Drake’s three-album release and commercial milestones give his supporters plenty to bring into the MVP debate.

Drake keeps giving people reasons to reconsider those “fell off” conversations. According to the shared Apple Music editorial, the platform has named him its Best Rapper of 2026, highlighting his three-album release weekend and the success of ICEMAN.

Drake has been working his ass off this year. He dropped ICEMAN, HABIBTI, and MAID OF HONOUR together, giving listeners hip-hop, R&B, and dance music in one shot. He later returned with HABIBTI (FOMO), keeping the momentum going with tracks like “Solar Eclipse” featuring Don Toliver.

The numbers have done plenty of talking. ICEMAN opened with 463,000 units, while the other two projects helped him occupy the entire Billboard 200 top three. That’s some ridiculous s**t, regardless of where you stand on his music.

He also became the first artist to surpass 350 million RIAA-certified units. “God’s Plan” reached Double Diamond, while Views, “In My Feelings,” and “Marvins Room” earned Diamond certifications.

In my very humble opinion, Drake is the MVP this year by a long shot. This is based on numbers, based on output, and based on how much ground he’s covered. It’s one of hip-hop’s best comeback stories ever, which I’m sure sounds silly since he’s been at the top of the mantle the whole time. My guys at Apple Music certainly got this one right.

Quincy

Quincy is the creator of Ratings Game Music. He loves writing about music, taking long walks on beaches, and spaghetti that fights him back.