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Drake is on the verge of glory once more – but he’s not quite there yet. The rapper’s latest single “Nokia” is one of the biggest tracks in the U.S. this week, and it’s edging ever closer to the highest of highs of the Hot 100. The Canadian star has made a habit of dominating the Billboard charts over the years, and while this tune hasn’t quite managed to claim the crown just yet, it’s currently sitting just beneath it, seemingly with every intention to rise. As “Nokia” just barely misses out on the summit, Drake earns a new spot in the history books, one which may ease his disappointment, if only temporarily.
“Nokia” Rises to No. 2 on the Hot 100
“Nokia” lifts from No. 3 to No. 2 on the Hot 100 this week, hitting a new high. The single returns Drake to the runner-up rung on the most competitive singles tally in the U.S., which is a position he’s come to know quite well. While missing out on No. 1 by a single space might be frustrating, this latest growth spurt brings with it a special distinction.
Before “Nokia” ascended to second place, Drake was locked in a three-way tie with The Beatles and Mariah Carey for the honor of claiming most tracks that have peaked in either the first or second slot on the Hot 100. According to Billboard, all three acts had notched 23 such hits. Now, thanks to his newest smash, Drake officially moves into the lead with 24.
Drake Breaks a Historic Chart Tie
According to the chart company, “Nokia” is Drake’s eleventh cut to stop at No. 2 — at least for now. He’s also claimed 13 No. 1s across his career, which places him among the most successful chart-toppers of all time. Those figures may soon change again, especially if his latest single continues to gain ground.
Kendrick Lamar and SZA Block Drake With “Luther”
Drake’s shot at another Hot 100 win is currently being held up by his rival. The chart is once again controlled by “Luther,” a collaboration between Kendrick Lamar and SZA. That track, which has already spent eight frames at No. 1, doesn’t show any signs that it’s slipping, even as “Nokia” is growing in popularity. It’s been on the ranking for 20 weeks now and has become the most-played song on U.S. radio, a factor that often keeps a tune in charge of the competitive tally for an extended run.
Being stuck at No. 2 behind Lamar likely stings just a little more than usual for Drake. The two rappers clashed last year in a public feud, one that produced Lamar’s wildly popular “Not Like Us,” which quickly became one of the most talked-about hip-hop songs of all time.
Drake recently delivered the “Nokia” music video, which is helping the cut in terms of consumption. Just as that visual is impacting the charts – helping it rise to No. 2 – Lamar has done the same with “Luther,” so that cut may be able to beat Drake’s latest once again in the coming week.
