In the realm of hip-hop, where the lines between sports and music often blur, Drake’s latest EP, “Scary Hours 3,” serves as a thrilling testament to this fusion. Known for his close ties with NBA icons like LeBron James and Kevin Durant, Drake has once again intertwined his musical artistry with basketball narratives. This time, the spotlight turns to James Harden, an NBA star perpetually in the media for various reasons.
Drake’s Ode to the Basketball World
“Scary Hours 3,” functioning as a sequel to his album “For All The Dogs,” features six fresh tracks laden with references to Drake’s on-and-off-court adversaries. A standout moment in the EP occurs when Drake explicitly names James Harden, sparking widespread speculation and debate among fans and hip-hop commentators.
The Harden Verse: More than Just a Name Drop?
In one of the tracks, Drake’s lyrics, “He said if I ain’t watching, then that ni**a ain’t startin. She point to the guy that she talkin’ ’bout and it’s James Harden,” have become a focal point of discussion. Is this a direct diss at Harden, or merely a clever nod? The verse paints a vivid picture, possibly alluding to someone from Harden’s well-known dating history.
There's not a song on Scary Hours 3 better than Away From Home pic.twitter.com/DgYFUdoRmq
— A S (@AnujSha113) November 26, 2023
The Curious Case of “The Sniper”
Intriguingly, fans also perceive a shoutout to Kevin Durant, Drake’s longtime friend, in the same song. Referring to Durant as “The Sniper,” a nickname derived from his Instagram handle, Drake seems to weave a complex narrative intertwining his personal connections with NBA stars.
A Numbered Reference: Harden’s Houston Legacy
Adding to the lyrical maze, Drake’s mention of “13, good god” is theorized to reference Harden’s tenure with the Houston Rockets, where he sported the No. 13 jersey. This intricate layering of references showcases Drake’s skill in embedding sports lore within his music.
Previous Praise for Harden: A Contrast in Tone
Drake’s relationship with Harden isn’t solely based on cryptic lyrics. Back in 2017, following Harden’s historic 53-point game, Drake publicly lauded him, highlighting a camaraderie beyond just musical mentions. His admiration was clear: “My brother scored 53, with 16 (rebounds) and 17 (assists); that’s no coincidence.”
The Star-Studded Trio: Drake, Harden, and Lil Baby
The dynamic between Drake, James Harden, and another prominent rapper, Lil Baby, further enriches this narrative. Known for their camaraderie, there have been instances of the trio engaging in high-stakes gambling, with Lil Baby reportedly losing a significant sum. Their off-court interactions, sometimes making headlines for controversial reasons, add layers to their public personas.
Kevin Durant: From the Court to the Studio
In a notable crossover between basketball and music, Kevin Durant, a star with the Phoenix Suns, took on the role of executive producer for “Scary Hours 3.” This isn’t Durant’s first foray into music production, having previously worked on “For All the Dogs.” His involvement in “Scary Hours 3” signifies a deepening of his collaboration with Drake, blending the realms of NBA and hip-hop in a unique synergy.
Conclusion: A Tapestry of Talent and Controversy
“Scary Hours 3” stands as a testament to Drake’s ability to meld his musical prowess with his passion for basketball. The EP is more than just a collection of songs; it’s a narrative woven through the lives of NBA stars and their intersections with the hip-hop world. As fans dissect each verse, the intrigue surrounding Drake’s lyrics only intensifies, showcasing his genius in crafting stories that resonate both on and off the court.
