• Record Label: Island
  • Release Date: Sep 24, 2013
User Score
7.7

Generally favorable reviews- based on 558 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Negative: 57 out of 558
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  1. Sep 24, 2013
    10
    One of the best albums I've ever heard, period. Right up there with Take Care, if not surpassing it. Drake has really grown as a lyricist, singer, rapper and just overall artist. Nothing Was The Same is an instant classic.
  2. Sep 30, 2013
    10
    Drake is more confident than ever on his third album Nothing Was The Same. He uses his junior album to stake his claim as the "King of Hip Hop".
    The softer side of Drake was showcased less than in his previous projects (So Far Gone, Thank Me Later, Take Care), which may be the only weakness if there is one.
  3. Sep 26, 2013
    10
    I don't know if this is Drake best album or not, but is the best album of the year by far....

    I put a 9 in all songs, exept Own it, Worst behavior, Connect and 305 To My City who has 8's and 7's, it's so difficult to find a rap album to have all songs good, the last time i see something like that was good kid ma.a.a.d city, but i think this is better......
  4. Sep 24, 2013
    10
    This album is amazing, feels so different from Take Care, its a very cohesive album and tells like a story much like Take Care did but in a more shorter sense, using different sounds, and having a new atmosphere.
  5. Sep 25, 2013
    10
    Incredible album. Drake does it again. Production was amazing. Drake stepped up his bars. Easily the best album this year and will most likely down as a classic.
  6. Sep 24, 2013
    10
    this album is incredible and the replay value is off the chart. anyone who hates this album is because you hate the artist personally. if have ear for music you'll appreciate the album a lot. The way he blurs the line between r&b and rap is incredible. he definitely gets my vote for album of the year, he is like a great artist of this generation like lauryn hill. the production is amazingthis album is incredible and the replay value is off the chart. anyone who hates this album is because you hate the artist personally. if have ear for music you'll appreciate the album a lot. The way he blurs the line between r&b and rap is incredible. he definitely gets my vote for album of the year, he is like a great artist of this generation like lauryn hill. the production is amazing 40 and bo1da are amazing producer. great album. we 'll see if it's a classic in the coming years. Expand
  7. Sep 24, 2013
    10
    One of the best artist in the game!!! This albums beats sound amazing and are so smooth! Love every song in this album! This is a must get its worth it believe me GET IT!!!!!!!!!!!
  8. Sep 24, 2013
    10
    Drake at its finest, whether you were a fan or not this album would definitively blow you away. The music and lyrics are on point and Drake goes on by himself keeping guest rap verses to the minimum.
  9. Sep 24, 2013
    10
    RAOTY. wow.. just incredible album....................................................................................................................!
  10. Sep 24, 2013
    10
    Very good album overall. A whole range of songs touching on Drake's emotions and the production on the album was flawless. Lived up to all expectations I had.
  11. Sep 27, 2013
    10
    No one expected a classic mixtape, but So Far Gone was that and Drake blew up. He got signed to Young Money and in one year he released his debut. Thank Me Later was a very mainstream sounding album and it was criticized for not being as good as So Far Gone. Drake has expressed his dislike for Thank Me Later. Then Drake came out with Take Care, a deep and personal album and arguable hipNo one expected a classic mixtape, but So Far Gone was that and Drake blew up. He got signed to Young Money and in one year he released his debut. Thank Me Later was a very mainstream sounding album and it was criticized for not being as good as So Far Gone. Drake has expressed his dislike for Thank Me Later. Then Drake came out with Take Care, a deep and personal album and arguable hip hop classic. Drake connected with fans and critics on that one, the true successor to So Far Gone. Nothing Was the Same tops anything he has put out yet. Most of the album is not radio-friendly, and what is has already been released as a single. Drake shows his true lyrical capabilities on this album and his flow is unbeatable.

    I don't normally throw around classic, but Drake is a hardworking artist and So Far Gone and Take Care are already classics. They were quality albums, sold well, and changed hip hop for the better. Nothing Was the Same is definitely his best work to date. It may not be classic, but it is damn close to classic.
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  12. Sep 26, 2013
    10
    His best album to date. No filler at all. I give this a 10 and Take Care a 9.5. Both are classic imo. He definitely showed his evolution on this album.
  13. Oct 8, 2013
    10
    Without a doubt the best Drake album. At first, I can't say that I wasn't a little disappointed, but that had more to do with my expectations then the quality of the album. I, and I think others, want Drake to pass on the singing, and do a full out rap album. After 3 albums though, it's an idea that I was able to finally let go of, and that allowed me to enjoy the album much more.

    Once
    Without a doubt the best Drake album. At first, I can't say that I wasn't a little disappointed, but that had more to do with my expectations then the quality of the album. I, and I think others, want Drake to pass on the singing, and do a full out rap album. After 3 albums though, it's an idea that I was able to finally let go of, and that allowed me to enjoy the album much more.

    Once I embraced Drake's mission with this album, I began appreciating the work much more. 40 does a fantastic job on the production, and I'll say that it is the highlight of the album. The beats are consistent and compliment Drake's style brilliantly.

    Drake also does rap more on "NWTS" than on "Take Care" although, they can sometimes be hidden by the more melancholy beats on the album, making the album seem less like a typical hip-hop rap album.
    Overall, a fantastic album that without a doubt benefits from how closely Drake and 40 work together, and how well they compliment each other.
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  14. Sep 29, 2013
    10
    For the record, I usually don't buy albums but I had to purchase this one because I respect Drake for his honesty and how he keeps it 100..The album is great! Not too many artists is on his level. I must admit I like majority of the tracks on the album. Believe me! You will be happy you bought it.
  15. Sep 29, 2013
    10
    Not just the best album drake has made, but probably the best album of its genre in the last few years. Every song is beautifully put together and the album overall shines to show perfection. A truly great effort from drizzy, and somehow manages to be a better album than take care. I thought take care was so good that it would have been the peek of drakes career. A true masterpiece andNot just the best album drake has made, but probably the best album of its genre in the last few years. Every song is beautifully put together and the album overall shines to show perfection. A truly great effort from drizzy, and somehow manages to be a better album than take care. I thought take care was so good that it would have been the peek of drakes career. A true masterpiece and hopefully drake takes home another Grammy because he definitely deserves it. 10/10 from me Expand
  16. Oct 2, 2013
    10
    Not really a first-listen album...not even a second-listen album but once you allow NWTS to seep into your consciousness it engages unlike any other record has in a long time. Very atmospheric & layered once you get over the simplistic notions of some of the tracks. In this sense it almost feels like a illusionist's trick you think you've figured out the album then you listen to it againNot really a first-listen album...not even a second-listen album but once you allow NWTS to seep into your consciousness it engages unlike any other record has in a long time. Very atmospheric & layered once you get over the simplistic notions of some of the tracks. In this sense it almost feels like a illusionist's trick you think you've figured out the album then you listen to it again and it's morphed itself into something else entirely. I won't be able to convince anyone that straight up hates Drake & all that he represents because there's nothing that can alter ignorance but if you are on the fence about NWTS I strongly suggest you put aside any reservations towards the artist & just take in NWTS as a complete piece. You may feel yourself rewarded. Expand
  17. Oct 7, 2013
    10
    A truly complex album which gets better upon each listen. I wasn't fully sold on it at first...it didn't grab me like Take Care initially did but I find myself drawn to it more and more now. It has so many layers that each play through opens up new meanings and feelings. Potentially album of the year.
  18. Oct 11, 2013
    10
    Simply Drake at his best. I don't understand the hate around this guy. Some people really get angry that he is successful and making good music. Lol NWTS is a must buy.
  19. Oct 14, 2013
    10
    one of the best album have listen this year, easy listen replay value is great. drake's bars and melody is better than previous albums. the more time you give the more it grows on you
  20. Nov 3, 2013
    10
    Finally. Drake congrats on having the best rap album of the year. Drake is an artist I've always liked because he's clever. But this album is just great. This is drakes best album of the year. And this is one of the best of the year. This is an competitive year for rap. Macklemores the heist, Kanyes Yeezus, and we have the upcoming second part of Eminems Marshall mathers. And I thinkFinally. Drake congrats on having the best rap album of the year. Drake is an artist I've always liked because he's clever. But this album is just great. This is drakes best album of the year. And this is one of the best of the year. This is an competitive year for rap. Macklemores the heist, Kanyes Yeezus, and we have the upcoming second part of Eminems Marshall mathers. And I think nothing was the same is worthy to be the best rap album of the year for the Grammys. I think it deserves all the hype. With the first song Tuscan leather to the aggressive started from the bottom. To the fancy hold on we're going home. Every song has a meaning to them. Expand
  21. CLK
    Dec 12, 2013
    10
    Amazing song structure, personal lyrics and overall great album. Will help solidify him as a hip hop legend. Needs to stick to concept though.........
  22. Jun 4, 2014
    10
    Read my name! Yeahhhhh. Cuz we started from the bottom now we here, started from the bottom now my whole team here n****. Best album of Drake's by far.
  23. Sep 8, 2015
    10
    Nothing Was The Same is a continuation of the story of Drake. The rapper that has taken over the mainstream since his mixtape So Far Gone was released in 2009. The most impressive thing about this album is Drake’s ability to blend Rap with RnB so effortlessly. By doing this he almost creates a whole new genre of music.
  24. Mar 19, 2017
    10
    definitely a classic! you can listen to it over and over again, it is different from the typical rap album, something new and better. It has elements of love, turning up, real talk. it really touches the heart. Perfect!
  25. Apr 13, 2017
    10
    A very cohesive project that offers a bit of everything. The music is fantastic and interesting. The lyricism is great. The production is top-notch. A must listen to project.
  26. Jan 9, 2018
    10
    Drake's Magnum Opus. Drake shines at full strength on Nothing was the Same.
  27. Mar 6, 2019
    10
    For the haters who think Drake is lame, shame on you. Back in 2013 Drake's third Album, Nothing Was the Same is a great album. Drake continues to improve his bars and his flow even better. The Beats are straight up on fire, and the production is dope. I love the songs from the album. There are dope songs on the album that I enjoyed, like "Started from the Bottom," "Wu-Tang Forever," "TheFor the haters who think Drake is lame, shame on you. Back in 2013 Drake's third Album, Nothing Was the Same is a great album. Drake continues to improve his bars and his flow even better. The Beats are straight up on fire, and the production is dope. I love the songs from the album. There are dope songs on the album that I enjoyed, like "Started from the Bottom," "Wu-Tang Forever," "The Language," and his most popular song 'All Me ft 2 Chainz and Big Sean. And his sad songs like "From Time ft Jhene Aiko," and the last song on the album "Pound Cake / Paris Morton Music 2 ft Jay Z." But my favorite song on the album and my favorite from Drake has got to be "Hold On, We're Going Home ft Majid Jordan" I like the beat on the song, it definitely sounds catchy, and it remains as one of Drake's best songs of his career. Nothing Was the Same is a great album, and like his last album, this album is a must listen. I Highly recommend it. 10/10 Expand
  28. Apr 14, 2018
    10
    Best album Drake ever made, most of the songs are very catchy and after 5 years I still listen to this songs, just a classic at this point. Drake is one in million singer and we should appreciate that!
  29. Jan 10, 2020
    10
    Forever GOATed album that will go down as one of the best albums of the decade.
  30. Apr 8, 2020
    10
    this album is extremely underrated on here. if not take care, this is easily drakes most impressive project with some of his largest hits and i love this project forever
  31. Apr 28, 2020
    10
    a huge project from drake- his personal favorite. not in gargantuan size, but one to resonate with us for decades on decades. nothing will ever be the same.
  32. Feb 10, 2021
    10
    A truly flawless album. Every song feels perfectly crafted to formulate a seamless listening experience from start to finish. From the atmospheric beats, to the stellar flows, to the impeccable rhyme schemes, to the brilliantly selected features, to the overall topics and lessons that Drake explores, Nothing Was the Same is a true classic that has withstood the test of time.
  33. Apr 21, 2022
    10
    Nothing Was The Same showcases Drake at his most concise, hungry, and confident promising to go down as one of the greatest rap moments of the century
  34. Nov 7, 2022
    10
    This has some of drakes best songs and it was one of the best albums of the 2010’s decade. Tuscan leather is drake at his peak rapping and the production is amazing here. No bad songs. 9.5/10, but that rounds up to a 10 ig so yeah.
  35. Dec 11, 2022
    10
    I personally think that the best work of Drake's career, a song "Hold On, We're Going Home" made me feel light in the retro light atmosphere of the 80s, and I almost forgot Drake's rapper status, and found that he has R&B's talent.
    The other song "Started from the bottom" looks directly at the true portrayal of Drake from the start to the development. The words and sentences radiate
    I personally think that the best work of Drake's career, a song "Hold On, We're Going Home" made me feel light in the retro light atmosphere of the 80s, and I almost forgot Drake's rapper status, and found that he has R&B's talent.
    The other song "Started from the bottom" looks directly at the true portrayal of Drake from the start to the development. The words and sentences radiate self-reflection without losing the melodiousness of singing.
    The last masterpiece before he capital floods. (PS. Of course I hope he can settle down for a while)
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  36. Mar 2, 2023
    10
    I can't take any of these people on here that rated this album a 0 seriously... like did you even listen to it? Nothing Was The Same is legitimately a top 5 album of all time. The production, the flows, the concepts, everything is just on point. I'm truly thankful to have lived through that era of music. Like Drake said on the album, "I'm tired of hearin' 'bout who you checkin' for nowI can't take any of these people on here that rated this album a 0 seriously... like did you even listen to it? Nothing Was The Same is legitimately a top 5 album of all time. The production, the flows, the concepts, everything is just on point. I'm truly thankful to have lived through that era of music. Like Drake said on the album, "I'm tired of hearin' 'bout who you checkin' for now
    Just give it time, we'll see who's still around a decade from now" it's a been a decade and well, it's safe to say that Drake is still around and in full force.
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  37. Sep 24, 2013
    9
    Drake's paints a vivid landscape in his 3rd and most defined studio offering. While Take Care was a commercial masterpiece NWTS is a sonic masterpiece. The album plays more like a Nicolas Winding Refn movie then a rap CD... there are no true winners nor losers here. No good guys or bad guys. Even when he brags he almost checks himself at the same time. I've only listened to it from topDrake's paints a vivid landscape in his 3rd and most defined studio offering. While Take Care was a commercial masterpiece NWTS is a sonic masterpiece. The album plays more like a Nicolas Winding Refn movie then a rap CD... there are no true winners nor losers here. No good guys or bad guys. Even when he brags he almost checks himself at the same time. I've only listened to it from top to bottom once but I already know this will be this genre's Pet Sounds. It's complexity aside from the syrupy fantastic Hold On We're Going Home is almost too much to ingest in one sitting. This will be playing in my car, iPhone and computer all fall and winter I'm sure.
    As for one negative reviewer claims this is 13 yr old girl music...I really don't see how a 13 yr old can relate to 90% of this record to be honest. It's kinda sad when the only thing some naysayers can come up with is "Wheelchair Jimmie". It's getting old. Time to get over it and move on with your lives.
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  38. Oct 4, 2013
    9
    Drake comes out with his best album, and easily the best rap album of the year. Drake continues to show how he's the best in the game and could very well be in the forseeable future.
  39. Sep 24, 2013
    9
    Drake cements himself as one of rap's greats with this album, the deep woozy production and the songwriting on this is some of his best yet. People still can't take Drake seriously due to his past and that is sad and childish because they are missing out on some of the best music made to day. The album has many interesting samples, a lot of Wu-Tang inspired stuff such as the obviousDrake cements himself as one of rap's greats with this album, the deep woozy production and the songwriting on this is some of his best yet. People still can't take Drake seriously due to his past and that is sad and childish because they are missing out on some of the best music made to day. The album has many interesting samples, a lot of Wu-Tang inspired stuff such as the obvious Wu-Tang forever, and Pound Cake. The song "Furthest Thing" contains one of my favorite interludes with the DJ Screw inspired "smokin drinkin" transition. Too Much is one of Drake's most personal songs and Sampha's hook is impeccable. The song "Worst Behavior" is fantastic, it intends solely to offend the listener, and it accomplishes that well. Overall this album is a masterpiece and one of the best to drop this year. Expand
  40. Sep 29, 2013
    9
    Best Drake album to date. Nothing Was the Same is more diverse and indie than the previous two, though I do miss the dark side and unity of Take Care somehow. Drake didn't make this album "nothing was the same" as his previous works, like Kanye always does. However, he managed to make this one fresh enough and really enjoyable. I would give this a 9.5 if Metacritic let me do so, in caseBest Drake album to date. Nothing Was the Same is more diverse and indie than the previous two, though I do miss the dark side and unity of Take Care somehow. Drake didn't make this album "nothing was the same" as his previous works, like Kanye always does. However, he managed to make this one fresh enough and really enjoyable. I would give this a 9.5 if Metacritic let me do so, in case that I gave Thank Me Later 8 and Take Care 9. Expand
  41. Oct 21, 2014
    9
    Every song is masterfully put together, showcasing both the talents of Drake and 40. Thankfully and ironically when you consider the title, a lot is the same in terms of Drizzy's ability to create material as fantastic as this. Another home run, yet it doesn't quite reach the amazing heights of Take Care.
  42. Sep 24, 2013
    9
    Drake falls maybe two amazing tracks short of greatest rap album of the decade. As it stands I gave him a 9/10 if you can't appreciate Drake you don't understand music. To put it in perspective I listened to Jay-Z's album once. I've listened to Drakes 7 times on repeat just today. His music is on a level of its own. It's almost always ahead if it's time. You listen the first time and it'sDrake falls maybe two amazing tracks short of greatest rap album of the decade. As it stands I gave him a 9/10 if you can't appreciate Drake you don't understand music. To put it in perspective I listened to Jay-Z's album once. I've listened to Drakes 7 times on repeat just today. His music is on a level of its own. It's almost always ahead if it's time. You listen the first time and it's like "I don't get it" after the third time through you find yourself nodding. After the 5th time you begin to understand. The king is here and I don't see anyone taking the throne until he's ready to give it to them. Expand
  43. Sep 25, 2013
    9
    This album pretty much sums up the Drake we have all grown to know. When he spits, he spits hard but he's still not afraid to show off his emotional side. This very much feels like a Take Care, what happened next? kind of thing. The lyrics and lack of features shows Drake's more confident than ever, arrogant if you will. If you missed the So Far Gone era Drake on TML and TC, you'llThis album pretty much sums up the Drake we have all grown to know. When he spits, he spits hard but he's still not afraid to show off his emotional side. This very much feels like a Take Care, what happened next? kind of thing. The lyrics and lack of features shows Drake's more confident than ever, arrogant if you will. If you missed the So Far Gone era Drake on TML and TC, you'll probably enjoy this more than any of his other projects so far.

    One of the best rap albums in recent years and definitely the biggest. Well done, Drizzy.
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  44. Oct 3, 2013
    9
    Drake brings another excellent album to the table with Nothing Was The Same, his third full-length album. It's hard to believe it was only four years ago since "Best I Ever Had" became his breakout hit, and a lot has changed since then. On "Nothing Was The Same," he takes an introspective approach that wins. "Started From The Bottom," the gritty lead single that made the top 10 on the HotDrake brings another excellent album to the table with Nothing Was The Same, his third full-length album. It's hard to believe it was only four years ago since "Best I Ever Had" became his breakout hit, and a lot has changed since then. On "Nothing Was The Same," he takes an introspective approach that wins. "Started From The Bottom," the gritty lead single that made the top 10 on the Hot 100, would have been a good introduction but instead is the third track. It's the shortest song on the album.

    BEST Song: "Hold On, We're Going Home" f/Majid Jordan- This synthpop groove with immaculate production has made the top 5 of the Hot 100 and with its instantly catchy meoldy it will hook listeners right off the bat.

    WORST Song: "Furthest Thing"- On this track, Drake's rapping doesn't go along with the beat. The beat is pretty fast but Drake takes time with his words and the end result is a jumble of sound.

    Highlights: "Started From The Bottom," "Hold On, We're Going Home," "Wu-Tang Forever," "All Me"
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  45. Oct 16, 2013
    9
    Clearly Drake's best album, this Metascore seems kinda bogus. Why did Popmatters write two reviews? The second take seems like a correction...

    Anyway, the album cleans up a lot of the sappier and weaker moments on Take Care and is more genuine and less forgiving. The paradox of nice boy Drake vs Gangster Drake makes more sense where it is contextualised and placed on this album. More
    Clearly Drake's best album, this Metascore seems kinda bogus. Why did Popmatters write two reviews? The second take seems like a correction...

    Anyway, the album cleans up a lot of the sappier and weaker moments on Take Care and is more genuine and less forgiving. The paradox of nice boy Drake vs Gangster Drake makes more sense where it is contextualised and placed on this album. More organic. Good album.
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  46. Feb 1, 2018
    9
    This is my personal favorite Drake album. From the “Tuscan Leather” intro to the “Paris Morton Music 2” conclusion, every beat is unique and masterfully produced. Drake explores a variety of different subject matters within this album while maintaining his wildly arrogant personality and evocative voice. This is a modern hip hop album with a classic hip hop vibe. Implementations ofThis is my personal favorite Drake album. From the “Tuscan Leather” intro to the “Paris Morton Music 2” conclusion, every beat is unique and masterfully produced. Drake explores a variety of different subject matters within this album while maintaining his wildly arrogant personality and evocative voice. This is a modern hip hop album with a classic hip hop vibe. Implementations of different instrumentations, and incorporations of different musical genres made this album easy to listen to. Although this album has no thematic concept and neglects focusing on any one particular lyrical subject, it still provides clever lyricism with catchy hooks. Drake solidified his please as one of the hip hop top dogs with this album, demonstrating how consistent he is capable of being. The features were perfectly selected on this album, giving it a vibrant and smooth overall sound. Balancing R&B and Hip Hop can be difficult; however, it is a talent that Drake has mastered. Songs like “Started From The Bottom”, “Worst Behavior”, and “All Me” exemplified Drake’s ability to cultivate bangers without giving up flow or lyricism; on the other hand, songs lie “Wutang Forever”, “Furthest Thing”, and “From Time” demonstrated how Drake is still fully in control of his ability to put his listeners in their feels. The smooth and reminiscent melodies combined with drakes introsepctive lyrics and smooth voice make these songs instant radio hits. Drake only strengthened his reputation with this project and demonstrated versatility once again. Drake may not be the king of rap, but he is definitely the king of modern music. Expand
  47. Oct 26, 2022
    9
    El mejor disco de Drake, canciones muy variadas, sonido muy original y un proyecto muy creativo.
  48. Dec 17, 2014
    8
    Sin duda es de las pequeñas piezas que se destacan del 2013, con un rap limpio y una propuesta interesante para lo que puede deparar en el mundo del hip hop del futuro.
  49. Nov 19, 2013
    8
    Great album artistically. Drake's rapping isn't as good as it was in Thank me Later his best project rapping wise), but his singing is at his best since so far gone. The only thing I was disappointed in with this album were the weak singles. All me was a fairly good single, but started from the bottom and hold on were going home are downright awful. Compared to great rapping singles likeGreat album artistically. Drake's rapping isn't as good as it was in Thank me Later his best project rapping wise), but his singing is at his best since so far gone. The only thing I was disappointed in with this album were the weak singles. All me was a fairly good single, but started from the bottom and hold on were going home are downright awful. Compared to great rapping singles like over and headlines, started from the bottom is pure trash. Great album but the singles were not good. Expand
  50. Sep 24, 2013
    8
    Lyrically, not much of a progress from the last album. Beats however are amazing and 40 did a great job.
    Anyway, "Nothing was the same" is his best album so far.
  51. Sep 24, 2013
    8
    This album is very good. I'm not the biggest Drake fan but songs like "Tuscan Leather" and "Paris Morton Music 2" make me appreciate him more as an artist. This is definitely his BEST album.
  52. Sep 24, 2013
    8
    "Nothing Was The Same" is overall a great listen. Drake as a rapper is when he is at his best. Drake as a singer is when he falls flat. I also found some of the hooks to be lazy, repetitive, and left me thinking, "Is he even trying?". I thought the production saved most of the album. There were some songs on here that if it did not have the great beats on the track they would have fell"Nothing Was The Same" is overall a great listen. Drake as a rapper is when he is at his best. Drake as a singer is when he falls flat. I also found some of the hooks to be lazy, repetitive, and left me thinking, "Is he even trying?". I thought the production saved most of the album. There were some songs on here that if it did not have the great beats on the track they would have fell flat. The production is also a more mature and focused sound with more R&B type beats. My favorite songs on this album are the ones where Drake raps because he's good at it. He has great wordplay, punchlines, lyricism, and have what it takes to be a great rapper. Drake sings, and again, I am not a fan only because I feel there are better, real R&B vocalist he could get who could sing better and examples of this are the songs Jhene Aiko and Sampha are features on. I felt Drake believed that we would accept his singing if he dropped a hot verse at the end of his songs after singing a majority of the track, but it doesn't work like that. If Drake continues to sing then he needs to do more songs like, "Hold On, We're Going Home" which may sound hypocritical, but is one of my favorites songs on the album. I really enjoyed how personal Drake got on this album as well. Drake continues to give us a introspective look inside; Fame, family, friends, women, relationships, haters, money, and his position in music. There are more positives about this album than negatives. Even if some of the negatives are bad, the positives are so good it cancels out the negatives. Drake isn't a rapper or R&B artist. Drake is just a guy who makes good music. Drake is in a lane of his own and he's succeeding at it and delivers every album including on, "Nothing Is The Same". Expand
  53. Sep 29, 2013
    8
    Not as good as Take Care in my opinion, but a very solid album. Drake's "confident" personality doesn't appeal to me as much and doesn't convert into great music. The sad emotions we got from do shine through in places (Too Much, From Time) and make out to be some of the best tracks on the album.
  54. Oct 29, 2013
    8
    Though this album sure does not have as much musical introspection or value as Take Care, which was more downbeat, it is more fun to listen to. However, this does not make it a better album overall. Some songs are quite amazing, and this one is sure to stay on of the charts for some time, given its consistency and hype. Give it a try, it has things to like.
  55. Nov 1, 2013
    8
    Romantic BOY but at his adversity also devotee of women What more can I say? This album is very good, Drake sways in the vapours of absurd, but he is doing it with style. As I am big fan of connection art with music, I must appreciate the cover of album I think that this is direction of progress which artist should have take to their hearts. NOTICIFACTION :D I would advice him to add moreRomantic BOY but at his adversity also devotee of women What more can I say? This album is very good, Drake sways in the vapours of absurd, but he is doing it with style. As I am big fan of connection art with music, I must appreciate the cover of album I think that this is direction of progress which artist should have take to their hearts. NOTICIFACTION :D I would advice him to add more and more singing parts to his music. It really works. Expand
  56. Dec 1, 2013
    8
    Drake brought a lot to the table with "Nothing Was The Same". Though I still think "Take Care" was better, NWTS is almost as good as "Take Care". Drake's delivery improved with songs like "Worst Behavior", "305 To My City", & "The Language". Songs like "Connect" & "305 To My City" makes you think twice about Drake's ability to make great music within the R&B and Hip-Hop genre. I may not beDrake brought a lot to the table with "Nothing Was The Same". Though I still think "Take Care" was better, NWTS is almost as good as "Take Care". Drake's delivery improved with songs like "Worst Behavior", "305 To My City", & "The Language". Songs like "Connect" & "305 To My City" makes you think twice about Drake's ability to make great music within the R&B and Hip-Hop genre. I may not be the biggest Drake fan, but he makes good enough music to make me appreciate his talent. Expand
  57. Aug 26, 2014
    8
    From the catchy freestyling lyrics of the intro 'Tuscan Leather' to the crowning glory moment of the outro 'Pound Cake/Paris Morton Music 2', the album lived up to expectations. Drake keeps getting better and better with his music and has cemented his place as a top rapper of today
  58. Mar 12, 2014
    8
    The only real lack Drake has as an artist is the minimalism we take for granted from artists such as Kanye and Frank Ocean. At times the album drags, putting the listener's attention span to quite the test. But in his moments, he isn't once outmatched. Even his dragging moments have an emotional weight to them that can't simply be sped up. When he's slow, it's intentionally so.
  59. Feb 24, 2015
    8
    Overall I enjoyed listening to this album. It's not quite at the same level lyrically as Take Care but the beats and production of this album are his best; he keeps featured artists to a minimum and doesn't feature any Young Money artists, which I enjoyed; he adopts a style and flow that shows that he is slowly drifting away from Lil Wayne and "Young Money-type" music
  60. Mar 10, 2015
    8
    Great album! Drake brings back the passion from when he first started. Tracks are banging! Other rappers should take note on how an album should sound.
  61. Mar 11, 2015
    8
    Drake has changed the game of hip hop - love him or hate him, he is here forever. The only downside of this album is that the production is just a little weak. Other than that, it is a very good album.
  62. Jun 20, 2021
    8
    The very first Drake album I listened to in its entirety and as a whole back in the days. So undeniably this review doesn't even pretend to be objective. Feels so nostalgic now. Today it still remains my favorite one of his entire discography because it contains some songs that clearly made me grow and dream.

    Unfortunately considering 'Nothing Was the Same' as a whole project requires
    The very first Drake album I listened to in its entirety and as a whole back in the days. So undeniably this review doesn't even pretend to be objective. Feels so nostalgic now. Today it still remains my favorite one of his entire discography because it contains some songs that clearly made me grow and dream.

    Unfortunately considering 'Nothing Was the Same' as a whole project requires to consider all tracks, and sadly some are far from being even decent. While braggadocious tracks as 'Worst Behaviour', 'The Language' and 'Started from the Bottom' were here as single leaders and to showcase the album, the rest feels and sounds miles away from the overall mentality of the record. 'Tuscan Leather', 'Furthest Thing', 'Too Much' and 'From Time' appear to be the most beautiful and deepest songs of the album. Drake sounds more confident than ever, he sounds clear, even wise sometimes despite his numerous childish and adolescent phases making him validate muddy and wobbly lyrics.

    The production is amazing: it is spacious, eclectic, surprising and deep. The featured artists' performances (Sampha, Jhené Aiko, Majid Jordan, Jay-Z) are particularly noticable and create an agreeable mix with Drake's team work. When he takes his time to deliver decent lyrics it suddenly becomes more compelling than ever. If you manage to get over Drake's sabotage of some laughable tracks and give this project its chance there is much to bet that you will feel the incredible vibe 'Nothing Was the Same' has to offer. According to me Drake had the opportunity to reach the 10 out of 10 without all these (surprisingly popular) fillers. I want this 9/10 to reflect how creative and authentic this artist can be if he just follows the right path and reasonable advice around him.
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  63. Sep 3, 2021
    8
    Época que o Drake ainda era artista, hoje em dia esse cara só lança bomba
  64. Jan 30, 2023
    8
    Nothing Was The Same by Drake has him go back reminiscing about his youth, and these 15 tracks are filled with some of Drake most beautiful pieces of music with songs like Tuscan Leather and Hold On, We're Going Home. These tracks are absolutely beautiful to the core, and he has some other bangers like Worst Behavior, Pound Cake, and From Time. But like his previous albums, there are stillNothing Was The Same by Drake has him go back reminiscing about his youth, and these 15 tracks are filled with some of Drake most beautiful pieces of music with songs like Tuscan Leather and Hold On, We're Going Home. These tracks are absolutely beautiful to the core, and he has some other bangers like Worst Behavior, Pound Cake, and From Time. But like his previous albums, there are still very weak additions to the track list like the awkward 305 To My City and the cheesy and repetitive Started From The Bottom. All in all, a pretty consistent album that does have its flaws, but generally favorable in my opinion.

    7.8/10
    Favorites: Tuscan Leather, Furthest Thing, Worst Behavior, From Time, Hold On, We're Going Home, Connect, The Language, Too Much, Pound Cake / Paris Morton Music 2

    Least Favorites: Started From The Bottom, 305 To My City
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  65. Oct 3, 2013
    7
    Good album. Some tracks in there are really great But overall, it doesn't rise to the same level of his previous work. His flow is still as nearly impeccable as it was, and his singing is good well. It's just that in terms of lyrics and beats, it felt like more of the same.
  66. Sep 25, 2013
    7
    As a rap album, it disappointed as I expected. This is not a rap album, plain and simple. It's too corny/soft to be one. Rappers can be vulnerable, but Drake takes it to another level where it's hard to take seriously. But when you take it for what it is (pop with a little rap and little r&b), there is a decent album here. Drake doesn't push himself lyrically too much if at all, butAs a rap album, it disappointed as I expected. This is not a rap album, plain and simple. It's too corny/soft to be one. Rappers can be vulnerable, but Drake takes it to another level where it's hard to take seriously. But when you take it for what it is (pop with a little rap and little r&b), there is a decent album here. Drake doesn't push himself lyrically too much if at all, but production wise this album is very good. If you can ignore Drake's corny lyrics, you can definitely vibe to his songs since the beats are great and his flow is okay. Drake thinking he is a real rapper when he isn't is what holds the album back. But the production really makes this worth a listen. P.S. the song "305 to my city" is one of the worst songs I heard in a while. It is awful. Expand
  67. Oct 14, 2013
    7
    Drake for some people has been called a rapper who's not a rapper for certain reasons. Here on "Nothing Was the Same" he's out to prove that he can work with some of the biggest names in the Hip-Hop industry. And while Drake's latest release has some interesting styles, overall I was disappointed and was expecting more, but fans of Drake will no doubt enjoy "Nothing Was the Same". TheDrake for some people has been called a rapper who's not a rapper for certain reasons. Here on "Nothing Was the Same" he's out to prove that he can work with some of the biggest names in the Hip-Hop industry. And while Drake's latest release has some interesting styles, overall I was disappointed and was expecting more, but fans of Drake will no doubt enjoy "Nothing Was the Same". The problem is the overall story, it feels like it's going nowhere, and feels very repetitive towards the middle of the album. The storytelling just seems lost, and Drake doesn't really know what kind of story he wants to tell here, is it an inside look on fame and fortune, or just an album to prove that Drake can rap, it's unclear. Also the album is too long at about sixteen songs it feels like almost every song is a minute or so too long. There are good things here, Drake shines on his slow moving ballads "Hold On, We're Going Home" and "From Time", that show Drake's true colors. The guest appearances are also noteworthy, which include Jay-Z, Jhene Aiko, and Detail, as they land a hand on a couple of songs. And the rhymes, beats, and sounds all sound top-rate (if again repetitive). I was let down by this album and was expecting more, but as a Rap album, it's a solid release for fans of Drake. Expand
  68. Sep 28, 2013
    7
    Very nice album, it hits creative and emotional highs for Drake and sounds great. Drake fans will dig this but I had a couple of problems with it. Some tracks were just utter rubbish. I don't know how Drake would think that All Me, 305 To My City and Started From The Bottom would be good songs. If he just replaced these tracks and put in more songs like Too Much or Tuscan Leather it wouldVery nice album, it hits creative and emotional highs for Drake and sounds great. Drake fans will dig this but I had a couple of problems with it. Some tracks were just utter rubbish. I don't know how Drake would think that All Me, 305 To My City and Started From The Bottom would be good songs. If he just replaced these tracks and put in more songs like Too Much or Tuscan Leather it would soar. I know that Drake can make good music (Take Care rocked!) but these mediocre beats and horrible lyricism made me roll my eyes. Also may I add that Pound Cake is just depressing? The Jay Z feature is TRASH, I cant believe that he could put Jay to such bad use. My favorite tracks had to be Too Much, Come Thru, Wu Tang Forever and Tuscan Leather. Expand
  69. Sep 24, 2013
    7
    As a rap album, it disappointed as I expected. This is not a rap album, plain and simple. It's too corny/soft to be one. Rappers can be vulnerable, but Drake takes it to another level where it's hard to take seriously. But when you take it for what it is (pop with a little rap and little r&b), there is a decent album here. Drake doesn't push himself lyrically too much if at all, butAs a rap album, it disappointed as I expected. This is not a rap album, plain and simple. It's too corny/soft to be one. Rappers can be vulnerable, but Drake takes it to another level where it's hard to take seriously. But when you take it for what it is (pop with a little rap and little r&b), there is a decent album here. Drake doesn't push himself lyrically too much if at all, but production wise this album is very good. If you can ignore Drake's corny lyrics, you can definitely vibe to his songs since the beats are great and his flow is okay. Drake thinking he is a real rapper when he isn't is what holds the album back. But the production really makes this worth a listen. P.S. the song "305 to my city" is one of the worst songs I heard in a while. It is awful. Expand
  70. Oct 23, 2013
    7
    Drake shows that he can be a very respectable musician; however, there are tracks on this project that prevent the album from being fantastic. Other than Drake's still-persistent reliance on unrealistic love affairs (for the regular people, at least) in songs like "305 To My City," he still has songs about brag gin. Not as much, but he still does it. On "Paris Morton Music," he talks aboutDrake shows that he can be a very respectable musician; however, there are tracks on this project that prevent the album from being fantastic. Other than Drake's still-persistent reliance on unrealistic love affairs (for the regular people, at least) in songs like "305 To My City," he still has songs about brag gin. Not as much, but he still does it. On "Paris Morton Music," he talks about cars and the usual profligate imagery, and the nail in the coffin isn't even Drake...it's Jay-Z. Nobody wants to hear about how rich Jay-Z is anymore, nor do they care about how he says he's wealthy. This plagues his music still, and I'm done with that.

    The Pros outweigh the Cons on this project though, and it just goes to show that Drake can do it. He can be diverse, have good flow, and be interesting. He did on this project...but does he want to do it? I think he does, and he dabbles in the water of reality and honesty on this one. Not bad, Aubrey, not bad at all.

    Follow @PRTYNTGRVS for more music reviews
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  71. Jan 6, 2016
    7
    'Nothing Was the Same' is nice album by Drake. Drizzy why didn't you get '5am in Toronto' here?! Favourite tracks; 'Worst Behavior', 'Stared from the buttom'. 7/10
  72. Jan 16, 2020
    7
    This is an album of magnificent high points and some brutal low points. The former outweighs the latter, though, as Drake has a timeless collection of songs in here such as Tuscan Leather, Furthest Thing and Too Much. It's soulful, eclectic and versatile, and really good music; even if it falls apart towards the back end.
  73. Jul 17, 2017
    7
    good album............................................................................................................................................................
  74. Apr 6, 2021
    7
    this album is a 7 this album is a 7 this album is a 7 this album is a 7 this album is a 7
  75. May 28, 2023
    7
    Super cohesive, amazing beat selection and Drake's rapping sounds really passionate. Some of the tracks maybe don't sound up to par with most of the record, but it doesn't make the listen as a whole worse.

    FAVORITES: Tuscan Leather, Furthest Thing, Started From The Bottom, Worst Behavior, The Language, Too Much.
  76. Aug 19, 2023
    7
    A good Drake album. Has definitely aged compared to modern Drake but has held its own. Like a lot of his albums, this one starts very strong with songs like "Tuscan Leather" and "Wu-Tang forever" but falls off heavily after track 8.
    Best song on the album "Wu-Tang Forever"
Metascore
79

Generally favorable reviews - based on 33 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 31 out of 33
  2. Negative: 1 out of 33
  1. The Wire
    Dec 11, 2013
    70
    Drake has certainly mastered the art of making Drake records. [Nov 2013, p.66]
  2. The Source
    Nov 26, 2013
    80
    Nothing Was The Same is straight to the point, and in just over an hour, Drake closes the book on Take Care, yet opens the chapter to a brighter future. [Nov 2013, p.89]
  3. 50
    Drizzy’s candid lyrics about battered egos and insecure relationships were refreshing early on in his career, but the persona is wearing thin as he recalls how rich his melancholy has made.