Drake, who already has dazzles early on in 2018, returns with another impressive single, “Nice for What,” which masterfully samples late 90s Lauryn Hill.  

As “God’s Plan” continues to dominate the Billboard Hot 100, Drake returns with another new single, “Nice for What.” “Nice for What” opens with a bombastic introduction sample, before brilliantly sampling the beloved, Lauryn Hill classic, “Ex-Factor”, sigh. All in all, the producers do a superb job of using the sample, speeding it up, yet retaining its original glory. An excellent, old-school, hip-hop soul beat anchors down “Nice for What.”

Drake drops an excellent, rhythmic flow. At times, he’s more pop-rap oriented, while at others he serves up unpitched rhymes.  The end results are good regardless – he sounds reinvigorated for sure. Musically, he makes good choices, specifically the use of space that allows the sampled Hill’s vocals shine.  An interlude interrupts after the two-minute mark, before the sample, familiar production work returns.  With the return of “Ex-Factor,” excellent sounds effects –mostly indigenous to hip-hop of old – are weaved into the familiar.

Final Thoughts

It’s important to note that Drake has never been in a rut.  That said, Views and some of More Life didn’t find the rapper/singer at his best. If “Nice for What” is any indication, coupled with the likes of “God’s Plan” and “Diplomatic Immunity”, then the new album could be a juggernaut.

Drake • Nice for What– Single • Release: 4.6.18

Writers: Alan Bergman, Aubrey Graham, Chauncey Lamont Hawkins, Clifford Smith, Corey Woods, Dennis David Coles, Gary E. Grice, Jason S. Hunter, Lauryn N. Hill, Marilyn Bergman, Marvin Hamlisch, Orville Hall, Phillip Price, Robert F. Diggs, Russell T. Jones & Shane Lindstrom « Producers: Blaqnmild, Corey Litwin, Murda Beatz & Noah “40” Shebib

Photo Credits: Young Money / Cash Money