Take Care

Verified Timeline

Lore & Background

The album expands on the low-tempo, sensuous, and dark sonic aesthetic of "Thank Me Later," incorporating minimalist R&B influences and existential subject matter. Production is primarily handled by Shebib, who contributes murky beats, dark synth layers, atmospheric keyboards, and muffled drums, though T-Minus, Boi-1da, Illangelo, Jamie xx, Just Blaze, and others also contributed. Drake's vocals feature emotional crooning, alto ranges, a guttural cadence, and a melodic flow with a larger emphasis on singing than his debut. The music blends braggadocio with lyrics about fame, romance, wealth, relationships with friends and family, sex, and narcissism. Critics noted the "late-night" vibe and 1990s R&B influence, comparing the mood to Kanye West's "808s & Heartbreak" while interpreting its subtle style as a rebuke to European dance influences.

In Their Own Story

In 2010, Drake began recording sessions in Toronto, expressing a desire not to rush like he did with "Thank Me Later," stating, "I get to take my time this go-round." He initially reached out to producers like 9th Wonder, Q-Tip, DJ Premier, and the Neptunes, but most fell through; 9th Wonder noted he was busy playing beats for A&Rs rather than the artist. Planned collaborations with Justin Timberlake also never happened on the album because Timberlake was immersed in acting, though they later worked together in 2013. The Weeknd revealed that half of his tracks for "House of Balloons" ended up on "Take Care," a claim Drake and Shebib disputed. Drake mentioned the album could have up to 18 songs and considered a "Birthday edition." Stevie Wonder contributed to the creative direction and is featured on the record, while Phonte of Little Brother had a track made that was cut due to producer issues.

Reader's Guide

"Take Care" debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 selling 631,000 copies in its first week despite leaking online nine days early. It has been certified diamond by the RIAA. Four singles peaked in the top 20: "Headlines," "Make Me Proud," "The Motto," and "Take Care." The album received critical acclaim for its expansive production and emotional themes, named one of the best albums of 2011 and later one of the best of the 2010s by several publications. It won Drake his first Grammy Award for Best Rap Album at the 2013 ceremony. In 2020, Rolling Stone ranked it 95th on their updated list of the 500 Greatest Albums of All Time.

Did You Know?

• Despite leaking nine days before its scheduled release, the album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200.
• The Weeknd claimed half of his "House of Balloons" tracks ended up on "Take Care," a statement disputed by Drake and producer 40.
• Drake initially recruited 9th Wonder for the album, but he was not included because he was busy playing beats for A&Rs rather than the artist himself.
• The title comes from Drake's desire to take his time on this record, unlike his rushed debut "Thank Me Later."
• Justin Timberlake recorded a song for the album but withdrew due to acting commitments; they later collaborated on "Cabaret" in 2013.