Album leaks are tricky. Sure to the artists, they feel that in a fledgling music market, an album leak only lessens their chances of success in an already flawed system. While music sales barely add to the flavor of an artist’s career these days, it’s still seen as  disadvantageous if the music hits the streets before putting its shoes on. Still, there are positives to this leaking business, but only if the album is actually good. If it’s not, no one will bother to buy it. Keep all that in mind with HipHopDX’s Top Singles List this week. This was by no means an editorial on bootlegging music; this was just another way to say Drake was everywhere on this list. Fear not, though. He did bring some friends with him. On an unrelated but equally important note, Rest In Peace Heavy D. Check out the throwback pick of the week in his honor, and Busta Rhymes closed out our list this week with his tribute to Hev.

Drake Springs a Leak, Andre3000 Returns

As previously mentioned, the internet hit a proverbial goldmine when Drake’s album Take Care leaked in its entirety this week. The album, slated for a November 15th release, was barely under tight wraps as the Drizz voluntarily leaked several tracks of his own. This week, however, more flooded the internet. The biggest hit? “Lord Knows” with Rick Ross. Of all the cuts that circulated, Rozay’s presence made for the most impact. Lord knows what that means. Another win this week was the completed version of “The Real Her.” Previously, the track arrived with just Lil Wayne, which appeared to be enough. Then, Andre3000 appeared on the album’s final version. Sometimes it seems like Private Benjamin is selective with his cameos, but other times not so much. Since he did appear on Wayne’s Tha Carter IV on the “Interlude,” perhaps he’s a fan of the Young Money empire? Either way, he’s on the final version of “The Real Her” and it’s pretty good. Next cameo should be on a Nicki Minaj single. The Homecoming King and Queen of Weirdness might actually pair quite nicely on a track. Take this as an official request, 3000.

The Weeknd Becomes a Cameo King, No Album Yet

It’s unclear what the real relationship is between Drake and The Weeknd. Photos circulated of some DeGrassi class pic with a random kid alongside Drake in his wheelchair with his face circled. That was rumored to be The Weeknd. If that’s true then we know how they met. If not, then maybe it is a true mentor/protégé situation. When The Weeknd’s “House of Balloons” mixtape arrived, everyone was so confused. Here was a guy who sang better than Drake, with a big time Drake co-sign. Then the “Thursday” mixtape came and everyone was really eager for a full fledged Weeknd album. That’s supposed to still arrive soon, as Echoes Of Silence is still slated for a Fall release. Until then, The Weeknd’s been making his presence felt, remixing tracks by Florence and the Machine as well as Lady Gaga. This week, The Weeknd pops up with his moments on Take Care. First it was the track “Crew Love.” Then as an added surprise, it was announced that the song “The Ride” would also be appearing on Take Care. Two for the price of none. Early on, Drake said The Weeknd would be on four Take Care tracks. Somebody’s hiding something.

The Top 10 Most Popular Hip Hop Singles The Week Of 11/07/2011

1. Drake featuring Rick Ross – Lord Knows

2. Drake – Over My Dead Body

3. Drake featuring The Weeknd – The Ride

4. Drake featuring Lil Wayne and Andre3000 – The Real Her

5. Drake featuring Rihanna – Take Care

6. Kid Cudi – To Da Top

7. Drake featuring The Weeknd – Crew Love

8. Meek Mill featuring Rick Ross, Lil Wayne, Swizz Beatz, T.I., Birdman & DJ Khaled – I’ma Boss Remix

9. Drake featuring Lil Wayne – The Real Her

10. Busta Rhymes – You Ain’t Gotta Wait Til I’m Gone (Heavy D Tribute)

 

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