**Singer-Songwriter Drake Finds Connection with Nature Through Trees**
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Drake, the acclaimed singer-songwriter, has discovered a profound appreciation for trees that transcends their mere existence as part of the landscape. The artist, who identifies as a self-proclaimed “tree nerd,” believes that trees embody the stories of ancient civilisations and serve as a testament to the world’s ever-changing nature. His journey into the world of trees began serendipitously when he stumbled upon a familiar species during his time in Istanbul, Turkey.
Drake grew up in Darlington, South Carolina, where he was familiar with American sycamores. However, his experience in Istanbul presented him with a tree that resembled the sycamore he knew yet bore a different name. Known as çınar in Turkish, British sources identified it as a London plane tree or Oriental plane tree. This discrepancy ignited Drake’s curiosity and propelled him into a years-long exploration of trees and their cultural significance.
Years passed and Drake’s curiosity remained a personal endeavour until 2025 when he decided to share his passion with a larger audience. Together with his wife, Lucy, they transformed their backyard into a recording studio, aiming to produce a new song each month. However, Drake felt increasingly uneasy about promoting his music solely through requests for pre-saves and likes, prompting him to seek a different approach to engage with his followers.
During a visit to England in the summer of 2025, Lucy suggested they utilise his love for trees to create a unique video series. This idea quickly took root, leading them to develop “Trees with Drake,” a four-part series that combines tree history with humour. The first episode premiered in August 2025, and they have since garnered over 177,000 followers across social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.
What sets “Trees with Drake” apart is not just the educational aspect but the sheer joy viewers find in the trees themselves. Drake explained, “It’s not about building a brand; people are tuning in to appreciate trees.” Through engaging storytelling and entertaining presentations, he shares the importance of trees in historical contexts, offering viewers a glimpse into their significance over centuries.
Among the various species that inspire him, the cedar of Lebanon holds special meaning for Drake. After encountering one in the southeastern English town of Leigh-on-Sea, he learned about its historical importance and varied uses across ancient civilisations, from providing wood for boats to being integral to Egyptian mummification practices. He shares, “Every tree has historical significance that dates back thousands of years, but the cedar of Lebanon stands out for its wide-ranging importance.”
Drake’s quest for knowledge about ancient trees extends into real-life exploration. This summer, he travelled across England to see notable specimens in person. A highlight was the Crowhurst Yew in Surrey, estimated to be around 4,000 years old and standing majestically in a churchyard. Drake reflects on its spiritual significance, noting the connection between such ancient trees and the early customs of the British people. The history encoded in these living giants has a palpable presence. “When you stand beside an old tree, you gain a sense of depth perception in time,” he explained, as he contemplates the myriad events that have occurred throughout the centuries.
Amid today’s concerning news about climate change, Drake finds solace in these sturdy trees that have weathered the changes of time. He remarks, “When I look at a tree, especially an old one, it gives me comfort. It feels like everything is going to be okay.”
The enthusiasm for trees has also begun to permeate his family life. Lucy, who edits the video content, has developed her appreciation for local flora, and their young son shares in this newfound connection, participating in weekly tree walks. In a touching moment of familial bonding, Drake shares that his youngest son’s first word, beyond the typical “mama” and “dada,” was “tree.”
Looking ahead, Drake is eager to continue his tree adventures and has set his sights on new destinations. At the top of his wish list is Socotra, an island off the coast of Yemen famous for its unique and otherworldly plant life. “The trees on Socotra look like they’re from a different planet,” he enthuses, expressing his anticipation for discovering the exotic flora.
In a world where the focus is often on the fast pace of modern life, Drake’s connection with trees serves as a meaningful reminder of nature’s resilience and the stories held within each trunk and branch. His videos not only celebrate the beauty of trees but also foster a growing community centred on appreciation for the natural world.