Hey guys! Let's dive into the world of Drake and explore some of his tracks that kick off with absolutely unforgettable intros. We're talking about those first few seconds that just grab you and set the tone for an incredible listening experience. So, buckle up as we break down some of Drake's best intros, highlighting what makes them so special and why they deserve a spot on your playlist.

What Makes a Great Intro?

Before we jump into the list, what exactly makes an intro great? A great intro does more than just start a song; it sets the mood, establishes the vibe, and hooks the listener from the get-go. Think of it as the opening scene of a movie – it needs to capture your attention and make you want to stick around for the rest of the ride.

A memorable intro often includes a combination of elements such as unique sound effects, captivating melodies, or impactful spoken words. The production quality, the layering of sounds, and the overall creativity all play a crucial role. It’s about creating a sonic landscape that immediately draws you in. Furthermore, a stellar intro often hints at the themes and emotions that the song will explore, preparing the listener for the lyrical and musical journey ahead. Whether it’s a slow, atmospheric build-up or an immediate burst of energy, the best intros leave a lasting impression and elevate the entire song. For instance, an intro might use a sample in an innovative way, blending it seamlessly with original production to create a distinctive sound. Or it could feature a brief but powerful vocal performance that showcases the artist's range and emotion. Ultimately, a top-tier intro is one that you can recognize instantly and that makes you excited to hear what’s coming next. In the context of Drake's music, his intros often include introspective monologues, lush instrumental arrangements, or clever samples that reflect his diverse influences and personal experiences. These elements combine to create intros that are not just beginnings but rather integral parts of his artistic expression. So, as we delve into some of Drake’s best intros, keep these elements in mind and consider how each one contributes to the overall impact of the song.

Top Drake Intros

1. "Over My Dead Body" (Take Care, 2011)

"Over My Dead Body" sets the tone for the entire "Take Care" album with its haunting and introspective intro. The piano melody is instantly captivating, creating a melancholic yet luxurious atmosphere. Then, Nicki Minaj's spoken word piece adds a layer of mystique and sets the stage for Drake's reflective verses. This intro isn't just music; it's an experience, pulling you into Drake's world of fame, relationships, and introspection right from the start. The juxtaposition of the delicate piano and Nicki's assertive tone creates a compelling contrast that perfectly encapsulates the album's themes. As the intro unfolds, it seamlessly transitions into Drake’s opening verse, making it feel like a natural continuation rather than a jarring shift. This seamlessness is a hallmark of Drake’s best intros, where each element flows together to create a cohesive and immersive listening experience. The lyrical content of Nicki's spoken word piece also adds depth to the intro, hinting at the complexities and challenges that lie ahead in the album. It's a bold and confident statement that establishes Drake as a major player in the music industry, while also acknowledging the support and influence of those around him. Overall, "Over My Dead Body" is a masterclass in intro composition, demonstrating how to create a lasting impression with a combination of evocative music and compelling spoken word.

2. " Tuscan Leather" (Nothing Was the Same, 2013)

"Tuscan Leather" clocks in at almost six minutes, and its intro is a journey in itself. The beat switches and tempo changes keep you on your toes, showcasing Drake's willingness to experiment and push boundaries. It's bold, it's ambitious, and it perfectly encapsulates the luxurious and reflective vibe of "Nothing Was the Same". The intro begins with a soulful sample that immediately grabs your attention, setting a contemplative mood that invites you to delve deeper into Drake’s thoughts and experiences. As the beat evolves, it incorporates elements of trap and R&B, creating a dynamic and engaging soundscape. This versatility is a key characteristic of Drake's production style, and it's on full display in "Tuscan Leather." The lyrical content of the intro is equally compelling, with Drake delivering introspective lines that touch on themes of success, fame, and personal growth. He reflects on his journey to the top and acknowledges the challenges and sacrifices that have come along the way. This vulnerability adds a layer of authenticity to the song, making it relatable and impactful. The extended length of the intro allows Drake to fully explore these themes, creating a sense of immersion that draws you into his world. The shifts in tempo and beat also mirror the twists and turns of his life, adding a sense of unpredictability and excitement. Overall, "Tuscan Leather" is a testament to Drake's artistic vision and his ability to create intros that are both captivating and thought-provoking. It’s a bold and ambitious start to an album that solidified his status as one of the leading voices in contemporary music.

3. "Keep the Family Close" (Views, 2016)

"Keep the Family Close" starts with a dramatic, almost cinematic intro. The orchestral elements and booming vocals create a sense of grandeur and importance, setting the stage for an album that's all about Toronto, relationships, and the complexities of fame. This intro feels like the opening scene of a movie, drawing you into Drake's world with its powerful and emotive sound. The use of orchestral arrangements adds a layer of sophistication and depth, elevating the song beyond typical hip-hop production. The booming vocals create a sense of urgency and importance, hinting at the high stakes and intense emotions that are to come. As the intro progresses, it builds in intensity, creating a sense of anticipation and excitement. This build-up is a key element of effective intro composition, drawing the listener in and preparing them for the lyrical and musical journey ahead. The themes of family and loyalty are also subtly introduced, setting the stage for an album that explores the complexities of relationships and the importance of staying true to your roots. The intro seamlessly transitions into Drake’s opening verse, making it feel like a natural continuation of the narrative. This seamlessness is a hallmark of Drake’s best intros, where each element flows together to create a cohesive and immersive listening experience. Overall, "Keep the Family Close" is a masterclass in creating a cinematic and emotionally resonant intro that sets the tone for the entire album. It’s a bold and ambitious start that showcases Drake’s ability to create music that is both epic and deeply personal.

4. "Survival" (Scorpion, 2018)

"Survival" kicks off "Scorpion" with a hard-hitting, no-nonsense intro. The raw energy and aggressive delivery immediately grab your attention, letting you know that Drake is here to address his critics and set the record straight. This intro is all about asserting dominance and establishing control, making it clear that Drake is not to be underestimated. The raw energy of the production creates a sense of urgency and intensity, drawing the listener in and preparing them for the lyrical onslaught to come. The aggressive delivery of Drake’s vocals adds to this sense of intensity, making it clear that he is not holding back. As the intro progresses, it builds in momentum, creating a sense of anticipation and excitement. This build-up is a key element of effective intro composition, drawing the listener in and preparing them for the lyrical and musical journey ahead. The themes of survival and resilience are also subtly introduced, setting the stage for an album that explores the challenges of fame and the importance of staying true to yourself. The intro seamlessly transitions into Drake’s opening verse, making it feel like a natural continuation of the narrative. This seamlessness is a hallmark of Drake’s best intros, where each element flows together to create a cohesive and immersive listening experience. Overall, "Survival" is a masterclass in creating a hard-hitting and assertive intro that sets the tone for the entire album. It’s a bold and confident start that showcases Drake’s ability to create music that is both aggressive and introspective.

5. "Champagne Poetry" (Certified Lover Boy, 2021)

"Champagne Poetry" opens with a sample of Masego's "Navajo," creating an ethereal and dreamy atmosphere. Drake's introspective lyrics and smooth delivery then glide over the beat, setting the stage for an album that's both vulnerable and confident. It’s a perfect blend of old and new, showcasing Drake's ability to incorporate diverse influences into his sound. The sample of Masego's "Navajo" adds a layer of sophistication and depth, elevating the song beyond typical hip-hop production. The ethereal and dreamy atmosphere creates a sense of calm and introspection, inviting the listener to delve deeper into Drake’s thoughts and emotions. As the intro progresses, it builds in intensity, creating a sense of anticipation and excitement. This build-up is a key element of effective intro composition, drawing the listener in and preparing them for the lyrical and musical journey ahead. The themes of love, loss, and reflection are also subtly introduced, setting the stage for an album that explores the complexities of relationships and the importance of personal growth. The intro seamlessly transitions into Drake’s opening verse, making it feel like a natural continuation of the narrative. This seamlessness is a hallmark of Drake’s best intros, where each element flows together to create a cohesive and immersive listening experience. Overall, "Champagne Poetry" is a masterclass in creating an ethereal and introspective intro that sets the tone for the entire album. It’s a bold and confident start that showcases Drake’s ability to create music that is both vulnerable and assertive.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – a look at some of Drake's songs with the best intros. These tracks prove that a great intro can make all the difference, setting the stage for an unforgettable listening experience. Whether it's through haunting melodies, spoken word, or bold production choices, Drake knows how to make a lasting first impression. Give these songs a listen and let me know what you think. Which intro is your favorite? Let's chat in the comments!