Every year, the GRAMMY Awards stand as a pinnacle of musical achievement, and the rap categories often spark intense debate and excitement. As nominations for the upcoming ceremony are announced, conversations reignite around the accolades of hip-hop’s biggest names. Among these giants, Drake remains a central figure, both for his chart-topping hits and his complex relationship with the Recording Academy.
So, just how many Grammy Awards has Drake actually won? And how does this compare to his nominations and his outspoken views on the awards themselves? Let’s delve into Drake’s Grammy history, alongside a look at fellow rap icons Kendrick Lamar and Jay-Z, to put his achievements into perspective.
Drake’s Grammy Wins: Counting the Accolades
Drake has secured 5 Grammy Awards throughout his career, from an impressive 55 nominations. While this is a significant achievement, it’s a number that often surprises fans, especially considering his massive global success and consistent chart dominance.
His Grammy wins span several categories, showcasing his versatility within the rap genre and beyond. These wins include:
- Best Rap Album for Take Care in 2013. This was a landmark moment, recognizing the critical and commercial success of this iconic album.
- Best Rap Song for “God’s Plan” in 2019, a track that resonated globally and demonstrated his ability to blend introspective lyrics with mainstream appeal.
- Best Rap Performance for “Hotline Bling” in 2017, a song that became a cultural phenomenon and highlighted his innovative sound.
- Best Rap/Sung Performance twice, for “Hotline Bling” in 2017 and “HYFR (Hell Ya Fucking Right)” in 2013, further solidifying his crossover appeal.
Despite these wins, the conversation around Drake and the Grammys is often less about celebration and more about perceived snubs and his own critical perspective on the awards.
Drake’s Grammy Grievances: “Just the Opinion of a Group of People”
Drake’s relationship with the Grammy Awards is famously complex. He has attended the ceremony sporadically and has been candid about his skepticism regarding its relevance and fairness, particularly within the rap genre.
Famously, Drake once commented on social media, stating: “All you incredible artists remember this show isn’t the facts it’s just the opinion of a group of people who’s names are kept a secret.” This quote encapsulates his sentiment that the Grammys represent a subjective viewpoint rather than an objective measure of artistic merit.
His absence from the awards and his public comments have fueled discussions about the Grammys’ representation of rap music and whether they truly acknowledge the genre’s cultural impact and innovation.
Drake vs. Fellow Rap Titans: Grammy Wins Compared
To further understand Drake’s Grammy standing, it’s helpful to compare his wins to those of his contemporaries and predecessors:
- Jay-Z: Holds the title of the most Grammy-awarded rapper with an astounding 23 wins. His extensive career and consistent critical acclaim have translated into significant Grammy recognition.
- Kendrick Lamar: A critical darling known for his socially conscious and groundbreaking albums, Kendrick Lamar boasts 17 Grammy Awards. His work is frequently lauded by critics and the Recording Academy alike.
- Eminem: Another rap icon with a long history of Grammy success, Eminem has won 15 Grammy Awards, demonstrating the Academy’s recognition of his lyrical skill and impact on the genre.
Compared to these figures, Drake’s 5 Grammy wins might seem modest. However, it’s crucial to consider not just the number of wins, but also the context of nominations, the shifting landscape of the music industry, and Drake’s own perspective on award shows.
While Drake may not have the most Grammys in the rap game, his 5 wins are a testament to his influence and musical achievements. His ongoing dialogue about the Grammys also keeps important conversations alive about representation and recognition within the music industry.
