Drake 

In June 2010, Drake’s album Thank Me Later debuted at No. 1 one on the Billboard 200 chart, which made the young hip-hop artists next project a much-talked-of endeavor. It arrived in November as Take Care, a collection of studio-recorded tracks giving fans of the Canadian rapper more of what they liked: his lyrical strength and willingness to venture into the softer side of his genre. Never mind the reports of rapper feuds that are kicked around come awards season. Drake’s latest album includes collaborations with notables such as Noah Shebib, Andre 3000, Lil’ Wayne and Rihanna. In the past he’s worked with Kanye West, Eminem and Jay-Z. Listen as all the frustrations are worked out in the music. Drake plays Chesapeake Energy Arena on Feb. 28. Always a favorite with the critics, will the actor-turned-rapper/singer win over his Oklahoma City crowd? If he’s met the world’s expectations, everything indicates, “You bet!” www.chesapeakearena.com