TLDR: The new Drake and PartyNextDoor album, $$$4U ($ome $exy $ongs 4 U), has broken Apple Music’s record for the biggest R&B/soul album by first-day streams worldwide after dropping on February 14, 2025.
Drake and PartyNextDoor are back, and this time, once again making history. Released on Friday, February 14, 2025, via OVO Sound, the duo’s long-awaited collaboration, $$$4U ($ome $exy $ongs 4 U), has officially shattered Apple Music’s record for the biggest R&B/soul album by first-day streams worldwide. Apple has yet to release their official numbers, but Billboard confirmed the achievement with article published yesterday.
The 21-track, 74-minute $$$4U marks Drake’s first full-length release since 2023’s For All the Dogs and PartyNextDoor’s first since 2024’s P4. But beyond just numbers, $$$4U is a statement—a luxurious, late-night soundtrack blending Drake’s signature vulnerability with Party’s smooth, atmospheric vocals.
The album opens with “CN Tower,” a homage to their Toronto roots, and features “Spider-Man Superman,” which samples Drake’s earlier work, “The Real Her.” “Raining in Houston” pays tribute to the city’s musical heritage, incorporating elements reminiscent of DJ Screw’s chopped-and-screwed style. However, it’s “Gimme a Hug” that has sparked the most buzz, with Drake seemingly taking aim at his ongoing feuds—most notably, his rivalry with Kendrick Lamar.
The cover art, featuring Drake and PartyNextDoor draped in fur coats in front of the Marilyn Monroe Towers in Mississauga, nods to their shared Canadian roots and the icy, late-night aesthetic of the music itself. The artwork has stirred its own controversy, as both Freddie Gibbs and fellow-Canadian John River have accused Drake and PND of stealing their ideas.
Adding to the buzz, Drake has been announced as the headliner for this year’s Wireless Festival in London. The festival, celebrating its 20th anniversary from July 11-13 at Finsbury Park, will feature Drake closing out all three nights with unique setlists and high-profile guest appearances. The opening night (July 11) will see him perform alongside PartyNextDoor and Summer Walker, while Saturday (July 12) will feature mystery guests currently dubbed as “The Mandem.” On Sunday (July 13), Drake will share the stage with Burna Boy and Vybz Kartel, marking his first U.K. performances in six years.
Listen to $$$4U ($ome $exy $ongs 4 U) now on Apple Music, Spotify, and other digital streaming platforms via OVO Sound.
