Full Name: | William Drake White |
Age: | 39 |
Hometown: | Hokes Bluff, Alabama |
Genre: | Country, Southern Rock |
Labels: | Dot Records, Big Machine |
Hit Songs: | "Livin‘ the Dream", "Heartbeat", "Makin‘ Me Look Good Again" |
Awards: | ACM New Male Vocalist of the Year |
Social Media: | Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube |
With his raspy, soulful voice and high-energy stage presence, Drake White has made a name for himself in the country music scene. Born William Drake White in 1983 in Hokes Bluff, Alabama, Drake grew up with a passion for music inherited from his guitar-playing grandfather. He formed his first band at age 14, playing cover songs at local bars on weekends. After high school, Drake studied business in college while continuing to hone his songwriting skills and play gigs around the Southeast.
Nashville Beginnings & Record Deal
In 2014, Drake took the plunge and moved to Nashville to pursue his dreams of becoming a professional country musician. He spent years playing writers rounds and open mics before self-releasing his debut EP X in 2012. That EP landed Drake some production deals and ultimately a record contract with Dot Records in 2014.
His first major single, "It Feels Good", became a Top 40 hit on country radio in 2015. Drake‘s soulful vocals and southern rock sound stood out from other male country artists at the time. The song‘s success earned him opportunities touring with major acts like Zac Brown Band, Eric Church, and Willie Nelson.
Breakout Success with ‘Spark‘ & ‘Pieces‘
In 2016, Drake released his debut album Spark on Dot Records, featuring the singles "Livin‘ the Dream", "Makin‘ Me Look Good Again" and "Backroads". The album blended country instrumentation with Drake‘s gospel-tinged vocals and established his signature retro-soul style. It peaked at #9 on the Billboard Country charts, proving Drake as more than just a one-hit wonder.
Drake reached #1 on the Country Airplay chart for the first time with "Makin‘ Me Look Good Again", which also earned him the ACM Award for New Male Vocalist of the Year in 2017. His musical momentum continued with his 2018 sophomore record Pieces. Hit singles like "Heartbeat", "Way Down" and fan favorite "American Outlaw" displayed Drake‘s growth as a versatile artist and cemented his rising star status.
Charitable Work
Giving back has always been important to Drake. He has been involved with charities like the Special Olympics, the Alabama Head Injury Foundation, and the Boot Campaign. In 2012, Drake played a benefit concert that raised over $20,000 for victims after tornadoes devastated his home state of Alabama. He also sells T-shirts to benefit military veterans and speaks out against bullying. As someone who struggled early on with anxiety and self-confidence, Drake aims to spread positivity through his music.
Musical Style & Influences
Drake‘s music combines country, blues, gospel, and Southern rock influences. He cites artists like Hank Williams, Otis Redding, Keith Urban, and Chris Stapleton as musical inspirations. His raspy, soulful vocals have even earned Drake comparisons to Kenny Chesney and Joe Cocker.
Lyrically, Drake draws from his small-town Southern roots and sings about relatable topics like chasing dreams, learning from mistakes, and appreciating the simple things in life. As Drake describes it, "I‘m influenced by real life, and I want to influence others to go out and attack life.”
Fun Facts About Drake
- His stage name comes from his middle name Drake and his grandfather‘s last name White.
- He formed his first band at 14 years old playing covers at local bars.
- Drake is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys hunting, fishing, and hiking.
- He met his wife, singer Alex White, backstage at a show in Nashville.
- Drake is known for wearing a white tank top and cowboy hat during his high-energy concerts.
With his blue-collar charm and God-given talent, Drake White has all the makings of country music‘s next big star. His authenticity resonates with fans who are drawn to his passion and positivity. Drake‘s soulful vocals and catchy songwriting talent continue to win over audiences as he tours the country. So catch a Drake White show if you can…his high-energy performances are not to be missed!