User Score
6.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 334 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Negative: 56 out of 334

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  1. EricY
    Jun 18, 2010
    10
    TML is definitely one of the greates hip hop albums of the century. Drake has shown us, once again, his ability to be real and mix the genders. TML has different tempos and is one of those cds that you keep listening over and over and over again.
  2. KaosH
    Jun 15, 2010
    9
    Drake's Thank Me Later is a nice mix CD of Rap and R&B tracks.I Jut bought this CD because ive been a fan of his previous work. but like most of his tracks are solid and he goes hard on songs like Over and Miss Me and does a great job teaming up with his mentor Lil' Wayne and Young Money's First Lady Nick Minaj in Up All Night. I think the strongest tracks on the album are: Drake's Thank Me Later is a nice mix CD of Rap and R&B tracks.I Jut bought this CD because ive been a fan of his previous work. but like most of his tracks are solid and he goes hard on songs like Over and Miss Me and does a great job teaming up with his mentor Lil' Wayne and Young Money's First Lady Nick Minaj in Up All Night. I think the strongest tracks on the album are: *Fireworks *Show Me A Good Time *Up All Night *Unforgettable *Over *Miss Me the weakest tracks on the CD to me are Karaoke, Light Up, and CeCe's Interlude (not really a track, its an interlude, but still i dont like it that much). I Think that 11 out of the 14 songs on the CD are that good. This is why I gave it a 9 out of 10. Expand
  3. MackM.
    Jun 16, 2010
    8
    This album really aids a fan in relting to Drake's struggle. I believe the tone of the album, at best, portrays the many facets of the Degrassi Actor and Canada Native. I hope his sales later become a reflection of his hard work and dedication.
  4. AngeloS
    Jun 18, 2010
    10
    I think it was a very heartfelt presentation, of the ups and downs of his new found success. Although he is thankful for his success, he also suffers quite a bit, as aspects of his live are slowly falling apart. He manages to put these in words, and that is why this album is so amazing.
  5. Aug 11, 2010
    8
    Drake again is showing his potential in the future he is well past his peers at Cash Money Records and is on his way to the top of the food chain, his songs are smart and bring class to the table when it comes to mainstream rap. His work so far has been good if he can keep it up he will show people what it really means to be an artist. He has been releasing stuff constantly and has thatDrake again is showing his potential in the future he is well past his peers at Cash Money Records and is on his way to the top of the food chain, his songs are smart and bring class to the table when it comes to mainstream rap. His work so far has been good if he can keep it up he will show people what it really means to be an artist. He has been releasing stuff constantly and has that workaholic mentality that Lil Wayne has and it has served them both well, they are examples of what you can accomplished when you are determined, and work your hardest, to the best of your abilities. Light Up was an incredible song, and not his only one either, Thank Me Later has numerous hits that would stand out on any album. One of the best mainstream albums of the year so far. Expand
  6. Aug 31, 2010
    8
    I was expecting more from him his mixtape was just great and he did good for an debut album there are songs that caught my eye such as the swagger filled song "Fancy" and the boastful "Show Me A Good Time" but those that lack substance is "Karaoke" which seems so bland and kind of pointless Drake has shown us he has potential but let's face it this is no where near better than "So FarI was expecting more from him his mixtape was just great and he did good for an debut album there are songs that caught my eye such as the swagger filled song "Fancy" and the boastful "Show Me A Good Time" but those that lack substance is "Karaoke" which seems so bland and kind of pointless Drake has shown us he has potential but let's face it this is no where near better than "So Far Gone" it is However a good album I gave him an 8 due to his intro and outro songs being attention grabbers in sum you will not be disappointed as long as you don't have the mixtape on your mind Expand
  7. Jun 12, 2011
    8
    This album is almost perfect. I find that most of the songs are wonderful, though occasionally you might notice the same beats in the background. This album represents, and lives up to the hype that is Drake, the lyrics are what get me, they are deep, well thought out and at times witty. Drake let's us into his mind and soul for this album, and describes the very essence of who he is. TheThis album is almost perfect. I find that most of the songs are wonderful, though occasionally you might notice the same beats in the background. This album represents, and lives up to the hype that is Drake, the lyrics are what get me, they are deep, well thought out and at times witty. Drake let's us into his mind and soul for this album, and describes the very essence of who he is. The album is good, I wouldn't say great, because a couple of the middle tracks aren't incredible, and don't fit in, but most of the songs are fabulous tunes, that fans of almost any genre can enjoy. I'm not using this argument as an excuse, but Drake himself knew the album wouldn't be perfect because Motown Records pushed him to make the album date, and wouldn't allow an extension. Expand
  8. Nov 16, 2010
    9
    In this album, Drake voices his opinion on fame, fortune, and women. From his strong to soft voice, to his excitement in the lyrical raps that he writes, this album shows a promised future for the X Degrassi star. I wish him all the best.
  9. Dec 11, 2010
    7
    This album was good. I like this album but too much singing in it. This album was more rnb than hip hop. I think Drake did a great job with his first album. Really good songs. I think this is one of the best hip hop album of the year.
  10. Dec 17, 2010
    8
    Good positive debut album in my opinion from Drake. When first listening to it, i enjoyed the album and admired the talent he had. Granted there are a few tracks that arent fantastic but Drake wil only learn for the next time. However i do feel that he may need to show off his rapping more than what he showed cos he clearly has it. If he does that he will definitely earn even more respectGood positive debut album in my opinion from Drake. When first listening to it, i enjoyed the album and admired the talent he had. Granted there are a few tracks that arent fantastic but Drake wil only learn for the next time. However i do feel that he may need to show off his rapping more than what he showed cos he clearly has it. If he does that he will definitely earn even more respect than he already has. Expand
  11. May 19, 2011
    8
    This is a good album. Really. He opens up with the incredibly emotional & fantastically worded "Fireworks (f. Alicia Keys)", and continues his flow with tracks like "Up All Night (f. Nicki Minaj)", as well as "Fancy (f. Swizz Beatz & T.I.). However, this album sinks with some of his weaker tracks, such as "The Resistance" & "Thank Me Now", which ends the album on a shaky (and annoying)This is a good album. Really. He opens up with the incredibly emotional & fantastically worded "Fireworks (f. Alicia Keys)", and continues his flow with tracks like "Up All Night (f. Nicki Minaj)", as well as "Fancy (f. Swizz Beatz & T.I.). However, this album sinks with some of his weaker tracks, such as "The Resistance" & "Thank Me Now", which ends the album on a shaky (and annoying) note. However, this album shines, and I hope he nails "Take Care" like he did with this. I also hope to see some more material like his "So Far Gone" mixtape. Key Tracks: "Fireworks (f. Alicia Keys)" "Fancy (f. T.I. & Swizz Beatz" Expand
  12. Jun 10, 2011
    9
    Powerful and deep. Drake's self-conscious persona mixed with addicting beats conjures up a masterful album. His singing may not be the best, but his vocals help paint a more vivid picture for the average listener. Drake does not disappoint on this album, he is a very talented rapper who is aware of the rewards and consequences of fame.
  13. Feb 23, 2015
    7
    Drake has finally put a footprint in the rap industry after the release of this album. There is a perfect mix of slow, melodic beats and fast-paced jams that you can nod your head to.
  14. Apr 17, 2017
    8
    A very strong project that does lack some cohesion. That being said, the songs on there own are very good and the project is certainly worth many listens.
  15. GregC
    Jun 18, 2010
    9
    Impressive debut album. Drake possesses some serious skills on the mic, being able to actually hold a tune unlike his advocaries who think that they could, and if you're still on that whole "Drake can't rap" boat, I advise you to get off because it's a quickly sinking ship.
  16. LashaeR
    Jun 18, 2010
    10
    Fantastic album especially for a debut. I love the fact that not only can he rap but he sings , and when he sings it's actually pleasant.
  17. ArmandoC.
    Jun 15, 2010
    9
    The smooth beats and really deep and insightful lyrics makes this a great album overall. Drake is very skilled and he knows it!
  18. JDX
    Jun 15, 2010
    9
    Is it a classic, almost. Not many new faces can make and album of this caliber the first time out which makes it even more impressive. Of course there will be haters, there always are, but Drake more than delivered on his hype in my view and they will just have to swallow it.
  19. JayM
    Jun 15, 2010
    9
    One of the top albums of the year already. The synth chill beats he has on the album make it a perfect CD to waste the day listening to. Sometimes the subject topic is monotonous but overall Drake has fully embedded himself as a power in the rap game with this album.
  20. pitom
    Jun 15, 2010
    10
    Genuine introspection and bone-chilling production.
  21. Aug 2, 2011
    10
    This album is a real testament to how deep of an artist drake is. You can see a real variety of sounds whether it be more upbeat rap songs like Over or Miss Me, to a more slowed down, RnB style with songs like Cece's Interlude, Fireworks, and Shut It Down. The album is great, very fun to listen all the way through, and cant wait for more from him
  22. RandyJ
    Jun 18, 2010
    10
    This reshapes the genre as much as 808's and Heartbreak. A classic piece of music that explores the limits of hip-hop, R&B, and pop.
  23. RyanD.
    Jun 20, 2010
    10
    Thank me later is really a nice laid back album. Drake is very depth in his lyric choice. His style is more energetic and calm in his debut album.He goes hard every song and kills it with is collabos with other artists.
  24. JD
    Jun 16, 2010
    8
    Its pretty good. I could you some more of his mixtape style rapping. Also I dont like the AUTOtune in some of the songs.
  25. VictorH
    Jun 15, 2010
    10
    Incredible!
  26. IanK.
    Jun 20, 2010
    10
    One of the most true and real rap albums to ever be released. Drake raps with realism and relates to his listeners by telling us about his life.
  27. Michael
    Jun 15, 2010
    7
    Overall this was an average album. I am completely surprised that the metascore is at 82 right now. I recently listened to Eminem's recovery and that smashes on this album. If this album is an 82, then Recovery should at the very least be a 90!
  28. JMoney
    Jun 15, 2010
    10
    UNDISPUTED Album of the year!!!
  29. Nov 18, 2011
    10
    I Made an account just to say that this album is amazing. After seeing reviews by dumb **** like CodyT giving this masterpiece a 3/10 makes me question the competence of the average human (codyT suck a big dick). Anyone else giving this a negative review you are crazy seriously if I knew you people Id beat the **** out of each one of you thats how much love I got for drake his musicI Made an account just to say that this album is amazing. After seeing reviews by dumb **** like CodyT giving this masterpiece a 3/10 makes me question the competence of the average human (codyT suck a big dick). Anyone else giving this a negative review you are crazy seriously if I knew you people Id beat the **** out of each one of you thats how much love I got for drake his music completes me, keep making that beautiful music Drake (amazing)! Expand
  30. Gurjb
    Jun 16, 2010
    10
    Amazing how can these critics give this cd such unfair acclaim when they give artists like guccci mane soulja boy and others stupid rappers such good reviews.
  31. ConradM.
    Jun 16, 2010
    10
    Although it doesn't seem as powerful upon the first play through, Thank Me Later seems to grow on you until eventually you love it. Drake has been brave in creating an album such as this, instead of trying to repeat his previous successes, and for that I give him credit. He has triumphed in fusing together R&B and Hip Hop styles in a seamless fashion, and has subconsciously been able Although it doesn't seem as powerful upon the first play through, Thank Me Later seems to grow on you until eventually you love it. Drake has been brave in creating an album such as this, instead of trying to repeat his previous successes, and for that I give him credit. He has triumphed in fusing together R&B and Hip Hop styles in a seamless fashion, and has subconsciously been able to show people what the real difference is between R&B and Pop. It is rare that a rapper can switch so freely between rapping and singing while still remaining in flow; even Kanye West had to do separate albums for each. The inside booklet is rather touching, but also ironic that he is thanking everyone else when the album's title suggests otherwise. The guest stars on this album supplement Drake well, with rappers Nicki Minaj, T.I., Jay-Z, Lil Wayne and Young Jeezy amplifying Drake's lyrical ability, and singers R&B Alicia Keys and The-Dream showing off his more emotional side. No I.D., Crada, Boi-1da, 40, Matthew Burnett, Tone Mason, Jeff Bhasker and Al-Khaaliq all show off their own production skills by helping Drake achieve what he has, and Producer-Rappers Swizz Beatz, Timbaland and Kanye West have given us their best. I am not going to ruin too much for you by mentioning any specific new tracks-that is up to you to think about-but European Bonus track Best I Ever Had is able to conclude the album by reminding us why we bought it. It shows us the journey Drake has travelled, and how much he has changed since his big breakthrough, So Far Gone, and you must remember this is his first album; Eminem himself didn't start off as great as he is now, anyone remember Infinite? Expand
  32. khalid
    Jun 15, 2010
    8
    Its a solid debut album...im not really sure if this is better than b.o.b.s album, then a good bit of tracks are r n b, but if you really like drake then this is a good album.
  33. ChadL
    Jun 15, 2010
    10
    Great album, all the way through. Lives up to the hype.
  34. DougL
    Jun 16, 2010
    9
    This wasn't what we expected, and it's the best surprise of the year.
  35. NathanJ
    Jun 19, 2010
    8
    The love songs, the clubblin', but don't get famous. With solid production from Boi-1da and 40 and features by Young Jeezy and Jay-Z this album will surely get some plays on your portable music device. A
  36. AndrewW.
    Jun 19, 2010
    10
    One of the most beautiful and impressing debuts of modern-day hip hop. Drake raps amazing flow over unusual but original slow-tempo beats, in "Fireworks", "The Resistance", and others. Hopefully, this will be what one of the best rappers in the spotlight will do until its over.
  37. Aug 28, 2010
    7
    This is the use of autotune we need. To make it sound good. Wayne uses autotune but we dont criticize him on that. This kid is good, but not as good as up and comers like Kid Cudi and J Cole
  38. Oct 26, 2010
    7
    Drake is probaly one of the most talented Canadian artists I have ever seen, (I wouldnt be surpized if a "Best New Artist" Grammy came his way soon) but some of the songs on this album are just plain boring. And I'm not saying all slow music is boring, but it should at least keep the listener engaged while listening to the music.
  39. Dec 5, 2010
    10
    This has to be my favourite album of 2010 (beats Kanye). Drakes raps are good and 40s beats are insane. Good to see an album with a slower BPM can still dominate on todays charts. I love it!!!
  40. Jul 10, 2011
    9
    After over a year of listening to Thank Me Later I have come to the realization that this is a classic album. Though many hip-hop fans discredit his talent because of the fact that he was an actor, or because he's half white or because of how often he sings, there is no denying the impact this album will have on hip-hop's future. I'm not saying impact alone makes a classic, but I believeAfter over a year of listening to Thank Me Later I have come to the realization that this is a classic album. Though many hip-hop fans discredit his talent because of the fact that he was an actor, or because he's half white or because of how often he sings, there is no denying the impact this album will have on hip-hop's future. I'm not saying impact alone makes a classic, but I believe Drake's unique style of music will continue to influence new artists such as The Weeknd and others. The main reason Thank Me Later is a classic is the lyrical talent displayed. Drake has mastered the art of connecting to listeners in a way that few artists ever have. Songs like The Resistance and Unforgettable tell the stories of young people all around the world. Over is a perfect example of what every new artists dreams their first single will be, epic, catchy and revolutionary all at the same time. Top to bottom this album satisfies. Expand
  41. Oct 21, 2011
    9
    This man and J. Cole will lead hip-hop into this decade. Nov. 15 Take Care
    Best Tracks
    "Karaoke"
    "Fireworks"
    "Over"
    "Fancy"
    "Miss Me"
    "Shut It Down"
    "Light Up"
  42. Mar 3, 2012
    7
    A Solid Debut With Phat Rhymes, Beats, And Flow And Delivery Are All It Really Takes For A MC Like Drake. But Those Rhymes Could Be Improved. And His Delivery Could Be Better As Well.
  43. Mar 8, 2012
    9
    Not the worse debut but not the best. Drake is at his best when rapping so you wouldn't expect this album by a rapper to have slow songs where he's actually singing. The writing on the album is best part about it because he is talking about his life and about how it'schanging now that he is famous. People will look back on this album and say it was better than all the other rap albums thatNot the worse debut but not the best. Drake is at his best when rapping so you wouldn't expect this album by a rapper to have slow songs where he's actually singing. The writing on the album is best part about it because he is talking about his life and about how it'schanging now that he is famous. People will look back on this album and say it was better than all the other rap albums that released in 2010. Expand
  44. Jun 17, 2021
    9
    This was Drake's second album and also his second best. He still utilizes production from 40 and Boi-1da, so the sound of the instrumentals is similar to his last record. Drake is one of the best rappers around, and his hooks are infectious. It's impressive how he has great vocal range for a rapper and can sing. Over, Up All Night, Fancy, Miss Me, and Find Your Love are the stand outThis was Drake's second album and also his second best. He still utilizes production from 40 and Boi-1da, so the sound of the instrumentals is similar to his last record. Drake is one of the best rappers around, and his hooks are infectious. It's impressive how he has great vocal range for a rapper and can sing. Over, Up All Night, Fancy, Miss Me, and Find Your Love are the stand out tracks on the album. Expand
  45. Dec 10, 2013
    7
    Drake truly announced himself to the world. From the previews that were seen in So Far Gone, to this is a big step but I felt he was lacking something.
  46. Jan 6, 2015
    10
    Not half bad. The album explains how Drake feels about fame success. It's totally worth a listen. My two favorite tracks are the last two ("Find Your Love" and "Thank Me Now") because they are both extremely catchy and make a lot of sense, in my opinion.
  47. Mar 10, 2015
    7
    Drake is so versatile and this is a good start from him as I look forward to bigger and better things from him.

    Best songs:
    1. Light Up
    2. Miss Me
    3. Unforgettable
    4. The Resistance
    5. Fireworks
  48. Mar 11, 2015
    7
    Continuing to demonstrate the widespread effect hip hop has gained globally, Drake is the first international hip hop artist. He has a much more impressive pedigree once you peel back a layer or two. Not only does he write and co-produce a lot of his own material, he has just as much validity as a singer.....as he has with his flow.
  49. Sep 8, 2015
    10
    Perhaps the most anticipated hip-hop album of the 21st century, TML was Drake's opportunity to prove to the world that he was worth the hype. This album was not perfect but proved that Drake was in fact worth that hype. TML is probably the weakest album Drake has released, but without it he would not have set himself up for improvement on Take Care & NWTS.
  50. Apr 5, 2016
    7
    Em seu álbum de estréia, Drake exala confiança e maturidade, se mostrando a altura de outros grandes nomes do Rap. Sendo produzindo pelas editoras discográficas Young Money e Cash Money, “Thank me later” apresenta um material concreto e resoluto. Os versos explícitos de Drake são claros e sólidos, e de fato ele os pronuncia muito bem, mas por outro lado, a harmonia contida entre umasEm seu álbum de estréia, Drake exala confiança e maturidade, se mostrando a altura de outros grandes nomes do Rap. Sendo produzindo pelas editoras discográficas Young Money e Cash Money, “Thank me later” apresenta um material concreto e resoluto. Os versos explícitos de Drake são claros e sólidos, e de fato ele os pronuncia muito bem, mas por outro lado, a harmonia contida entre umas poucas faixas é involuntariamente ofuscada, e em alguns momentos se tornam tímidas e até mesmo irrelevantes. Drake por sua vez, consegue se adaptar excepcionalmente entre as transições de ritmos, e leva consigo ao decorrer do disco uma turminha de peso no cenário musical, como Jay-z, Lil Wayne, The-Dream e até mesmo Nick minaj, até então outra novata em meio a indústria, entretanto, é nas faixas “Over” e “Find your love” que o canadense mais se destaca, mesmo estando desacompanhado. Mesmo que inibido em alguns pontos, “Thank me later” consequentemente irá proporcionar aos fãs do Hip-Hop um ótimo divertimento, seja do primeiro verso até o último. (B) Expand
  51. Jul 18, 2017
    7
    good album........................................................................................................................................................................
  52. Jun 18, 2020
    10
    In retrospect, this album is everything Drake represents. This is what that kid from Toronto wanted to be. This album helped push the boundaries from rappers not singing in their music. The production is incredible and cinematic at times like in "Light Up" and "Cece's Interlude". For 14 songs, Drake continues to hit you with something different and he presents himself not only as aIn retrospect, this album is everything Drake represents. This is what that kid from Toronto wanted to be. This album helped push the boundaries from rappers not singing in their music. The production is incredible and cinematic at times like in "Light Up" and "Cece's Interlude". For 14 songs, Drake continues to hit you with something different and he presents himself not only as a braggadocios musician but a romantic wanting a companion. His true feelings are shown on "The Resistance" and "Find Your Love". While his singing may be robotic at times, his excellent storytelling helps mask the sound because you're then expecting what he will say next. Amazing and underappreciated album for sure. Expand
  53. Jan 22, 2021
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Un vortice di emozioni, sensazioni, suoni e vibrazioni che si susseguono per tutta la durata del disco. Si lascia apprezzare in tutti i suoi aspetti. È un disco che risente particolarmente delle influenze pop e R&B, la chiave nella quale Drake, a parer mio, sa esprimere il proprio meglio. Expand
  54. 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
  55. Apr 21, 2022
    10
    Thank Me Later is the rise of Drake as we all remember it. Full of memorable songs, nostalgia, great A-list features and Drake at his most “I got all the hits, boy". Classic all the way through!
Metascore
75

Generally favorable reviews - based on 26 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 23 out of 26
  2. Negative: 0 out of 26
  1. Given his limitations, his famous friends are a mixed benefit, because they show him up.
  2. Thank Me Later may not have been the game-changing release everyone was hoping for, but we now have every reason to believe that the hype will ring true on his next album.
  3. Because of his relatively privileged upbringing (he's from a wealthy part of Toronto), Thank Me Later is less about chronicling and rising up out of his environment (like basically every rap debut since Illmatic) and more about how Drake is uncomfortable being famous.