Does Drake & Jay Z’ “Pound Cake/Paris Morton Music 2” Live Up To Expectations? Posted by Lucas G. on 09/16/13 | Filed under Drake, Nothing Was The Same, Pound CakeParis Morton Music 2

So, Drake's Nothing Was The Same leaked last night (no shit Sherlock), and while it is still too early for a full, comprehensive discussion, there are already a few things that stand out. We don’t want to inundate you with "Nothing Was The Same" all day everyday for the next week, but we wouldn’t be doing our jobs if we didn’t at least talk about “Pound Cake/Paris Morton Music 2”. The cut, which already has a buzz, will create even more  because of the guest spot from Jay-Z. There aren’t a whole lot of guests on "NWTS" - even the ones on there really groundbreaking - so the highly touted Hov-assisted track will definitely get some attention. I know it’s only been a few hours since the leak, but this cut is already emerging as a standout; is it deserving of the hype?

Short answer yes. Long answer, the hype surrounding it might create some lofty expectations, but with proper perspective, it is hard to be disappointed.  First off, I am dying to know who produced it. The beat, featuring a Wu-Tang chop sprinkled over an atmospheric backdrop, is my favorite part of the song verses included. Even on a cut with Drake and Jay-Z, two of the biggest names in the game, who are notorious for killing beats, I find myself listening to the beat more. The “C.R.E.A.M.” chop is really unique; it is amazing that such a small piece of the puzzle can make the song. As if the production wasn’t intricate enough, the beat completely changes up for the “Paris Morton” section, which is powered by the delicate piano instrumental.

Emcee-wise, “Paris Morton” is probably my favorite part. I am not a big Drake fan, but for the life of me, I will never understand why he gets so much hate and disrespect. I like “Paris Morton” because he seems tackle the hate head on and makes some convincing arguments in his favor. Plus, I think it really ties together the whole rags to riches theme of the album. The approach here, talking about connecting with Wayne, seems like a more humble and honest “Started From The Bottom” and stands out to me in a song chock full of talking points. It reminded me a little of "Last Call" from College Dropout where Kanye finishes the song with a monologue about how he got his start.

So to answer the question, yes I think this song delivers. It isn't an explosive listen or a mind-altering experience, but it is everything you can hope for when two of the biggest names in the game join forces. Drake and Jay didn't try to do too much and the understated, minimalist vibe makes the song even stronger. It doesn't feel out of place, like a single included for nothing more than buzz, instead it works very well as part of the whole album and definitely leaves fans satisfied.

There is a ton to listen to (and talk about) with "Nothing Was The Same", and we'll get there, but “Pound Cake/Paris Morton Music 2” is one of the biggest songs of one of the biggest albums of the year. So what do you think RefinedHype Nation? Did it live up to the hype or fall short?