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Drake, the internationally acclaimed rapper and music sensation, took to Instagram recently to share a voice memo that unveiled an intriguing aspect of his past. The Grammy Award-winning artist, who gained fame through his role as Jimmy Brooks on the Canadian teen drama series Degrassi: The Next Generation, revealed a surprising detail about his audition experience – he got high just before his life-changing audition.
In the voice memo, Drake, whose real name is Aubrey Graham, reflected on a recent question about his biggest fear, which led him into a deep thought spiral. Contemplating the surreal nature of life, he began to revisit his beginnings in the entertainment industry. He recalled a pivotal moment at 13 or 14 when he auditioned for Degrassi, a show that would ultimately shape his life.
Before the audition, Drake succumbed to peer pressure and got high with some kids at a friend’s house. This candid revelation raises questions in his mind about the significance of that day and whether his life and subsequent success could have turned out differently. He ponders the possibility that his entire journey may be a figment of his imagination or some elaborate dream, wondering if he is still trapped in that haze of getting high before his audition.
Drake admits that this concept has lingered in his thoughts for many years. While his life feels real and tangible to him, he occasionally questions whether it truly is. The fear of everything being “for nothing” and the idea that life could suddenly fade into darkness weighs on his mind.
Before his prominent music career took flight, Drake captivated audiences as Jimmy Brooks on Degrassi from 2001 to 2009. His character, a talented basketball player, faced a life-altering incident when he was shot by a classmate, leaving him paralyzed from the waist down. This pivotal role resonated with viewers and helped shape Drake’s trajectory in the entertainment industry.
Degrassi: The Next Generation, a long-running series spanning 14 seasons from 2001 to 2015, explored the challenges and struggles faced by the students of Degrassi Community School. The show tackled a wide range of issues, including relationships, friendships, disorders, addiction, gambling, pregnancy, and more. In 2018, Drake paid homage to his Degrassi roots by featuring his former castmates in the music video for his song “I’m Upset,” creating a heartwarming reunion that delighted fans.
Throughout his career, Drake has continued to reference his time on Degrassi. In 2021, he expressed his admiration for Cassie Steele’s recreation of her character’s iconic blue thong look from the show in a TikTok video. Drake’s comment on the post, acknowledging the significance of the outfit, further showcased his connection to his Degrassi days.
Drake’s candid reflection on his Degrassi beginnings offers a glimpse into the complexities of his journey. As he continues to dominate the music industry, his thoughts on that fateful audition day and the surreal nature of life provide a unique perspective on his rise to fame. While he may occasionally ponder the unknown, Drake’s impact on the music industry remains undeniably real and profound.
