• Self-reflection and nostalgia – looking back at childhood influences and their impact on his career.
• Growth and evolution – demonstrating how he has matured as an artist since Thank Me Later.
• Deeper musicality – incorporating a broader range of sounds and experimenting with storytelling techniques.

Drake’s Take Care era is shaping up to be a defining moment in his career. With a newfound focus on artistry and storytelling, he is setting the stage for an album that could stand the test of time.

Final Thoughts: A Bold Artistic Choice

As the hip-hop world anticipates Take Care, one thing is clear—Drake is not afraid to be different. Whether drawing inspiration from childhood books or redefining what a hip-hop album can sound like, he is committed to staying true to himself.

If Winnie the Pooh is what fuels his creativity, then so be it. If anything, it’s a testament to Drake’s ability to find artistry in unexpected places. As fans eagerly await the album’s release, one thing remains certain—Drake is taking his time, and he’s making sure that Take Care lives up to its name.