It's easy to criticize a fighter when you're not in the ring; until you're in that position, you probably won't understand. A recurring theme this year, at least to me, is that people seem to be struggling to accept their losses. Even those who have the world at their feet can't seem to accept that they're going to take an 'L' now and then.
In Jay-Z's case, if the allegations are categorically false, the courts will handle it. The public will always believe what they want, regardless, so that can't be the reason why he does anything. Furthermore, it can't be the reason any of us do anything; public criticisms can't be responsible for anyone's actions, especially if you have "fuck you" money to fall back on.
In Drake's case, another extremely talented artist is having a run right now, seemingly at his expense. Let him have it; take a breather. You've earned that—it's been 15 years. Let him have his moment; take the 'L' for now. Chill in the cut, make the best music of your life, spend time with your loved ones, and pop up in a year to remind them.
No one close to him is telling Drake that he's done everything at this point? The only thing left is successfully completing your redemption arc. You don't get a redemption arc without failing. The whole world will tune in and anticipate you. It's captivating for them; it gives them something to believe in. You've become so rich and wildly successful that you're basically unrelatable; this is a chance to connect with the common folk again.
I don't know, maybe I'm an optimist, but I just don't see how he doesn't see this as an opportunity.
@seanleon When I heard BLOOD for the first time and the electric guitar came in mann, then the trumpets??? My favourite track on the album rn is EQUINOX but hearing BLOOD for the first time was life changing