Drake re-signed with Universal Music Group in a deal said to be worth a whopping $400 million.
UMG’s chairman Sir Lucian Grainge has confirmed the God’s Plan rapper inked an ‘expansive, multi-faceted deal’ covering ‘recordings, publishing, merchandise and visual media projects’ during the firm’s latest earnings call
Variety reported that the deal was signed off in 2021, and a source told the publication it’s ‘Lebron-sized.
The 35-year-old hip-hop star – who has sold more than 37 million albums worldwide – had previously hinted at his riches from his deal in his lyrics.
On Lemon Pepper Freestyle from 2021’s ‘Scary Hours 2’ EP, he raps: ‘Three-sixty upfront, it all comes full circle,’ suggesting he landed a $360 million paycheck.
And on Migos’ Having Our Way, he spits: ‘Billionaires talk to me different when they see my pay stub from Lucian Grainge.’
Confirmation of Drake’s mega-money deal comes after The Weeknd – whose real name is Abel Tesfaye – agreed a similar deal.
Grainge said of the contract with the Save Your Tears hitmaker: ‘Over the past decade, we have been honoured to work so closely with Abel who has quickly become one of music’s most creative and important artists, a once-in-a-generation talent.
‘We’ve developed a deep trust and respect that has enabled us to successfully execute Abel’s brilliant vision.’
Monte Lipman, chairman of Republic Records, added: ‘Abel is the consummate 21st century artist and global superstar who continues to break down creative barriers with his genre-bending repertoire.
‘His success and career-defining accomplishments have made a historic impact around the world.’
Drake’s most recent album, 2021’s Certified Lover Boy, was released via his own imprint OVO Sound under license to Republic Records (owned by UMG).
