Q-Tip gives Drake pointers for "Take Care"
Q-Tip Working with Drake on Take Care
Drake is closing out 2010 with a clear mission for the year ahead: crafting a classic sophomore album. After a breakout year with Thank Me Later, the Young Money standout is going back to his roots and pulling in some of hip-hop’s most revered veterans to shape his next project, Take Care. Among the legends lending their talent to Drake’s vision is none other than Q-Tip, the A Tribe Called Quest icon and production mastermind.
Q-Tip reveals that he has created a beat specifically for Take Care, and Drake has already laid down his vocals over the track. “He told me it’s incredible,” Tip shares, grinning. While he hasn’t yet heard the finished version, he seems confident Drake is making the most of the opportunity. “I’m going to take his word for it,” he laughs.
How Drake and Q-Tip Connected
The connection between Drake and Q-Tip formed earlier this year during Jay-Z and Eminem’s joint concert at Yankee Stadium. Introduced by a mutual friend backstage, the two clicked immediately. The mutual respect was strong, and a friendship quickly developed. Since then, Q-Tip has offered Drake pointers on everything from songwriting to career direction.
“He’s a good listener,” Tip says. “He wants to learn. That matters.”
Drake came into the game as a backpack rapper. That’s something he proudly mentions on Thank Me Later. However, the success of the album makes Drake the most commercially-viable backpack rapper in history. In addition, he incorporated other elements into his music. So, the addition of Q-Tip on his next album positions Drake for even more dominance.
Q-Tip’s Creative Vision and Mutual Respect
The collaboration comes at a time when Q-Tip himself is diving into one of his most ambitious creative periods yet. He’s planning his next solo album, The Last Zulu, a trilingual project that will feature English, French, and Spanish versions. The concept, according to Tip, is to pay homage to the global reach of hip-hop and honor his diverse fanbase. He’s already describing it as a return to “the big, anthemic breakbeat sound” of hip-hop’s earliest days.
Despite his packed schedule, Q-Tip made room for Drake because he believes in the young artist’s potential. “Drake’s got that thing,” he says. “He’s got his own voice, and he’s not afraid to use it.”
Veteran Producers Join Drake’s Vision for Take Care
And Drake isn’t stopping with Q-Tip. He’s working with DJ Premier and 9th Wonder, both known for their soulful, layered, and nostalgic soundscapes. Each of these producers represents a different era of hip-hop, and Drake wants Take Care to bridge those generations.
“This album is about moments,” Drake said recently. “I don’t want it to just be 14 tracks. I want interludes, transitions, conversations. It has to feel like something bigger.”
He also spoke about his plans with 9th Wonder, saying their collaboration isn’t just transactional—it’s a relationship. “I’ve probably seen more of 9th than my mom in the last three weeks,” Drake joked in an interview. “We’re building something that will last.”
Drake’s Evolving Sound and Storytelling Goals
Drake continues to work closely with his longtime collaborators, Noah “40” Shebib and Boi-1da, but these new partnerships are part of his evolution. His goal is clear: to deliver an album that connects with people on a deep level.
“I really want to write great life raps,” he explained. “I want to write for the people and speak for my generation.”
Part of that mission includes drawing wisdom from those who paved the way. Q-Tip’s guidance, both musically and professionally, gives Drake a deeper foundation as he shapes his sophomore project. The blend of experience and youthful energy may be just what Drake needs to push Take Care into the history books.
Looking Ahead: A Sophomore Album with a Legacy Blueprint
As 2010 comes to a close, Drake is focused and inspired. With input from legends like Q-Tip and a clear creative direction, Take Care is already shaping up to be one of the most anticipated albums of 2011.
He’s not afraid to take risks or switch things up stylistically. From working with experimental icons to seeking advice from some of the genre’s greats, Drake is positioning himself for long-term success. For Q-Tip, it’s a pleasure to see an artist of Drake’s generation so committed to honoring the culture.
He’s got the talent, the drive, and the humility, according to Q-Tip. In his opinion, he’s going to be here for a while.”
Drake echoes the sentiment. He often says he just want to make something that lasts. And with Q-Tip, DJ Premier, 9th Wonder, and his core team behind him, he’s well on his way to doing just that.
The Legacy of Guidance: From Q-Tip’s Era to Drake’s Future
Drake’s alliance with Q-Tip marks more than a moment—it marks a mentorship that spans generations. As Drake forges his path in hip-hop history, he’s doing so by tapping into the wisdom of those who’ve already helped shape the culture. And in doing so, he’s bridging the gap between classic and current, crafting a body of work that could very well redefine modern rap.
With Take Care, Drake isn’t just aiming to release another hit album—he’s aiming to create a defining work of art. And in choosing to surround himself with producers and mentors who bring both knowledge and authenticity, he’s proving that greatness is never achieved alone. Instead, it’s built on the foundation of trust, respect, and a willingness to listen. If Thank Me Later was an introduction, then Take Care is Drake’s first bold chapter. And Q-Tip, for his part, is proud to have helped write it.
On his debut album, Drake spoke on being inspired by the legends. Now, he has the many of the legends right here working on his second album. Then, with Drake being the face of Young Money, he represents the future. As a result, he will always have the inclusion of his label family in his music. But he also will incorporate the legends.