Live Review: Drake at the 3Arena

Drake is one of the best-selling artists of our time – and deservedly so. The Canadian rapper is one of the hardest working artists in the industry, whether he’s creating mammoth albums or embarking on marathon tours. He treated his adoring Irish fans to a knockout show on Tuesday evening – the first of three highly anticipated performances at Dublin's 3Arena.

When he's not embroiled in feuds with Pusha T and Kanye West, or sparking strange viral challenges, Drake is capable of crafting some spectacular songs, as he demonstrated last night. Although 2018’s double album, Scorpion, was somewhat lacklustre – and his tendency to ‘borrow’ from whatever artist or sound is popular at any given time has garnered increased criticism – it cannot be denied that he has carved a unique space for himself in the music scene, brazenly wearing his heart on his sleeve all the while.

The incredible stage design and lighting almost stole the show on several occasions. The huge platform extended out into the standing area, ensuring that the rapper was constantly surrounded by the crowd and a sea of iPhone torches. While Drake worked his magic, jumping from mega-hit to mega-hit, the stage went through countless transformations, from everything to molten lava to a swimming pool – as well as, at one bizarre point, a functioning basketball court. Although he and the guest he invited onstage missed every basket (Drake blamed it on his sprained thumb) the entertainment value far outweighed the awkwardness. Dancers, a floating car, drones and dazzling projections all added to the brilliant madness.

Landing in the wake of Paddy's Day, Drake was also more than eager to sing the praises of the Irish throughout the show, whether he was giving shout-outs to Conor McGregor, projecting a huge tricolour on the stage, or insisting repeatedly that Dublin is his favourite city to play in the world. The fact that his outfit closely resembled a Luas security guard was probably less intentional.

Revelling in the spectacle, Drake is well aware that he can charge whatever extortionate prices he likes for his tickets – the adoring crowd will show up regardless.