Hall of Influence is a spotlight where I talk about the legendary (to me) artists that have not only inspired me creatively but have tangibly shaped the way that I personally create music. You can see the entire hall of Influences HERE.

I have to say, this is spotlighting moreso Drake’s production credits and choices than I am necessarily speaking on his raps.

For over a decade Drake has consistently shown great diction when constructing the sonic language behind his music. 40, his staple producer, has an incredible ear and often contributes beautiful, ambient beats to Drake’s discography that I find myself drawn to. From top to bottom, most of Drake’s tracks slap where the beat is concerned, even if I can’t always relate to the lyrics. Like at all. Lmao. No shade.

“Whisper My Name” especially just has what I consider to be; one of the greatest beats I’ve ever heard in my life. Seriously. The switch-up at the end? Insane. One of his tracks [6GOD] from “If You’re Reading This…” literally sampled Donkey Kong Country from the SNES! (Which if you didn’t know, was composed by a mastermind named [David Wise] and that entire game’s score is insane. Check it out sometime.

I would be full of shit if I did not give credit where credit is due, Drake’s sound, his beats and his sonic selection is top tier. “If You’re Reading This” is one of the contributing factors that made me ever download FL to try and make beat because the production was so tight.

Favorite Project
If You’re Reading This It’s Too Late
Top 3 Tracks
Marvin’s Room
Janice STFU
STAYIN’ ALIVE

Musical Influence on Absynth 808

When we’re talking about beats, the list long. Ambient, subtle samples. Soul sampling. Moog synths. Rhodes piano beats. Just learning to mimic the composition of a commercial hip hop beat like his in general back when I was going hard selling beats alone counts for a ton of influence.

1 Deep Cut from Drake

This track is old. It came out on streaming services a year or two ago, but that was from “Care Package” which was a collection of his older work. Awesome and unique beat and flow and definitely on some Old Drake energy, which is my personal preference to his new shit.

These are just my thoughts and I wanted to share my perspective. I’ve got a lot more to share regarding my influences. Next week – LORN.

Signed // Absynth 808 // James Brice
11/2/2026 //

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