Birdman credits Drake for saving legendary Cash Money Records

Birdman credits Drake for playing a crucial role in keeping Cash Money Records alive during some of its toughest moments The label faced financial and legal struggles but Drake stepped up consistently delivering hits that kept the empire thriving and proving his loyalty in hip hop history.

While some fans argue that Lil Wayne laid the foundation for Cash Money’s dominance, Birdman’s revelation reignited debates across social media, making it clear that the label’s history is as dramatic as its discography. From chart-topping albums to high-profile lawsuits, the journey of Cash Money has always been intertwined with the personal and professional stories of its stars.

In a resurfaced April 2025 podcast clip, Birdman shared his candid thoughts on the artist relationships that shaped the label. Fans and industry insiders alike have been analyzing every moment of the interview, particularly the praise he lavished on Drake.

Birdman credits Drake: a lifeline during hard times

The comments came during Birdman’s appearance on Counsel Culture, a podcast hosted by Nick Cannon, in an episode titled From Blocks to Billions. The show aired on April 23, 2025, and focused on Birdman’s journey from the streets of New Orleans to building a multi-billion-dollar label.

Birdman’s reflections were wide-ranging, touching on mentorship, loyalty, and the complexities of running a hip-hop empire. But it was his declaration that Birdman credits Drake for carrying the label through its hardest times that drew the most attention.

He highlighted a decade-long period when royalties from Drake’s music were tied up in escrow due to legal disputes, referencing the 2015 lawsuit filed by Lil Wayne for $51 million in unpaid royalties. Despite these financial limitations, Drake continued producing hits, ensuring the label remained profitable. “Nobody got money from Drake for 10 years… The money gotta sit in escrow,” Birdman explained.

Birdman continued, “He took it upon himself… Imma take the label and put it on my back… I’mma keep the label going.” He added, “Whatever Drake want, he got… Fuck with him till the end of time.” He even stressed, “Without him, it would’ve been over!”

The billion-dollar impact of Drake, Wayne, and Nicki

In the same interview, Birdman broke down the financial influence of the label’s “Big 3”: Lil Wayne, Drake, and Nicki Minaj. Collectively, their music and tours generated over $2 billion for Cash Money Records. Birdman emphasized that Birdman credits Drake not just for artistic success but for financial survival during escrow disputes and industry challenges.

Drake reportedly received guaranteed advances of $30–$50 million, which Birdman says kept him motivated despite the lack of immediate returns for the label. Lil Wayne’s contributions, particularly during his incarceration in 2010, were also vital, but Drake’s consistent output stabilized the label during a precarious period.

Birdman outlined individual earnings: Lil Wayne roughly $400–$500 million, Drake around $500 million, and Nicki Minaj $300–$400 million, all stemming from a landmark deal with Universal Music Group. In his own words, Birdman credits Drake for ensuring no other artist or executive compromised the label’s operations during the first decade of Drake’s career.

Fan reactions and social media buzz

The clip’s resurgence has triggered online debates across X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Reddit. Many fans hailed Drake as the “MVP” for sustaining Cash Money, particularly during Wayne’s absence. Others argued that Lil Wayne built the foundation first, discovering both Drake and Nicki Minaj and shaping the label’s culture.

Regardless, Birdman’s statement that Birdman credits Drake for stepping up during these challenges has become a viral talking point in the hip-hop community. Comments from fans highlight everything from Drake’s global crossover hits like Thank Me Later to debates over whether Birdman’s loyalty was fair or biased.

Legacy and the future of Cash Money Records

Founded in 1991 by Birdman and his brother Slim, Cash Money has weathered lawsuits, departures, and industry shifts while maintaining a dominant presence in hip-hop. Drake’s signing in 2009 and his OVO Sound partnership have undeniably extended the label’s influence into the streaming era.

Birdman emphasized multiple times that Birdman credits Drake for keeping the label alive and thriving through challenges. His loyalty extends beyond financial considerations to personal and professional respect, cementing Drake’s place in Cash Money’s history.

As debates continue over who truly shaped the label, whether Wayne as the architect or Drake as the savior, the $2 billion legacy of Cash Money Records stands as a testament to resilience, talent, and strategic loyalty. Birdman’s remarks serve as a reminder that behind the music, hip-hop is as much about relationships and trust as it is about hits and charts.