Certified Lover Boy is the sixth studio album by Canadian rapper Drake, released on September 3, 2021. The album was highly anticipated and featured an array of guest appearances from some of the biggest names in the music industry. The title itself plays into Drake’s well-known persona of being both a rap star and a romantic, often blending themes of love, heartbreak, and success in his music. The album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 and broke multiple streaming records upon its release.
A key aspect of Certified Lover Boy is its star-studded list of features, which contributed to its widespread appeal. Artists like Jay-Z, Lil Wayne, Future, and Kid Cudi brought their unique styles to the project, enhancing the album’s dynamic sound. Rappers like 21 Savage, Lil Baby, and Lil Durk also played a major role, adding energy and versatility to tracks such as Knife Talk and Girls Want Girls. Additionally, Nigerian superstar Tems delivered a standout performance on Fountains, showcasing Drake’s ability to blend global sounds into his music.
These collaborations helped shape Certified Lover Boy into a massive success, reinforcing Drake’s status as one of the most influential artists in hip-hop. The album’s production, helmed by frequent collaborators like Noah “40” Shebib and Metro Boomin, also played a crucial role in crafting its signature sound. With its mix of introspective lyrics, braggadocious anthems, and smooth melodies, Certified Lover Boy lived up to the hype, proving that Drake’s star power and ability to bring together some of the industry’s best remain unmatched.
