Drake’s newest album More Life is the No. 1 album in America and according to Billboard set a new streaming record with 257,000 units in the first week. The “playlist” by October Firm seamlessly covers multiple genres in a little over 80 minutes and within the first few tracks it’s no surprise that this is an international project. Throughout the 22 songs you can hear bits and pieces of Atlanta, The Caribbean, Africa, and the United Kingdom. More Life demonstrates to listeners that these sounds are not as different as you may think and are actually connected on a deeper level. It is through the introduction of new voices, unheard to most, I am reminded that the we in the western church are missing something; influence from other cultures. 

I know most people don’t think of the Kingdom of God when they are listening to grime beats and trap music, but I firmly believe that we can take the good with the bad. There is no need to throw out the baby with the bath water, so to speak. I mean just look at the the title More Life, isn’t that exactly why Jesus said he came to earth, that we might have life, and have it more abundantly. I hold to the belief that the only way we can have more life is through relationships not only with God, but also all of his creation including those who are different than us, because when we really break it down we are one people, created in the image of God.

Now don’t get me wrong there is a lot said within the lyrics of More Life. One set of bars might support the basic Christian themes I believe are at the core of this album, where as another set of verses will contradict the overall Christian worldview I subscribe to. And it goes without saying that most of these song contain language people would consider offensive and counter to the life Jesus lived (17 of the 22 songs are labeled explicit). My response to that is I do not personally know anyone who worked on More Life and because of that I am unaware if the producers, lyricists, or rappers claim to know Christ. It is only those practicing the way of Jesus who are called to live a life above reproach.

I have no idea the temptation Drake must go through on a daily basis, but there is no doubt in mind that people are constantly throwing themselves at him just to get a taste of the good life. However in our toughest times we must remember to treat everyone with respect. I love what Drake has done by giving a platform for minority voices to be heard and understood but I feel there’s room to grow concerning women. I admit Drake is better than most concerning the topic of women within the rap community, but we can’t base his “success” on other’s failures. We must hold him to the same standard we hold everyone else. All people have ontological value and should be treated equally. Nonetheless I agree with his mother Sandi Graham and believe Drake’s tone has changed for the better. My hope is that Drake will have a positive effect on the world and that there will be more life. 

More Life.
More time with family and friends. More Life.
I’ve still got vibrations to send. More Life.
They say that we could live forever
At night I pray it’s true
I’ve done so much in my short time and still there’s more to do
But if someone should come collecting
Sooner than we’re all expecting
At least the life you lived was one for you
- Drake

In God's love,

- TC