Today, rock quintet Arkells shared the video for their new song “Drake’s Dad” from their highly anticipated new album, MORNING REPORT, out August 5 via Universal Music Canada. The video, which features Drake’s dad himself, premiered via Consequence of Sound in the U.S. and via Much.com in Canada. “Drake’s Dad” is based on an actual experience Arkells’ frontman Max Kerman had while visiting Memphis with some friends on a bachelor weekend.
“Last summer I was on a road trip with my best friends through the American south, and in the magic of the night, we happened to meet Drake’s dad – Dennis Graham – in a Memphis bar,” said Kerman. “He couldn’t have been more gracious, especially given that there were 16 of us, drunk on friendship and cheap American beer. This chance encounter inspired this song. The narrative carries on to Nashville for some more shenanigans, and finishes with us all crawling back in to bed back home in Hamilton, very tired and missing our girls. I love writing about the joy of friendship, and the lighthouse that home can be while you’re out lost at sea. ‘Drake’s Dad’ is Elton John meets Kanye West. Southern groove, classic piano changes, 808s, and a gospel choir.”
After writing the song, it only seemed fitting that when the time came to film the video, the crew head back to Memphis and figure out a way to get Drake’s Dad in it. They succeeded in their attempt.
The band would like to thank MuchFACT for their funding support behind this video.
Arkells are thrilled to announce that they will hit the road this fall for a run of North American tour dates in support of Frank Turner, in addition to a select number of headlining dates. The band is currently on tour where they made first-time appearances at Bonnaroo and Firefly Music Festival. The band will also be making a first-time appearance at Lollapalooza tonight and will perform at an official Lollapalooza After Party with The Struts at The Bottom Lounge. More tour dates to be announced soon. For more information on Arkells tour dates and pre-order packages, please visit arkellsmusic.com.
Watch the video for their first single “Private School” from their new album here.
Head Honcho, Editor in Chief and writer here on VENTS. I don't like walking on the beach, but I love playing the guitar and geeking out about music. I am also a movie maniac and 6 hours sleeper.