Drake says that he and his producer, Noah “40” Shebib are “commanding” the new Aaliyah album. He also says he will try to involve artists who were “essential in her career.”

Earlier this month, HHUCIT exclusively revealed reports that Drake would be executive producing Aaliyah’s next album. The news was followed by the release of “Enough Said,” indication that the original reports were true. Soon after, Timbaland responded to the news with his take on the situation. Now, Drake has spoken about the project, clarifying his goals for the album and more.

“People should be really excited,” he told MuchMusic. “A lot of people thought “Enough Said” was my single. It’s not my single. It’s all off of an Aaliyah project that me and 40 are commanding.” 

According to Drake, the album will contain approximately 13 or 14 new songs. 

“To get 13-14 new Aaliyah songs, everybody should be excited,” he noted. “It’s not about me. It’s not about 40. It’s about her and her fans and us just getting an opportunity to give you something we feel is great.” 

Drake went on to say he has the blessings from Aaliyah’s family, going against a report from The Guardian. He also shared that he received blessings from her former management and label. Regarding involvement from Timbaland and others who were vital to Aaliyah’s career, Drake said he wants to include more artists in the process. 

“We’re gonna pull in some classic people,” he shared. “Anybody who used to work with Aaliyah or that was essential in her career, we definitely hope to have them involved.” 

More from the interview can be seen below: