In a landmark moment that redefines modern music history, Canadian rap icon Drake has officially dethroned one of the most legendary bands of all time—The Beatles—on the Billboard 200, while simultaneously making history with an unprecedented 500 million RIAA-certified units across his musical catalog.
This monumental milestone, confirmed on April 8, 2025, has sent shockwaves through the entertainment world, reinforcing Drake’s status as not just a dominant force in hip-hop, but as an all-time global music legend.
Breaking Records: Drake Tops the Billboard 200 All-Time List
According to Chart Data, Drake has now amassed 3,348 cumulative weeks on the Billboard 200—surpassing the decades-long record held by The Beatles (3,311 weeks). Even fellow chart titan Taylor Swift, who also overtook the British band with 3,313 weeks, now trails behind the Toronto rapper.
Other notable artists rounding out the top performers include Eminem—the only other hip-hop artist within the top ten—with a remarkable 2,423 weeks, showcasing the elite echelon Drake now occupies.
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The Billboard 200 chart, which ranks the most popular albums in the United States based on multi-metric consumption (including streaming and sales), has long served as a benchmark for musical success. Surpassing The Beatles’ dominance, which stretched over generations, is no small feat—it’s a seismic cultural achievement.
RIAA Milestone: 500 Million Certified Units
In another groundbreaking announcement, the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) confirmed that Drake is now the first artist in history to surpass 500 million certified units across his extensive discography—including albums, singles, and collaborative projects.
This figure encompasses:
- 6 Diamond singles (10 million units each)
- Numerous multi-platinum hits
- A massive catalog of collaborations and solo works that continue to dominate airwaves and playlists worldwide
Among the diamond-certified tracks are some of the most iconic songs in recent memory:
- “God’s Plan”
- “One Dance”
- “Work” (with Rihanna)
- “Sicko Mode” (with Travis Scott)
- “Life Is Good” (with Future)
- “Hotline Bling”
Drake’s albums are equally impressive in their certifications:
- Take Care — 8x Platinum
- Views — 8x Platinum
- Scorpion — 7x Platinum
- Nothing Was the Same — 6x Platinum
- Certified Lover Boy — 4x Platinum
This incredible feat secures Drake’s reign as the highest-certified artist in RIAA history, a title he originally claimed in 2022 after overtaking Eminem.
“Nokia” Marks Drake’s Chart Comeback
While 2024 presented challenges for the rapper—most notably his public rap feud with Kendrick Lamar, which caused a dip in his chart performance—Drake is now staging a powerful comeback. His newest single, “Nokia,” has catapulted from No. 7 to No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking his highest-charting release in over two years.
The resurgence was largely powered by the release of an eye-catching music video, which went viral within hours, and a flood of fan support across TikTok, Instagram Reels, and Spotify playlists. The song’s bounce-back is reminiscent of Drake’s earlier era of domination—and proof that he still knows how to command the culture when it counts.
Previously debuting at No. 10, “Nokia” briefly fell out of the top ten before climbing again, underscoring Drake’s resilience and enduring relevance in a fast-paced, algorithm-driven music world.
Drake vs. Kendrick Lamar: A Rivalry Reignited?
Part of the recent media frenzy around Drake stems from his ongoing rap rivalry with Kendrick Lamar, which intensified in 2024. With Kendrick’s explosive single “Luther” featuring SZA holding the No. 1 spot for seven consecutive weeks, fans and critics alike are watching closely as the two hip-hop heavyweights battle for chart supremacy.
Although Drake has not responded directly in recent months, many speculate that “Nokia” contains veiled references to his West Coast rival. The competition between these two lyrical giants has re-energized the genre, reminding fans of the golden era of rap beefs that pushed artists to bring their best bars to the table.
Legacy in the Making: Why Drake’s Reign Matters
Drake’s influence stretches beyond just numbers. With over 100 billion Spotify streams, more than 80 top 10 Billboard Hot 100 hits, and a global fanbase that spans generations, Drake has become the blueprint for modern-day superstardom.
He seamlessly blends genres—pop, R&B, dancehall, afrobeat, and trap—creating a universal appeal that few artists in history have achieved. Beyond the music, Drake’s OVO brand, partnerships with Nike, and stake in Toronto nightlife and sports elevate him into mogul territory.
Critics and scholars often credit Drake with pioneering the “emo-rap” wave, popularizing vulnerability and melodic storytelling in a way that reshaped the sound of an entire generation.
Expert Analysis: What Sets Drake Apart?
According to music industry analysts, Drake’s success is not just talent-based—it’s strategic.
“Drake’s ability to reinvent himself while maintaining a connection with fans is unmatched,” says Jason Lipshutz, Billboard’s Senior Director of Music. “He knows how to dominate both the charts and the culture.”
Social media strategist Kimani W. adds: “Drake understands how to drop music that works in every format—radio, streaming, TikTok, YouTube. He doesn’t just release songs, he releases moments.”
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for The 6 God?
As Drake continues to defy industry norms, fans are left wondering: what’s next for the most decorated artist of his generation?
There’s talk of another studio album dropping before the end of 2025, possibly hinting at more genre experimentation and high-profile collaborations. Rumors suggest a joint tour with J. Cole or even a surprise reconciliation with Rihanna musically—something that would certainly break the internet.
Whatever comes next, it’s clear that Drake’s dominance is far from over.
Final Word: A Legend Still in His Prime
Drake’s dual achievement—surpassing The Beatles on the Billboard 200 and becoming the first to reach 500 million RIAA-certified units—represents more than just numbers. It’s a cultural moment. A celebration of endurance, adaptability, and the ability to evolve in an ever-changing entertainment landscape.
He’s not just chasing greatness anymore. He is the greatness.
