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Vancouver. — Canadian rapper Drake’s new album, “Certified Lover Boy”, which had fans from all over the world buzzing at the weekend, has a special South African connection.

SA-based and Congolese-born musician Tresor is one of the names that contributed to the 21-track offering, joining high-profile artistes Jay-Z, Giveon, Lil Baby, Lil Wayne, Rick Ross, Future, Young Thug, 21 Savage, Masego and Kid Cudi.

Tresor is credited as producer and writer for track 16, ‘Fountains, featuring Nigerian superstar Tems, known for her guest appearance on WizKid’s Essence and Know Your Worth remix by Khalid.

“Working with Drake has been an incredible experience. He’s really kind and warm. His team is also great and they were welcoming. Overall it was a beautiful experience,” Tresor told Sowetan yesterday.

“The song was done in my home studio and I did the production with one of my signees Batundi. I have truly enjoyed the whole experience and the whole journey through music. 

“I wrote a bunch of music and I’m glad that one was particularly made into a song. Tems really brought the music to life and I’m really excited. I think it’s going to be an incredible feeling to see how people enjoy the music.”

Sowetan understands that Tresor was approached by Drake’s Toronto-based record label OVO Sound after dropping his latest offering, “Rumble In The Jungle”. The 14-track collaborative album with Amapiano duo DJ Maphorisa and Kabza De Small, under their sobriquet Scorpion Kings, dropped earlier this year and fused various genres found in Africa.

Since rising to stardom in 2015, Tresor has dominated music charts through music collaborations with the likes of Msaki, Beatenberg, AKA, The Soil, Kwesta, Mafikizolo and Khuli Chana.

His first three albums (VII, The Beautiful Madness and Nostalgia) each scooped a win at the SA Music Awards. 

“This is a milestone achievement for me and my Jacquel Entertainment Group,” Tresor gushed about his record label, management and publishing company working with Drake and his team.

Since dropping the album on Friday, Drake has smashed a number of records. According to American publication, Variety, Certified Lover Boy, is Apple Music’s 2021 most-streamed album within 24 hours. It has also achieved the same feat on streaming platform, Spotify. — Sowetan.