Drake’s Scorpion became one of 2018’s biggest albums, featuring the viral phenomenon “In My Feelings” (Kiki Challenge) and addressing the Pusha-T diss saga that exposed Drake’s secret son.
The Album
Released June 29, 2018, Scorpion was a 25-track double album: Side A (rap) and Side B (R&B). Production came from 40, Boi-1da, Tay Keith, DJ Paul, and others. Features included Jay-Z, Nicki Minaj, Ty Dolla $ign, and Static Major (posthumously). Singles “God’s Plan,” “Nice for What,” and “In My Feelings” all hit #1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Pusha-T Beef Context
Weeks before release, Pusha-T’s “The Story of Adidon” diss track exposed Drake’s hidden son Adonis with former adult film star Sophie Brussaux. The revelation shocked fans. Scorpion became Drake’s response: “March 14” addressed fatherhood, “Emotionless” tackled media scrutiny. The hashtag trended as fans analyzed every lyric for clues.
In My Feelings Phenomenon
“In My Feelings” sparked the #InMyFeelingsChallenge (also #KikiChallenge), where people danced alongside moving cars to the song’s hook. Comedian Shiggy originated the trend in June 2018. Celebrities, athletes, and millions participated. The challenge became dangerous (people jumped from moving vehicles), prompting police warnings. The song spent 10 weeks at #1 on the Hot 100.
Commercial Success
Scorpion debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 with 732,000 units—the biggest debut of 2018. It broke Apple Music and Spotify single-day streaming records. All 25 tracks charted on the Hot 100 simultaneously, tying the record. The album went 5× Platinum and dominated summer 2018.
Legacy
Scorpion showcased Drake’s commercial dominance but revealed vulnerability. The Pusha-T beef exposed cracks in his carefully curated image. The album’s mix of hits, filler, and confessionals became a template for streaming-era bloat. “In My Feelings” remains one of the most viral songs ever, while the album itself represents Drake at peak cultural saturation.
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