Drake's Big Break: Lil Wayne's Protege Graduates From Degrassi to Hip-Hop

So Far Gone is the dark and sometimes moody narrative of Drake's journey into adulthood that's been powered by the upbeat "Best I Ever Had," where he not only raps on the track but sings on the song's chorus. The track has landed in regular rotation on Hot 97, Los Angeles' Power 106 and Philadelphia's the Beat, among other cities' stations. But it's the collection's triangulation of lady-endearing songs, gutsy displays of lyricism and the usurped hipster sounds of Peter Bjorn & John, Lykke Li and Santigold that have paved the way for Drake's 50 Cent-like ascension from fringe artist to bonafide star.

"It's just one of those moments in time, where the right person comes with the right music to the people," Bun B explains. "Everything is working in his favor. He's obviously very talented, I don't think anyone can dispute that."

As of press time Drake still remains unsigned. Rumors have swirled that he's set to join Lil Wayne at Universal Records. But industry insiders believe he'll eventually land at Atlantic Records where one of his managers is also an executive.

In any event, in the week since his SOB's performance, the rapper's buzz has again shot up yet another notch. Speculation has run rampant about his relationship with Rihanna after Page 6 reported the pair were spotted kissing at a Manhattan night spot; he's now in London with her working on her next album. He won't confirm who will be working with him on his album, although Wayne will executive produce and Drake has said he hopes Kanye West and Jay-Z would contribute.

For all the drama following Drake around these days, he's decidedly grounded. He jokes that he still has to overcome the three strikes against him — being an actor, light-skinned and Canadian. But his easygoing nature and articulate thoughtfulness conceal a silent confidence that just might hint that this whole mania thing could be a brewing pandemonium.

"I still have people who are finding out about me, who are still going through that process," Drake says. "And they may have to go back and discover a Comeback Season or a So Far Gone. I know the process they have to go through. But I know that eventually they're gonna love it, the music, so that's why I say, Thank Me Later."