Drake turned 40 on Friday, Oct. 23, and the party at Casa Cipriani in New York City was exactly as extra as you’d expect. About 400 guests showed up, and everyone left with Chanel and Hermès bags. Yes, as party favors. There was also a game show built into the night, with cash prizes going up to $1 million.
The biggest moment came when the Backstreet Boys appeared and performed“I Want It That Way,”with Drake jumping in and weaving in his own“Hold On, We’re Going Home.”The song means more to him than a good chorus. Drake told the room he first heard it at his bar mitzvah, when a girl asked him to dance, and it was the first time he felt acknowledged and like he had a shot at being cool.
Drake made clear the night wasn’t a tour announcement, an album rollout, or a product launch. It was about being alive and staying alive, and thanking the people in the room for their hard work. Which is a pretty grounded message for a party with designer handbags waiting at the door. What’s the best party favor you’ve ever taken home from an event?
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Local Lawton
Local Lawton is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.