Late rapper DMX once expressed strong disapproval of Drake, citing numerous issues, particularly Drake’s plans to produce a posthumous Aaliyah album in 2012. The album, intended to honor the R&B legend who tragically died in a 2001 plane crash, faced backlash from Aaliyah’s family and collaborators.
DMX, who worked closely with Aaliyah on Romeo Must Die and the song “Come Back in One Piece,” was outspoken about his dissatisfaction. “How do you do an Aaliyah album and not include anyone she worked with? What part of the game is that? How do you disregard what this beautiful angel did?” DMX said on MTV RapFix.
The project’s producer, Noah “40” Shebib, eventually scrapped the album due to the backlash, stating, “The world reacting to Drake’s involvement so negatively, I just wanted nothing to do with it.”
DMX’s disdain for Drake extended beyond the album. In a 2012 interview on The Breakfast Club, he criticized everything about Drake, from his voice to his walk, even saying, “I don’t like his haircut.”
However, by 2016, DMX softened his stance, admitting he once disliked Drake “for all the wrong reasons.” He praised Drake for reaching out to get permission to sample Ruff Ryders’ material for his Views album. “That was a real move,” DMX said, acknowledging Drake’s respect and humility.
Despite their rocky history, this moment demonstrated Drake’s willingness to bridge gaps and show respect for the legends who paved the way.
