Drake announces hiatus from music due to stomach problems

On Friday, the beloved Canadian rapper Drake announced that he would be taking a break from music due to ongoing stomach problems he has been dealing with for the last few years. This news came just before the release of his eighth studio album, "For All The Dogs," which was also released on Friday.

Drake's announcement was made during an episode of his radio show, "Table For One," on SiriusXM's Sound 42. In the episode, the rapper expressed the need to take time off to focus on his health. He stated, "It's nothing too extreme, but I believe in prioritizing one's health in life. I've been facing some significant stomach issues for years, and I want to be open about it."

While acknowledging that he has more music in the pipeline due to prior commitments he's made to other artists, Drake mentioned that he will go on a hiatus after fulfilling those commitments. He further elaborated on this later in the episode, saying, "I have some obligations to other artists that I've made promises to, but I probably won't be creating music for a while. I want to be honest with you."

To the disappointment of his fans, the rapper indicated that the hiatus would likely last for a year, though he himself wasn't entirely certain about the duration of his absence. Drake expressed, "I need to take the time to get myself in the right condition, and there are other aspects of my life that I'd like to focus on. So, I'll be closing the studio door for a little while. I can't specify how long that 'little bit' will be. It might be a year or even longer."
Representatives for Drake have chosen not to provide further statements regarding his hiatus.

"For All The Dogs" features 23 songs by the rapper, including collaborations with other artists such as 21 Savage, SZA, J. Cole, Bad Bunny, and Chief Keef. Ahead of the album's release, Drake released one of its lead singles, "8am in Charlotte," along with an accompanying music video. The video notably featured the rapper's son, Adonis Graham, who also created the album's cover art. Fans can find the new album on all major streaming services.