Drake’s giving fans a peek into how “Nokia” came to life – one of the standout tracks from his and PARTYNEXTDOOR’s chart-topping album $ome $exy $ongs 4 U.
The rapper posted a video to his @plottttwistttttt Finsta account on Sunday showing the early stages of producer Elkan creating the beat. Text on the clip mentions it was filmed in Freetown, Sierra Leone back in January. According to the album’s official credits, all the recording sessions with Drake and PND took place at Sanctuary Studios in the Bahamas.
Elkan had actually shared the same video earlier, confirming the track was indeed “made in Freetown, Sierra Leone.”
On the day $$$4U dropped, Elkan opened up about creating the “Nokia” beat “in the midst of a mental breakdown.” He explained that the song’s core concept came from people calling to check if he “was okay” and inviting him out during this tough time in his life.
“This record means a lot to me,” he shared.
$$$4U also features a stellar production lineup including DJ LEWIS, Room33, Ali Roots, GORDO, Kid Masterpiece, and others. The album keeps guest appearances minimal: Pin shows up on “Pimmie’s Dilemma,” Chino Pacas jumps on “Meet Your Padre,” and Yebba contributes to “Die Trying.” Elkan not only produced but also appears on “Nokia.”
With $$$4U hitting No. 1, Drake now ties Taylor Swift and Jay-Z for the most Billboard 200 chart-toppers by a solo artist. The Beatles still hold the all-time record with 19 No. 1 albums – a milestone no group or solo artist has managed to beat yet.
The album’s release lines up perfectly with Drake’s ongoing Anita Max Win Tour, which picks back up soon at Brisbane Entertainment Centre before heading to Sydney’s Qudos Bank Arena and finishing with two shows at Spark Arena in Auckland, New Zealand. Most of the tour buzz has focused on the sea of handwritten signs from fans visible in photos and videos from the concerts – with many asking Drake for money for everything from serious needs (like helping with a parent’s mortgage) to more lighthearted requests (cash to ease the sting of being cheated on).
