For Kentucky-born rapper Jack Harlow, the blueprint for a successful career was often found in the discography of Drake. In a recent interview for Rolling Stone’s “My Life in 10 Songs” series, Harlow reflected on the pivotal moment he realized the magnitude of the Toronto superstar’s impact on the genre.
Harlow recalled the release of the 2015 project If You’re Reading This It’s Too Late as a turning point in his own musical journey. “I remember vividly this album coming out and being like, ‘Oh, Drake’s the best rapper alive.’ Yeah, it was powerful,” he shared. That specific project did more than just provide a soundtrack; it fundamentally shifted Harlow’s perspective on the possibilities within hip-hop.
The Art of Studio Precision
Beyond the music itself, Harlow has spent years studying how Drake operates within the studio environment. Their collaboration on the track “Churchill Downs” offered Harlow a front-row seat to the precision and work ethic that defines the veteran artist’s process.
“Watching him work. Not punching in. Delivering that whole way through. It’s just cool to see a rapper really be a rapper and not be some packaged thing that a team is putting together,” Harlow noted, emphasizing the authenticity that he believes sets the OVO founder apart from his peers.
“Watching him work. Not punching in. Delivering that whole way through. It’s just cool to see a rapper really be a rapper and not be some packaged thing that a team is putting together.”
Harlow also credited the “God’s Plan” rapper with teaching him the value of minimalism. He observed that many of the most impactful records in the genre are defined by their spaciousness—often relying on little more than a few well-placed instruments to carry the weight of the song. This philosophy has clearly permeated Harlow’s own work, including his hit single “Lovin On Me.”
Looking Toward the Future
As the industry turns its attention to the upcoming ICEMAN album, set to drop on May 15, speculation continues to swirl regarding potential features and the direction of the project. When asked about his anticipation for the release, Jack Harlow remained characteristically cryptic, stating, “I’m anticipating it with you.”
Whether or not he appears on the project, it is clear that the respect between the two artists remains a cornerstone of Harlow’s creative evolution. By continuing to refine his own craft through the lens of the lessons he learned from watching a master at work, Harlow remains a formidable force in modern rap.
