Adin Ross has quickly become a central figure in Gen Z’s connection to hip-hop, much like how Funkmaster Flex served previous generations. While this comparison might not sit well with some fans, it’s undeniable that Ross, along with fellow streamer Kai Cenat, and DJ Akademiks has become a go-to platform for rappers to share new music. The influence of these streamers has reached such heights that even Drake, and Kendrick Lamar arguably two of the biggest rappers in the world, have been using their platforms to leak unreleased material. Over the past year, both Ross and Cenat have played snippets of exclusive tracks, creating excitement among their massive audiences.
The latest instance occurred on September 4, when Adin Ross previewed a snippet of an unreleased Drake and Lil Durk collaboration titled “Discontinuing Wokhardt.” The song’s title alone, referencing a common ingredient in lean (Wokhardt is a brand of promethazine with codeine), hints at the track’s thematic focus. Lil Durk kicks off the song, but it’s Drake’s melodic flow and thought-provoking lyrics that have caught listeners’ attention. Ross even commented on how infectious Drake’s delivery is. However, what stands out even more than Drake’s signature smooth style is the content of his verse—Drake seems to be hinting at quitting lean, singing, “Discontinuing Wokhardt, but still do I pop now.”
This revelation comes at a significant time. Drake has recently been scrutinized for appearing to drink lean in a video with his son Adonis, sparking concern from fans. In the clip, which was shot from Drake’s perspective, he gets into a car holding what looks like a cup associated with the drink. The casual nature of the video, combined with the presence of his young son, caused outrage among some fans who questioned the rapper’s judgment in seemingly normalizing drug use around a child.
Though Drake has never fully embraced lean culture as part of his persona in the way other rappers like Future or Kodak Black have, he has been open about his occasional use of the drug in the past. In a 2011 interview with The Guardian, he admitted, “Have I sipped codeine before? Yeah, of course. Have I smoked weed? Yes. Do I drink wine? Yes. But do I do it excessively? No. I’m not a reckless guy. I do it all within moderation.” If “Discontinuing Wokhardt” is any indication, it seems Drake may now be distancing himself from the drug altogether.
This change might also reflect broader cultural shifts within hip-hop, where Lean’s association with tragic overdoses and declining health has led some artists to reconsider its glorification. Drake’s potential move away from lean follows a growing trend, as even artists who once celebrated the drug are now being more candid about its harmful effects.
Lil Yachty, a former close friend of Drake, even released a song titled “Wock” in 2022, referring to the same brand. With this latest snippet, Drake appears to be taking a stance that could resonate with fans who have watched him evolve over the years, both musically and personally. If Drake is indeed stepping away from lean, “Discontinuing Wokhardt” could mark a significant moment in his career—one that shows his ability to mature while still maintaining his status as a trendsetter in the rap game.
Akademiks reacts to the snippet for Drake & Lil Durk's new collab, 'Discontinuing Wokhardt' 👀 pic.twitter.com/belw2NUcp5
— Kurrco (@Kurrco) September 6, 2024
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