Drake:  One Dance

Quiz by Sharon Michiko Yoneda

"Got a Hennessy in my hand." 

"One more time 'fore I go.  Higher powers (addiction) taking a hold on me."

"Higher powers taking hold of me."

Artist:  Drake

Songwriters: Noah Shebib, Aubrey Graham, Errol Reid, Paul Jefferies, Corey Johnson, Kyla Smith, Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, Luke Patrick Reid

Date released:  2016 by Drake

Drake, original name Aubrey Drake Graham, was born on October 24, 1986, in Toronto, Ontario.  He is a Canadian rap musician who first gained fame as an actor on the acclaimed TV teenage drama series, Degrassi: The Next Generation.   Then. he went on to a successful and influential music career. His trademark mixture of singing and lyrical rapping and of braggadocio juxtaposed with raw vulnerability won him a large following.

Considering the intensity of the lyrics of “One Dance” and its tone, Drake may not simply be requesting for 'one dance' from his lover in the literal sense of the word.  Even when the streets are not safe, he never runs away, and even when he is away OT (which is Toronto slang for "Out of Town") is never too much for him.

The track begins with him talking about gripping her waist in different motions, possibly referring to dancing, but more likely signifying their intimate moments. The rapper then expresses how his life is filled with danger and people, particularly those on the streets looking to trouble him, yet he is willing to be loyal to his partner.

In the chorus, the narrator tells his partner that he desires another dance with her, while under the influence of alcohol, before he hits the road again. The second verse sees the artist detailing his journey in his music career, while admonishing his partner to stay with him and not waste time arguing. The song ends with several references to dance moves and motions such as wining and backing up, which may simply signify this dance, or something deeper.

Alternatively, there is a more figurative meaning for "One Dance."  Could 'a one dance' be in reference to a struggle of control with alcohol— 'Got a Hennessy [cognac]in one hand?'   Perhaps alcohol is his intimate partner, and not a woman.    'I have powers taking a hold on me' is a metaphor for addiction which is  taking control of him.   'I pray to make it back in one piece' shows that he knows the alcohol is destroying his life and he is powerless to do anything about it; thus,  'one more time for I go' is a metaphor for one more drink for the road.  Given that Drake is known for his spiritual leanings, he could also be referencing His Higher Power—God—to help him get home safely.