"Take Care" pushed back to November 15
Drake Pushes Take Care Album Back to Ensure Full Creative Vision
Aubrey Drake Graham, better known as Drake, is no stranger to the pressures of following up success. First, his platinum debut Thank Me Later cemented him as one of hip-hop’s brightest new stars. So, anticipation has reached a fever pitch for his sophomore album Take Care. Originally slated to drop on October 24, the album has now been officially pushed back to November 15.
The delay comes as Drake confronts unavoidable sample clearance issues, and rather than compromise his artistic intent, he has chosen to take the extra time needed to deliver the project as he envisioned.
“The new date for Take Care is November 15th, 2011,” Drake confirms on his official blog. “I managed to create this album in my hometown of Toronto and the thoughts and stories I wanted to get across just became so clear. It truly felt like when I was here 3 years ago making So Far Gone.”
Why Drake Chose to Postpone the Album
Rather than removing the problematic tracks to meet the original date, Drake made the deliberate choice to delay the release. It’s a decision that speaks volumes about his commitment to the music and to his fans. He had completed 19 tracks, with 17 for physical release and two bonuses, but faced roadblocks with three critical samples.
“My options were to take the songs off and make the birthday release happen or to take an extra couple weeks to get the paperwork right and give you the album the way I NEED you to hear it,” Drake explained. “The choice was clear as day for me.”
Take Care Reflects a More Focused, Confident Drake
This second project from the Toronto rapper has Drake operating from a space of clarity, self-awareness, and emotional depth. His time in Toronto, away from the whirlwind of touring and press, has provided space for reflection and reconnection.
“I got to reconnect with a lot of people I haven’t seen in years. It stirred up a lot of emotions that I probably wouldn’t have had if I’d been on the road,” he says. “This album is a genuine reflection of my life past and my life present.”
Drake has also gone on record saying Take Care is his best work to date, noting the growth in his lyricism and a richer sonic landscape compared to his earlier releases.
Building Anticipation: From “Headlines” to Album Art
Momentum for Take Care has been steadily building all summer. Drake’s official lead single, “Headlines,” premiered on his blog, October’s Very Own, on July 31 and was released to iTunes and radio in early August. Produced by longtime collaborators Boi-1da and Noah “40” Shebib, the track debuted at number 13 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming Drake’s second-highest debut.
Fans were also treated to a cinematic music video for “Headlines” earlier this month, shot entirely in Toronto. The visuals show Drake in a reflective mood, parading through his hometown, cigars in hand, surrounded by the OVO crew. It’s a clear nod to his roots and his growing dominance in hip-hop.
On September 23, Drake revealed the official album cover for Take Care, continuing the rollout that has become one of the most meticulously planned in the industry this year.
A Star-Studded Lineup of Collaborators
While Drake has not revealed the full tracklist yet, confirmed contributors to Take Care hint at a diverse and powerful roster. Returning to the creative chemistry that defined So Far Gone, Drake again collaborates with Noah “40” Shebib and Boi-1da. But he’s also expanded the circle to include The Neptunes, 9th Wonder, Jamie xx, and even Q-Tip.
Among the featured artists are heavy hitters like Rick Ross, Lil Wayne, Phonte, Stevie Wonder, and The Weeknd, the latter of whom has had a breakout year working alongside Drake.
Perhaps the most intriguing contribution comes from Stevie Wonder. He not only lent his talents vocally but also helped guide the creative direction of the album.
More Than Just a Date: Why November 15 Matters
While Drake initially wanted to release Take Care on his birthday, October 24, he now views the delay as an essential move to preserve the album’s integrity. The music simply means too much to him to be rushed. His message to fans is clear: patience will be rewarded.
“This music means too much to me to get attached to dates,” he says. “I do apologize for the delay, but I promise that it is only for the benefit of our experience together.”
Touring Plans Also Adjusted
As a result of the album’s pushback, Drake’s Club Paradise Tour is also being rescheduled. Initially slated to kick off around the album’s original release date, the tour will now begin after the holiday season. Drake says this change will allow him to reach more college campuses once students return from winter break. New dates are expected to be announced shortly.
Drake’s Evolution Since Thank Me Later
Drake’s debut Thank Me Later was widely successful but criticized by some for being rushed. Drake himself admits he felt numb during its creation.
“I didn’t get to take the time that I wanted to on that record,” he told Y.C Radio 1. “That’s why my new album is called Take Care because I get to take my time this go-round.”
That intention is evident in everything from the album’s rollout to its themes and production. While Thank Me Later established Drake as a household name, Take Care aims to cement his legacy as an artist.
What’s Next: Final Countdown to Take Care
With just over a month to go until its release, Take Care has become one of the most anticipated albums of the year. Between the early singles like “Marvin’s Room,” “Club Paradise,” and “Headlines,” Drake has already demonstrated that this album will be more than just a follow-up—it’s a full realization of his artistic identity.
As fans await November 15, the buzz only continues to grow. And with the Toronto native showing no signs of slowing down, one thing is certain: when Take Care finally drops, it will be well worth the wait.