Drake's Real Name Revealed! The Story Behind Aubrey Graham

19 May, 2025

Ever wondered what secrets lie behind the stage names of our favorite artists? The story of Drake, the global music icon, is deeply intertwined with his given name, revealing layers of identity, heritage, and artistic choice.

Drake, the name synonymous with chart-topping hits and cultural influence, wasn't always the moniker he used. Born Aubrey Drake Graham on October 24, 1986, in Toronto, Canada, the artist initially chose to go by his middle name when he embarked on his music career. It’s a common practice for musicians, a way to craft an identity, a brand that resonates with their artistic vision. Aubrey, while a perfectly respectable name, perhaps didn't carry the same weight, the same edge, that "Drake" did. The single name is instantly recognizable, plastered across billboards and headlining music festivals worldwide.

Category	Information
Real Name	Aubrey Drake Graham
Stage Name	Drake
Date of Birth	October 24, 1986
Birth Place	Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Parents	Dennis Graham (musician), Sandi (Sher) Graham (educator)
Height	6 feet (183 cm)
Net Worth (as of 2023)	$280 million (estimated)
Occupation	Rapper, Singer, Songwriter, Record Producer, Actor, Entrepreneur
Aliases	Drizzy, Champagne Papi, 6 God
Associated Acts	OVO Sound
Website	drakerelated.com

The decision to embrace his middle name as his stage name proved to be a stroke of genius. "Drake" is now inextricably linked to the artist himself, a brand recognized globally. Even Klay Thompson, the NBA star, playfully acknowledged this connection when he trolled Drake by calling him "Aubrey" after a game, highlighting the almost separate identities of the man and the artist.

Drake's journey to fame wasn't an overnight success. He honed his craft, starting with acting roles, most notably as Jimmy Brooks on the Canadian teen drama "Degrassi: The Next Generation." This platform provided early exposure, but it was his musical talent and entrepreneurial drive that propelled him to superstardom. He established OVO Sound, a record label that has become a force in the industry, and ventured into fashion, whiskey, and fragrances, proving his business acumen extends far beyond the recording studio.

The origin of his famous rap name is straightforward: it's his middle name. But the impact of that choice is far-reaching. The name "Drake" carries a certain weight, an association with innovation, success, and cultural relevance. It's a name that commands attention and respect.

His full name, Aubrey Drake Graham, reveals more than just a label; it hints at his heritage. His father, Dennis Graham, is an African American musician from Memphis, Tennessee, while his mother, Sandi (Sher) Graham, is a Canadian educator. This multicultural background has undoubtedly shaped his perspective and contributed to the depth and complexity of his music.

Drake's family history also includes musical talent. His uncle, Larry Graham, was a bassist for Sly and the Family Stone, a band known for its groundbreaking funk and soul music. Another uncle, Mabon "Teenie" Hodges, was a guitarist and songwriter who penned hits like "Take Me to the River" and "Here I Am (Come and Take Me)" for soul singer Al Green. This rich musical heritage clearly influenced Drake's own path and his appreciation for different genres and styles.

Born and raised in Toronto, Drake's Canadian identity is also a significant aspect of his story. His upbringing in a multicultural environment likely played a role in his ability to connect with audiences from diverse backgrounds. He's often spoken about his love for his hometown, and he frequently incorporates Canadian slang and references into his music, further solidifying his connection to his roots. The Raptors even renamed their practice facility to the OVO Athletic Centre after Drake's brand on March 14, 2019.

Since 2001, Drake has gained remarkable success in the music industry, consistently releasing hit songs and staying relevant in a rapidly changing landscape. He remains a prominent figure, constantly adapting and innovating to maintain his position at the top. His album "Views," released in 2016, was initially exclusive to iTunes, demonstrating his influence and ability to command attention in the digital age.

Drake's real name, Aubrey Drake Graham, offers a glimpse into his personal side, reflecting his blend of African American and Jewish heritage. This unique mix has undoubtedly shaped his worldview and artistic expression, adding depth and nuance to his music. While "Drake" has become iconic, "Aubrey" adds a layer of relatability, reminding us that behind the superstar persona is a real person with a rich and complex background.

Known by various aliases, including Drizzy, Champagne Papi, and 6 God, Drake has cultivated a multifaceted persona that resonates with different audiences. His ability to blend singing and lyrical rapping, juxtaposing braggadocio with raw vulnerability, has earned him a large and devoted following.

Drake's journey from a young actor on "Degrassi" to a global music icon is a testament to his talent, hard work, and entrepreneurial spirit. He has not only achieved remarkable success in music but has also ventured into various business ventures, solidifying his position as a cultural and commercial force. Drake's real name is Aubrey Drake Graham. He was born on October 24, 1986, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

Drake, whose full name is Aubrey Drake Graham, is a Canadian rapper, singer, and songwriter. Drake stands at 6 feet (183 cm) tall. As of 2024, Drake is 37 years old. As of 2023, Drake's net worth is estimated to be $280 million. Drake's uncles are also part of the music business. His uncle Larry Graham was a bassist for Sly and the Family Stone, and his other uncle Mabon Teenie Hodges was a guitarist and songwriter who wrote hit songs such as "Take Me to the River" and "Here I Am (Come and Take Me)" for soul singer Al Green.

Here are a few recommendations to delve deeper into and appreciate the story behind Drake’s real name: Drake’s real name reflects his Canadian heritage. Embrace his multicultural background and explore how his upbringing in Toronto shaped his music and influenced his style.

Drake (musician) › parents. His trademark mixture of singing and lyrical rapping and of braggadocio juxtaposed with raw vulnerability won him a large following. Drake (real name Aubrey Graham) is a Canadian rapper, singer and actor who has won multiple Grammys and topped the Billboard charts.

Learn more about his career, discography, awards and latest news on Billboard. Learn about Drake, a Canadian rapper, singer, and actor who has sold over five million album copies. His real name is Aubrey Drake Graham and he was born in Toronto, Ontario in 1986. Drake is a Canadian rapper, singer, songwriter, record producer, actor, and entrepreneur.

Learn about his life, career, discography, and achievements on Genius. Drake (musician) › parents. Drakes real name is Aubrey Drake Graham. Drake’s real name, Aubrey Drake Graham, reveals a personal side. It’s a blend of his heritage, reflecting his African American and Jewish roots. This unique mix shaped his worldview and artistry, adding depth to his music. While the name Drake is iconic, Aubrey adds a layer of relatability.

Drake’s real name, Aubrey Drake Graham, reveals a personal side. It’s a blend of his heritage, reflecting his African American and Jewish roots. This unique mix shaped his worldview and artistry, adding depth to his music. While the name Drake is iconic, Aubrey adds a layer of relatability. Biography & real name Drake, whose full name is Aubrey Drake Graham, is a Canadian rapper, singer, and songwriter.

He was born on October 24, 1986, in Toronto, Ontario. Drake isn’t his real first name. Drake’s real name is Aubrey Drake Graham. Drake was born in Toronto, Ontario Canada on October 24, 1986. 19 famous artists you didn’t know were from Canada. How did Drake become famous? Drizzy, the boy, 6 god, champagne papi, october’s very own. Drake's real name is Aubrey Drake Graham. He was born on 24th October 1986 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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