“Her Loss” by Drake and 21 Savage left me wanting more of their 16-song album. Drake pairs well with 21 Savage in this redemption album, which I went into expecting the blandness from Drake’s other albums, like “Certified Lover Boy” and “Honestly, Nevermind,” but I was astounded by the result. 

It’s been a long four years since 21’s last album dropped. When 21 posted a video of him and Drake singing “Jimmy Cooks” on Instagram with the caption “10/28,” it left his audience wondering if an album was coming soon.

The album opens up with the song “Rich Flex” which gives the listener a one-on-one hook (“21, can you do sum’ for me”) then moves on to “Major Distribution” where Drake makes references to himself being one of the richest rappers of all time. Throughout the album, both artists make references to how easy it is to get someone out of your life when you have money. Drake and 21 are targeting the women who have wronged them and making them question whether it was “her loss” for losing a wealthy and successful rapper.

“Tell me, what did I do wrong?” is the opening line of the last song of the album, revealing why Drake and 21 wrote the album in the first place. Drake and 21’s shared experiences of heartbreak and manipulation made this album relatable to other people who have also experienced the same things as Drake 21 Savage. various lyrics in the album make reference to being used for money and sex in a relationship, revealing how female stereotypes about being used for their bodies can be used both ways. 

For the duration of the album, Drake fixates on the power women hold over him sexually and the power he has over them financially. This album is littered with lyrics about all the women who have deceived Drake and this album is a clap back at them. 

I was pleased with how the album changed drastically towards the end, moving from songs having a “let’s get up and dance” effect, to some making you dive into the lyrics and rewind. The songs start off strong with some original and raw rap, slowing down towards the second half and letting 21 tell the audience his feelings. The line, “What? What? Think my heart is bulletproof?” on the final song in the album lets this emotional rapper open up and show how he feels about getting heartbroken. 

In just an hour, Drake’s album was an eye-opener. I got to understand these rappers through their music rather than in an interview or social media post. 

I felt the absence of 21 in most songs where it sounded like he needed to contribute. This album did not feel like a collaboration, but more like a Drake album with 21 peeking in on some songs. The themes of love, enemies and fame are portrayed well by both rappers and I’m looking forward to watching their collaboration grow and expand in the future.