Rick Ross dismisses Drake’s ‘Iceman’ performance and marketing strategy

Drake is facing renewed criticism from former collaborator turned outspoken critic Rick Ross, who questioned the commercial success of Drake’s recent releases and cast doubt on his streaming performance.

The remarks come as Drake continues a high-profile run of new music, including his latest album Iceman, part of a rapid-release strategy that has kept him active across global music charts and streaming platforms.

Ross addressed the project during a recent appearance on the PBD Podcast, where he delivered blunt remarks about both the music itself and its promotional rollout.

Asked about Iceman, Ross was direct in his response, saying, “It was horrendous,” and claiming that people around him felt they had wasted time listening to the project.

He also took aim at Drake’s marketing approach, pointing to large-scale promotional visuals, including ice-themed installations in Toronto used as part of the album campaign.

“People put ice blocks in the middle of places and promoted and marketed,” Ross said, suggesting the strategy failed to translate into meaningful impact after release.

Ross further argued that despite the album’s visibility, it did not sustain momentum, claiming the project ultimately “folded” after launch.

The discussion escalated when the host asked whether Ross considered Drake to be on his level within the rap industry.

Ross rejected the comparison outright, replying, “No,” and suggesting that public perception of Drake’s success may not reflect reality. “You might be confused with all of the fake numbers,” he said.

He added that if Drake were truly at the level he believes, he would have already addressed ongoing debates around his commercial performance and public image.

The comments add another chapter to the increasingly strained relationship between the two artists, who previously collaborated but have since drifted into public disagreement.