0 to 100 / The Catch Up

“0 to 100 / The Catch Up” is a song recorded by Canadian rapper Drake, released on June 1, 2014, through Young Money Entertainment, Cash Money Records, and Republic Records. The track, which fuses two distinct compositions, became one of Drake’s defining releases of 2014. It received widespread critical acclaim and commercial success, earning Platinum certification by the RIAA for over one million digital sales in the United States.

Composition

“0 to 100 / The Catch Up” runs 6 minutes and 8 seconds, with two distinct sections.
The first part, “0 to 100,” is a minimal, hard-hitting hip hop anthem reminiscent of Drake’s earlier single “Started from the Bottom.” Its lyrics emphasize his rapid ascent in the rap industry—“going from zero to one-hundred” as a metaphor for success and dominance.

The second part, “The Catch Up,” shifts in tone, sampling an unreleased track by James Blake. This reflective portion contrasts the braggadocio of the first half, showcasing Drake’s introspection and self-awareness as he declares, “If I haven’t passed you yet, watch me catch up now.”

Production on the track was handled by Boi-1da, Vinylz, Frank Dukes, Nineteen85, and Noah “40” Shebib, all long-time OVO collaborators.

Critical Reception

Upon release, the single received critical acclaim. Billboard listed it among the “10 Best Songs of 2014 (So Far)”, praising Drake’s lyrical delivery and confidence. The publication later named it the Best Rap Song of 2014.

Rolling Stone ranked it in their “50 Best Songs of 2014”, describing it as “six minutes that pan across the entire Drake saga.” Similarly, HipHopDX included it in their Top 10 Singles of 2014, citing its lyrical depth and sonic structure.

At the 57th Annual Grammy Awards, “0 to 100 / The Catch Up” earned nominations for Best Rap Song and Best Rap Performance.

Usage in Media

The track’s influence extended beyond music charts. It featured in a Sprite commercial starring Drake and Nas, promoting the brand’s “Obey Your Verse” campaign that printed hip hop lyrics on cans. One of the campaign’s taglines came from Drake’s lyric: “Know yourself, know your worth.”

The song also appeared in NBA 2K16, often accompanying pre-game cutscenes featuring Stephen Curry, who is referenced in the lyrics. Additionally, it was included in the Madden NFL 25 (2024) soundtrack and referenced in the Canadian comedy series Letterkenny (Season 1, Episode 6).

Remixes and Influence

The instrumental of “0 to 100” became a staple in rap cyphers and freestyle performances. Numerous artists recorded remixes, including Meek Mill, Lil Durk, G-Eazy, Waka Flocka Flame, Stormzy, Remy Ma, Cassidy, Soulja Boy, and the late XXXTentacion.

The beat was also featured in the 2014 BET Hip Hop Awards Cypher, solidifying its place as one of the decade’s most iconic instrumentals.

Personnel

Credits adapted from TIDAL and HNHH:

• Drake – vocals, songwriting
• Boi-1da – production, songwriting
• Vinylz – songwriting
• Frank Dukes – sample production
• Nineteen85 – co-production
• Noah “40” Shebib – co-production, recording, additional drum programming
• James Blake – sample (uncredited)
• Chester Hansen – bass (uncredited)

Chart Performance

Year-end (2014):

• US Billboard Hot 100: #97
• US R&B/Hip-Hop Songs: #29
• US Rhythmic: #37

Certifications

Release History