Drake Cites Winnie the Pooh as Inspiration on Sophomore LP

Drake is looking to a surprising muse while recording his sophomore LP. The Toronto rapper recently spoke on how his childhood favorite Winnie the Pooh has been a key inspiration while conceptualizing his second album 'Take Care,' and that during his recent U.K. tour stop he spent a heft amount of money on the first four books in the series.

"I bought the first-ever Winnie the Pooh books, like all four Winnie the Pooh books," he told DJ Semtex. "It cost me a lot of pounds, man. I probably could have bought a small car for that."

The Young Money rapper also explained that even though "Winnie the Pooh is like super not hip-hop," it has always been a part of his life. "They were a huge part of my childhood," he said. "That's my influence, man. Winnie the Pooh on this next album."

He also explained that while his platinum debut 'Thank Me Later' was hailed as one of last year's best albums, he wasn't so content with the final product. "Thank Me Later' was a rushed album. I didn't get to take the time that I wanted to on that record. I rushed a lot of the songs, and sonically, I didn't get to sit with the record and say, 'OK, well maybe I should change this verse,'" he said. "Once it was done, it was done. That's why my new album is called 'Take Care 'cause I get to take my time this go-round."

The 'Fancy' rapper, who is currently on tour in Europe with J. Cole, is expected to release 'Take Care' later this year. The album is set to feature production from 9th Wonder and Boi-1da.

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