Drake Forfeits Publishing Rights to Release 'Solar Eclipse' Remix

Key points

• Drake gave up his publishing rights for 'Solar Eclipse' to clear the track for official release, according to DJ Akademiks.
• The song was added to the 'HABIBTI (FOMO)' deluxe edition on October 2, 2026, alongside three other unreleased tracks.
• Ella Langley and producer Noel Cadastre now hold the publishing rights, meaning Drake earns no revenue from the track.
• The remix interpolates Langley's No. 1 hit 'Choosin' Texas,' which has generated $13.9 million in U.S. revenue.
• Fans had pressured Drake for weeks via DMs and unofficial uploads after the song premiered in the FOMO film.

Background

Drake's 'FOMO' project, launched in September 2026, was a surreal, self-funded livestream film that premiered new songs and collaborations. The 'Solar Eclipse' remix, featuring Don Toliver, debuted during this stream but was not initially available on streaming platforms. This release follows a year of unexpected projects, including the 'Iceman' and 'Maid of Honour' albums, and marks a shift in Drake's approach to fan engagement and release strategies.

How outlets are covering it

DJ Akademiks framed Drake's decision as a philanthropic gesture to satisfy fan demand, noting that all publishing revenue now goes to Langley and the producer. Billboard emphasized the financial implications, highlighting that Langley's 'Choosin' Texas' has already earned $13.9 million, and that Drake's forfeit ensures the track's release despite the high-profile sample. HotNewHipHop noted that Drake had previously removed footage of Langley from the video, but her clearance of the record suggests no ongoing tension. All sources agree that fan pressure was the primary driver for the release.

Why it matters

This move highlights the evolving dynamics of music rights and fan engagement in the streaming era. By forfeiting publishing rights, Drake prioritized fan access over financial gain, setting a precedent for how artists may handle high-demand, high-profile interpolations. It also underscores the growing influence of fan communities in shaping release strategies, as unofficial uploads and social media pressure can force official releases.

What to watch

The 'HABIBTI (FOMO)' deluxe edition is now available on streaming platforms, and 'Solar Eclipse' is expected to impact charts, particularly in Canada where 'Choosin' Texas' has had a long run at No. 1. Drake's potential 2027 Coachella headline slot and world tour may further amplify the track's visibility. The long-term impact on publishing rights and artist-fan relationships remains to be seen.