In an interview with a British magazine, the 'On Your Own' singer expresses her frustration being constantly asked about her relationship with the 'Nonstop' rapper.
- Nov 23, 2018
AceShowbiz - Jorja Smith doesn't want to be seen as Drake's protege as she believes she'd be a star even without his endorsement.
The hip-hop superstar, 32, singled the Brit out for praise in 2016, and Jorja subsequently worked with him in the studio and joined his "Boy Meets World Tour" last year.
However, Jorja, who was named Critics' Choice at the BRIT Awards in February, thinks she would have made it big without Drake's influence.
"I did two tours in America before I was on (mix tape) More Life, and they were sold out," she tells Britain's ES magazine. "I didn't need him. I've already got fans over there."
The 21-year-old is now frustrated people constantly ask her about her professional and personal relationship with the Canadian rapper.
"The annoying thing is that people want to talk more about Drake than me," Jorja complains. "It's always the same: how did you meet him? How did you write? Was it cool working with him? I know that's how it is, for any small artist who works with a bigger artist. You're associated with them, because that's how people find out about you, like clickbait."
Despite her desire to move out of the "Hotline Bling" hitmaker's shadow, the "Lost & Found" singer does concede Drake taught her the value of ambition.
"He wants to be the greatest ever," she explains. "On the Boy Meets World Tour he had a huge light installation, like a sun. He wanted that, so he made it happen. Whatever he wants, he does."
Jorja has already struck up a partnership with another rapper; she and U.K. grime star Stormzy collaborated on a hit earlier this year, "Let Me Down".
